I’m confused.
How does quoting from a Hindi sacred text, that conveys a philosophy that is in complete agreement with Christianity - in any way placing another god before God?
If I greet a Hindi practioner, and say “Namaste” - in your view, am I being blastphemous? I would say not. There are good ideas found in many religions - that ‘invent’ new ways to praise God in everyday life, that we have either abandoned or never considered.
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“In Sikh scripture Namaste, Namastung or Namastvung is referenced as salutation to the Primal being, the One God. The salutation is followed by an attribute respecting a quality of the creator of all religions, Akal. Sikhs say “Sat Sri Akaal” instead of namaste .
In Nepalese culture, namaste is performed when a younger family member meets older relatives. It also varies depending upon social status and prestige. The person with lower status or prestige performs namaste first to show respect for the higher station the other person has achieved.
Namaste is also used as a friendly greeting in written communication, or generally between people when they meet. When used at funerals to greet the guests, the verbal part is usually omitted. When the hand position is higher, it usually means reverence and/or worship. The expression with hands placed on top of one’s head is usually the sign of utmost reverence or respect. When the gesture is performed with hands in front of the chest, it is usually considered as aayushman.
The aayushman gesture is also a cultural symbol of Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan hospitality.
In Sindh, Pakistan, the gesture of namaste, though extremely rare, is still maintained even by Sindhi Muslims.
The cabin crews of Air India, SriLankan Airlines — and Air France, Emirates and Virgin Atlantic on their flights to India — use namaste to greet boarding and deplaning passengers and in other hospitality settings.”
Well the arguement could be made if it was a quote or not...damage control in Catholicism is renowned as we know. However Christianity is not a "philosphy" nor should be aligned with those whose are. Rather as Christians we called to stand for the truth and oppose false teachings and religions...just as Christ did.
The problem is increased for the Popes push to unite the various religions...which this act supports as does others he has performed...and will continue do so as he marches the catholic church toward a one world religion. Along with this the deceptions the masses will be under and for that follow. Catholics are wired to to follow their leadership...even against their own common sense.
I would probably check with the more spiritually tuned in Christians in that culture before I decided.