Classical Languages

Prakrit & Pali: All You Need to Know About the Newly Designated Classical Languages

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Prakrit and Pali have been recognized as Classical Languages for their immense historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. They played a crucial role in the spread of heterodox religions like Buddhism and Jainism and shaped Indian thought, philosophy, and literature.

Introduction What Does “Classical Languages” Mean? Prakrits: Language of the People Prakrit as a Family of Languages Major Prakrit Dialects Pali: The Language of the Buddhist Canon The Pali Canon: Tipitaka The Pali Canon is divided into three categories, or pitakas (“baskets”): The importance of Pali lies in its ability to preserve the teachings of … Read more