Why do we prostrate before parents and elders?

Man stands on his feet. Touching the feet in prostration is a sign ofrespect for the age, maturity, nobility and divinity that our elderspersonify. It symbolizes our recognition of their selfless love for usand the sacrifices they have done for our welfare. It is a way of humblyacknowledging the greatness of another. This tradition reflects thestrong family ties, which has been one of India's enduringstrengths.The good wishes (Sankalpa) and blessings (aashirvaada) of elders arehighly valued in India. We prostrate to seek them. Good thoughts createpositive vibrations. Good wishes springing from a heart full of love,divinity and nobility have a tremendous strength. When we prostrate withhumility and respect, we invoke the good wishes and blessings of elders,which flow in the form of positive energy to envelop us. This is why theposture assumed whether it is in the standing or prone position, enablesthe entire body to receive the energy thus received.The different forms of showing respect are :Pratuthana:Rising to welcome a person.Namaskaara:Paying homage in the form of namasteUpasangrahan:Touching the feet of elders or teachers.Shaashtaanga:Prostrating fully with the feet, knees, stomach, chest, forehead andarms touching the ground in front of the elder.Pratyabivaadana:Returning a greeting.Rules are prescribed in our scriptures as to who should prostrate towhom. Wealth, family name, age, moral strength and spiritual knowledgein ascending order of importance qualified men to receive respect. Thisis why a king though the ruler of the land, would prostrate before aspiritual master. Epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata have manystories highlighting this aspect.