A critical study of the Tamil Brahmi insciptions
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: A critical study of the Tamil Brahmi insciptions
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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R. Paneerselvam
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: A critical study of the Tamil Brahmi insciptions
Year: 1972 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5181
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions has highlighted the significance of this ancient script in understanding the early history and linguistic evolution of the Tamil region. Brahmi inscriptions were utilized starting from the Asokan period, reaching as far south as Tamilnad, with distinctive characteristics emerging in the southern variety of the script. This paper offers a critical examination of the Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, focusing on their palaeography, linguistic features, and relevant historical context. It documents the decipherment of inscriptions, which date from the second century B.C. to the fifth century A.D., through detailed analysis contributed by various scholars, including R. Panneerselvam.
Linguistic Distinctions of Tamil Brahmi
An important aspect of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions is their linguistic evolution, which reveals the adaptation of the Brahmi script to accommodate the phonetic qualities of the Tamil language. Unlike the northern Brahmi script, which includes additional letters for voiced and aspirated sounds, the southern variety lacks such distinctions, except for a few. The Tamil Brahmi inscriptions also showcase unique linguistic phenomena, such as shifts from certain sounds (like 's' to 'y') and distinctions in word structure, informing our understanding of early Tamil phonology and syntax. The inscriptions reflect instances of translation from Prakrit into Tamil, particularly in religious contexts, underscoring the bilingual nature of the period.
Historical Importance of Inscriptions
Among the various inscriptions studied, the Pukalur inscription holds significant historical value as it presents a complete genealogy of the Chera kings, showcasing their ruling lineage from the city of Karur. Detailed discussions of these inscriptions reveal connections to contemporary literary sources, providing insights into the socio-political structure of the time and the relationships between different ruling families. Other inscriptions document the contributions of local chieftains, religious figures, and confirm past administrative practices, enhancing the narrative of early Tamil history.
Geographic Distribution and Identification of Place Names
The findings of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions indicate a geographical distribution across various locations in Tamilnad, including sites such as Mankulam, Kilavalavu, and Tirupparankunram. The inscriptions provide important clues for identifying historical place names mentioned in early Tamil literature, contributing to our understanding of the region's cultural and administrative landscape. Specific inscriptions have been linked to prominent Tamil literary references, confirming the locations of poets and significant events, thus linking historical figures to their geographic contexts.
Insights into Cultural and Social Practices
The inscriptions not only announce geographical and genealogical information but also offer insight into the cultural and social practices of the Tamil region during the early centuries. The presence of religious designations, professional titles, and terms indicating kinship reveals a structured society with a rich tapestry of relationship dynamics. Terms associated with Jain and Buddhist practices provide evidence of the religious landscape of the time, while mentions of guilds and the roles of various professional groups suggest sophisticated economic interactions among different communities.
Conclusion
This critical study of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions enriches our understanding of early Tamil history, linguistics, and culture. By documenting crucial developments in the script, exploring language evolution, and connecting inscriptions to historical narratives and geographic locations, this research serves as a vital resource for scholars and students alike. The insights gained from these inscriptions not only illuminate the linguistic and cultural transitions of the Tamil landscape but also underscore the enduring legacy of this ancient civilization.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are Brahmi inscriptions and where are they found?
Brahmi inscriptions are ancient writings in Brahmi script, primarily found in northern India and Tamilnadu. They are written in Prakrit and Tamil, dating from the second century B.C. to the fifth century A.D.
What distinguishes the northern and southern varieties of Brahmi script?
The northern variety of Brahmi includes additional letters for voiced and aspirated sounds, and is more angular. The southern variety lacks these but has extra letters for specific sounds and is more cursive.
How were Tamil Brahmi inscriptions deciphered historically?
K. V. Subramaniya Aiyar first published readings of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, which were later formalized by scholars like I. Mahadevan and Kamil Zvelebil, leading to a better understanding and decipherment of these ancient writings.
What is the primary language of the Tamil Brahmi inscriptions?
These inscriptions primarily use Tamil and Prakrit languages, with many legends translated from Prakrit into Tamil, especially relating to Jain and Buddhist themes.
What kind of social information do the inscriptions provide?
The inscriptions reveal various social and cultural aspects, including names of dynasties, personal names, occupations, and place names that aid historical and geographical identification.
What is the significance of the Pukalur inscription?
The Pukalur inscription is notable as it offers a complete genealogy of the Chera kings, enhancing our understanding of the political and familial structures in ancient Tamilnadu.
What phonetic changes in Tamil are noted in these inscriptions?
The inscriptions demonstrate a change of 's' into 'y' and 'c' in Tamil, as seen in various inscriptions, reflecting linguistic evolution over time.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “A critical study of the Tamil Brahmi insciptions”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Tamil:
The Tamil language is one of the Dravidian languages, predominantly spoken in Tamil Nadu in southern India. The Tamil Brahmi inscriptions are written in this language and provide significant historical and cultural insights.
2) Brahmi:
Brahmi is an ancient script used in India, notably during the period of Asoka and later. In Tamil Nadu, inscriptions in Brahmi script have been found, revealing historical and linguistic developments.
3) Antai:
Antai refers to a sage or great man in the context of the Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. For example, 'antai ariyti' could be translated as 'the great man Ariyti.'
4) King:
The term 'king' appears in the inscriptions, referring to ancient rulers. In the Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, 'koon' and 'koo' denote a king, such as 'perunkatunkoon'.
5) Merchant:
The merchant class is frequently mentioned in the Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. Various terms like 'vanikan' and 'kaaviti' denote merchants, indicating the social structure of the time.
6) Charity:
Charity is a recurring theme in Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, often linked with the verb 'taana' or 'dhamam'. They record donations and endowments by significant individuals.
7) Jain:
Jain monks and great men are often referenced in Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. Terms such as 'amannan' identify Jain monks, suggesting the presence and influence of Jainism.
8) Prakrit (Prakrt):
Prakrit was a language used in northern India and appeared in inscriptions from the Asokan period. Some Tamil Brahmi inscriptions seem to contain translations from Prakrit.
9) Tana:
Taana frequently appears in the context of charity within the Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. It signifies an act of giving or endowment
10) Korra:
Korra appears in the inscriptions as part of personal names, for instance, 'kiiran korra.' It could denote a specific individual or role [see source text or glossary: Korra].
11) Pali (Palin):
Pali, in this context, refers to an abode or monastery, particularly in Jain or Buddhist references, as seen in phrases like 'pali-iy'
12) Akam:
Akam represents a type of early Tamil literature, part of 'Canka ilakkiyam,' which includes poems focusing on love and personal themes
13) Katalan:
Katalan is a personal name mentioned in Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. For example, 'katalan valuttiy' refers to a servant of Netuncaliyan [see source text or glossary: Katalan].
14) Nalli:
Nalli is a place name found in inscriptions, e.g., 'nalli-uur,' which can be linked with regions mentioned in early Tamil works
15) Koti (Kôti):
Koti is associated with giving in the context of the inscriptions. Words like 'koti-oor' denote individuals or groups who made donations
16) Goldsmith:
Goldsmiths are part of the societal professions mentioned; for instance, 'pon kolavan,' indicating a person who worked with gold
17) Servant:
The term 'servant' appears in references such as 'katala-an,' indicating someone who served under a king or other noble
18) Kuvira:
Kuvira is a personal name from the inscriptions, denoting significant individuals. An example phrase is 'kuvira antai cey-a taana'
19) Nampan:
Nampan appears in the inscriptions in the context of a good man or friend, such as 'elutu nampan vattan'
20) Natti:
Natti is another personal name referenced in the inscriptions, as seen in 'karu-uur pon vaanikan natti'
21) Karur:
Karur is a significant ancient city in Tamil Nadu, often mentioned in inscriptions, particularly in relation to the genealogy of the Chera kings
22) Cloth:
Cloth appears in the inscriptions as 'aruvai,' referring to textile material, as in 'aruvai vaanikan' for a cloth merchant
23) Titi (Dhithi):
Titi, as in 'titi-il,' denotes a place name linked to individuals in the inscriptions, indicating their origin or residence
24) Atan:
Atan appears as a name element in the inscriptions, examples include 'aatan ceellirumporai,' pointing to royal or noble persons
25) Sage:
Sages or great men are denoted by 'antai,' highlighting respected figures in the society recorded in the inscriptions
26) Kun:
Koon is a term for king, used to denote rulers in Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. Examples include 'perunkiiran'
27) Spiritual:
Spiritual terminology appears, such as 'antai' meaning sage or great man, indicating religious and social leadership
28) Language:
Tamil and Prakrit languages are key in these inscriptions, reflecting the linguistic diversity of ancient India
29) Candy:
Candy, mentioned as 'paanita,' suggests types of occupations and commerce. It appears in 'paanita vaanikan'
30) Caste:
Caste terms like 'iila' for tree climbers appear in inscriptions, denoting social classes and professions
31) Karu:
Karu is part of place names like 'karu-uur,' indicating a specific location referenced in Tamil Brahmi inscriptions
32) Kuva:
Kuva as a name appears frequently, referring to notable individuals. Phrases include 'kuva antai cey-a taana'
33) Kolu:
Kolu denotes tools, such as 'kolu vanikan,' meaning ploughshare merchant, an important occupation
34) Salt (Salty):
Salt is referred to as 'uupu,' a significant item in trade and daily life. Mentioned in contexts like 'uupu vaanikan'
35) Thiruparankundram (Tirupparankunram, Tirupparankundram):
Tirupparankunram is a place where inscriptions have been found, providing historical and cultural insights of the region
36) Carpenter:
Carpenter, mentioned as 'tacan,' highlights various professions identified in the inscriptions
37) Preceptor:
The term 'nampan' can imply 'preceptor' or good man, indicating roles within the society in the inscriptions
38) Natrinai (Narrinai):
Narrinai is an early Tamil literary work referenced indirectly in the analysis of place names and professions
39) Village:
Village, denoted as 'uur,' frequently appears in place names like 'karu-uur,' indicating residential areas
40) Grammar:
Grammar analyses of the inscriptions reveal structures like participles and tenses, showcasing linguistic features of the period
41) Dynasty:
Dynasties such as the Chera, Pandya, and others are frequently mentioned, indicating ruling families
42) Family:
Family names and relations, such as 'perunkatunkoon makan,' show genealogical details in the inscriptions
43) Indian:
Indian refers to the broader context encompassing these inscriptions, reflecting the cultural and historical landscape of India
44) Pandya (Pamdya, Pandyan):
Pandyan turns up frequently, especially concerning the ruling dynasty and associated figures in the inscriptions
45) Madra:
Madra signifies the location of the Department of Archaeology involved in these studies
46) Atana:
Atana denotes a charity or endowment act, such as 'aatana-a taana' found in inscriptions
47) Makal:
Makal refers to 'daughter,' seen in genealogical records like 'pitantai makal kiiran korra'
48) Stone:
Stone inscriptions or 'kals' refer to the medium on which these writings are found, mentioned in 'arutta kal'
49) Sound:
Sound refers to phonetic elements in the analysis, particularly differences in voiced and aspirated sounds in northern and southern scripts
50) Cera:
The Chera dynasty is documented in inscriptions, evidencing political and territorial influences in the region
51) Kura (Kura°):
Kura refers to a roof or mat, used in contexts like 'kura kotupitavan' referencing constructions
52) Kani:
Kani indicates a personal name or title in the inscriptions, e.g., 'kani-i nata siriy'
53) Tree:
Tree often denotes professions or castes related to agriculture or climbing, like the 'iila,' meaning tree climbers
54) Kuruntokai:
Kuruntokai, part of early Tamil literature, is used in identifying and comparing personal names in the inscriptions
55) Genealogy:
Genealogical details in these inscriptions include family lines and lineage, explaining the ruling hierarchy
56) Residence:
Residence terms like 'uraiyul' identify places of living, seen in inscriptions such as 'kunratuu-uraiyul'
57) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
Buddhist references are less frequent but coexist with Jain and other religious mentions in the inscriptions
58) Lexicon:
The lexicon section in the study lists all known words from the inscriptions, providing translations and grammatical notes
59) Aratta:
Aratta is a personal name found within the inscriptions, such as in 'attuvaayi aratta'
60) Kotala:
Kotala refers to a mat or roof material, used in 'kura kotala ku-ittavan'
61) Nature:
Nature of letters and script features are discussed, such as the use of dots in Tamil grammar rules
62) Pittan:
Pittan is an important name in genealogical records, e.g., 'pitan kurummakal kiiran noori'
63) Maran:
Maaran appears as part of personal names, indicating titles or family names in the inscriptions
64) India:
India forms the broader cultural and historical context where these Tamil Brahmi inscriptions were found
65) Siri (Shiri):
Siri means auspicious, found in context phrases like 'nanla-a siriy'
66) Pana:
Pana, seen in 'pana-an,' refers to a servant, indicating roles within the social structure
67) Nata:
Nata refers to a spiritual preceptor, as seen in 'kani-i nata siriy kuva'
68) Mani:
Mani denotes a gem or someone who deals with gems, such as 'maniy vannakkan'
69) Aman (A-man):
Aman identifies Jain monks in the inscriptions, such as 'aman yaarruur'
70) Ilam (Eelam):
Ilam denotes 'young,' as an adjective in phrases like 'ilam'
71) Gold (Golden):
Gold is a significant item, especially in professions, denoted by 'pon' in phrases like 'pon kolavan'
72) Northern India:
Northern India refers to the geographical scope for Prakrit-Brahmi inscriptions, contrasting with those found in Tamil Nadu
73) New Delhi:
New Delhi is the location where some research, including that by I. Mahadevan, was based
74) Patirruppattu (Pathitrupathu):
Patirruppattu is part of early Tamil literature referenced for historical context in the study
75) Mullaippattu:
Mullaippaattu, another work from Tamil literature, provides narrative context for personal names and places
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 102]