Something that has really caught my attention over the years is the meaning of words in different languages. We have had a few examples from the Bhagavad Gita regarding how some words in from the Hindu language like "Bhrama" mean more then the English language can allow us to describe.
I think it is beautiful how different languages have words that carry such heavy meaning. As an American I can never relate to such words because I am held back by such a limited language. Is it because our language is only suited to communicate about materials and literal meanings? Or is it because our language is so new compared to languages that Hindus or Italians or the French use? Because our language is so new it had the capability to center around something the people of that time thought was crucial, to be literal. Although I do believe that is important, I don't believe it's the most important. I believe it is important to have words that reach way beyond, it gives texture and richness to a conversation.
Maybe it is something we can not recognize as of now. When someone looks back at our time they will look at context and words will have a new dimension to them that we have never though of. Interpretation will always produce a bias.
ReplyDeleteEnglish is a glorious mutt of a language, as nuanced and expressive as any in the history of the world. There's nothing wrong with your native language, but there is something terribly, terribly wrong with not knowing at least a couple others. Different languages aren't just different sets of code for the same things and ideas -- they actually shape our understanding of the world into DIFFERENT things and ideas, which is hugely liberating and fascinating.
ReplyDeleteSo be sure to study other languages and the cultures and times in which they are embedded. But first, please TURN OFF WORD VERIFICATION!
That is a very interesting way of looking at the question Raj, thank you.
ReplyDeleteProfessor, I will make sure to figure out how to turn it off!! But your interpretation of the question is very interesting as well. I know Spanish and do not plan to stop there!