Understanding the meaning and significance of words
Students of Sanskrit discover that words have a systematic structure based on precise rules. Each word has a root, or dhātu, to which prefixes and suffixes are added. Each part of the word structure is meaningful. Taking all these aspects into account requires careful attention and brings both mental and emotional powers into play.
Roots/dhātus - learners come to realise that meaning is specific, but understanding can be subtle, with unexpected depth and range. For example, hari is a name, but it is based upon the dhātu hṛ meaning ‘to carry’, ‘steal away’; when applied to a person, or god called Hari, it can imply ‘support’, and/or ‘one who steals away the hearts of his devotees’.
Suffixes/pratyayas - a good example of suffixes is the system of seven case endings, vibhakti, which indicate the role of a noun in sentence – whether it is the subject, object, instrument, recipient of the action, that from which the action proceeds or with which it is related, and the time or place of the action. Similarly, verbs use suffixes which designate who is performing an action and how many actors are involved – one, two or many! Recognising the importance of these word endings at an early stage builds up the power to discern the basic meaning of a sentence with confidence, leaving the mind free to look more deeply into meaning – particularly useful later on when meeting such texts as the Bhagavad Gita.
The miracle of human communication
Learning that each letter of a word is important in conveying the intended meaning emphasises the importance of clear, accurate speech. A student of Sanskrit learns quickly that lengthening an ‘a’ at the end of a word, for instance, can change the gender. Not writing or pronouncing a visarga (breath) at the end of a word can change the meaning or cause confusion of meaning. These are simple examples, but they show how Sanskrit can help to highlight the miraculous, incredible nature of human communication and begin to create a love and respect for language.
The power of pure sound
The pure Sanskrit sounds cultivate many aspects of emotional intelligence. Chanting demands continuous attention, allowing the release of anxiety and unnecessary thought. The appreciation and experience of the special sounds of Sanskrit can be calming, inspiring and completely freeing. A rise in self-awareness can influence students individually and collectively, promoting harmony and increasing receptivity.
Learning and understanding other languages
As Sanskrit is the basis of most Indo-European languages, an understanding and experience of this system of grammar prepares the student for learning other related languages, many of which still reflect the original Sanskrit system. This includes Classical languages such as Greek and Latin, Indian regional languages, and modern languages such as French and German.
Sanskrit grammar is also reflected in English. Realising this encourages students to look more deeply into the language, beginning to understand words more fully rather than simply using them as ‘labels’. Compounds used for place-names are one simple example, being governed by the same rules of interpretation: Oxford – ‘having a ford for oxen’; Cambridge – ‘having a bridge over the river Cam’. The roots of many words can also be traced back to Sanskrit, e.g. ‘stand’, ‘stay’, which are based on the Sanskrit dhātu sthā ‘to stand; to be intent upon; to exist, be present; to stay quiet; to rest on’. E.g., Eng.’bear’ based on dhatu bhṛ ‘to bear, carry, convey; support, maintain, cherish’.
Clarity of articulation of one’s own language is an important benefit which springs from the practice of Sanskrit vowels and consonants. Refined listening, both to oneself and others, is also developed through this practice, and is a vital skill which is essential for good communication in all situations and at all ages.
Practical teaching tips
· Translate Sanskrit sentences into English or own language
· Analyse words to point out dhātu and main endings
· Hold recitation competitions based upon fine literary extracts
· Encourage composition of simple Sanskrit sentences
Next time: Nurturing the mathematical/scientific aspects of mind through Sanskrit
Helen Harper www.sanskritatstjames.org.uk
