N.L. Westergaard: Pioneer of Iranian and Indian Studies (1815-1878)
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: N.L. Westergaard 1815-1878
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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Elisabeth Strandberg
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: N.L. Westergaard 1815-1878
Year: 1978 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5124
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
Niels Ludvig Westergaard (1815-1878) was a pivotal figure in the fields of Iranian and Indian studies. As noted by Ernst Windisch, his contributions to the understanding of Vedic literature and historical studies remain relevant today. However, many of Westergaard's important works were written in Danish, resulting in their minimal exposure to the broader scholarly community. This article highlights significant aspects of Westergaard's work and delves into the reasons behind his later decision to write primarily in Danish, isolating himself from the international academic landscape.
2) The Foundation of Westergaard's Work
Westergaard's scholarly journey began in his youth, influenced by Rasmus Kristian Rask. Further education in Bonn under notable scholars like Christian Lassen and August Wilhelm von Schlegel enriched his expertise in Sanskrit, Avesta, and Persian. His travels from 1841 to 1844, including extensive research in Persia and India, facilitated his groundbreaking publications, notably "Radices Linguae Sanscritae," which advanced Western understanding of Sanskrit grammar. Other significant works included "Bundehesh" and "Zendavesta," which contributed to his reputation as a key figure in the study of ancient Indian and Iranian texts.
3) Shift to Specialized Focus
Post-1854, Westergaard’s scholarly focus shifted towards Indian history, leading to the publication of significant historical studies in Danish, such as "Contributions to the history of the Indian countries Malwa and Kanyakubja." This period marked a notable departure from his earlier, more internationally engaged research, as he began to concentrate on local historical narratives and sources. Despite the high standards of his work during this phase, the choice to write solely in Danish limited his audience and engagement with the global scholarly community.
4) Personal and Political Motivations
The decision to isolate his work in Danish can be attributed to various personal and political factors. The political climate in Denmark was tense due to the Slesvig-Holsten controversy, which fostered a sense of nationalism and isolationism. Additionally, the death of his wife in 1856 profoundly affected Westergaard, compelling him to shift his focus towards raising their children. This personal loss, combined with the political environment, led him to dedicate his efforts toward Danish cultural and intellectual pursuits rather than international collaboration.
5) Decline in Correspondence with Global Scholars
Westergaard's correspondence with prominent scholars dwindled in the mid-1850s, demonstrating his withdrawal from the international academic discourse that once characterized his career. While he maintained sporadic communication with a few colleagues, the interactions turned primarily non-scholarly and were often focused on Danish matters. Even when the correspondence resumed later, it rarely involved discussions of his earlier prominent works, highlighting the extent of his withdrawal from the global academic stage.
6) Conclusion
In summary, Niels Ludvig Westergaard's contributions to Iranian and Indian studies remain significant, even as they were overshadowed by his later choice to write predominantly in Danish. His journey reflects the intersection of personal loss, political nationalism, and an evolving academic landscape that shaped his scholarly output. While his earlier work laid a foundation for future scholarship, the isolation he experienced in his later years serves as a poignant reminder of how personal circumstances and political contexts can influence an intellectual's trajectory and legacy.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
Who was N. L. Westergaard and what were his contributions?
N. L. Westergaard was a pioneer in Iranian and Indian studies. His significant works include studies on Sanskrit grammar and ancient Indian history, particularly focusing on dynasties and cultural exchanges.
What inspired Westergaard's interest in Indo-European comparative philology?
Westergaard became interested in Indo-European philology through Rasmus Kristian Rask, his teacher, who held the Chair of Oriental Languages, inspiring him to pursue studies in this field.
What were Westergaard's major publications in Iranian studies?
One of Westergaard's major publications is 'Om den anden eller den Sakiske Art af Achaemenidernes Kileskrift,' which analyzes Achaemenid cuneiform writing and remains little known in scholarly circles.
What led Westergaard to write primarily in Danish in later years?
Political tensions over Slesvig-Holsten and the loss of his wife led Westergaard to isolate himself and focus on Danish publications, disconnecting from international academic discourse.
How did Westergaard's publications change over time?
Westergaard's early works (1841-1854) were published in English and German. Following personal tragedies, his later works (1854-1878) were predominantly published in Danish, directed towards a smaller audience.
What was the nature of Westergaard's correspondence with other scholars?
Westergaard's correspondence dwindled in the 1850s, primarily ceasing with prominent figures, owing to political sentiments and personal loss. His later letters focused less on academic issues.
What subjects did Westergaard focus on in his later writings?
In his later writings, Westergaard concentrated on Indian history, particularly studying Indian dynasties and their connections, while displaying a distinct turn toward nationalism.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “N.L. Westergaard: Pioneer of Iranian and Indian Studies (1815-1878)”. 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) Nasik:
Nasik is the site of several inscriptions related to the Ksaharata Dynasty, where many pieces of historical data about rulers like Nahapana and Usavadata were found. [see source text or glossary: Nasik]
2) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is an ancient language used in several inscriptions at Nasik, including the oldest known Sanskrit inscription in the cave donated by Usavadata. [see source text or glossary: Sanskrit]
3) Indian:
Indians were the local populations among whom the Ksaharata and other dynasties ruled. Scholars like Westergaard contributed extensively to the study of Indian history and its ancient scripts. [see source text or glossary: Indian]
4) Dynasty:
The Ksaharata Dynasty was one of the ruling families in ancient India, recognized by inscriptions, and was later overthrown by Gautamiputra. [see source text or glossary: Dynasty]
5) Satrap:
A Satrap was a provincial governor in ancient Persia, a title adopted by Indian rulers like Nahapana, indicating the foreign influence in their administrative titles. [see source text or glossary: Satrap]
6) Brahman:
Brahmans were a high caste in Indian society, receiving significant donations from Usavadata in terms of villages and cows as recorded in various inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Brahman]
7) Cave:
Caves were religious sites often donated to monks; Usavadata donated caves at Nasik, where significant inscriptions were found detailing the donations. [see source text or glossary: Cave]
8) Ushavadata (Usavadata):
Usavadata was the son-in-law of Nahapana and a significant figure who made numerous donations to both Buddhists and Brahmans, as recorded in various inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Usavadata]
9) Nahapana:
Nahapana was a ruler from the Ksaharata Dynasty, referred to in various inscriptions and known for his titles of rajan and ksatrapa. [see source text or glossary: Nahapana]
10) Prakrit (Prakrt):
Prakrit is a vernacular language of ancient India used in many inscriptions found at Nasik, associated with the Ksaharata Dynasty. [see source text or glossary: Prakrit]
11) India:
India is the geographical and cultural setting for the historical events and dynasties discussed by Westergaard in his various studies. [see source text or glossary: India]
12) Malaya:
Malaya refers to a region or people mentioned in the inscriptions, involved in a conflict that Usavadata intervened in. [see source text or glossary: Malaya]
13) River:
Rivers such as the Barnasa are mentioned in inscriptions as sites where Usavadata performed acts of religious significance. [see source text or glossary: River]
14) Karle:
Karle is the site of an inscription by Nahapana, written in Prakrit, contributing to our knowledge of the Ksaharata Dynasty. [see source text or glossary: Karle]
15) King:
Various Indian kings, including those from the Gupta and Ksaharata dynasties, were the focus of Westergaard's historical research. [see source text or glossary: King]
16) Kshatrapa (Ksatrapa, Kshatra-pa):
Ksatrapa is a title used by rulers like Nahapana, of Persian origin, signifying their role as provincial governors or lesser kings. [see source text or glossary: Ksatrapa]
17) Family:
The Ksaharata Dynasty, a ruling family, had members such as Nahapana and his son-in-law Usavadata, who are mentioned in various inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Family]
18) Shaka (Saka):
The Saka is an era used in ancient Indian inscriptions, possibly first adopted by the Ksaharata Dynasty. [see source text or glossary: Saka]
19) Book:
Book refers to the studies authored by Westergaard, contributing significantly to the fields of Indian and Iranian studies. [see source text or glossary: Book]
20) Gautamiputra:
Gautamiputra was the king who destroyed the Ksaharata Dynasty, as mentioned in historical records. [see source text or glossary: Gautamiputra]
21) Language:
Language, specifically Prakrit and Sanskrit, played a crucial role in the inscriptions studied by Westergaard. [see source text or glossary: Language]
22) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
Buddhist denotes the religious affiliation of monastic communities that received donations from Usavadata, as per the inscriptions at Nasik. [see source text or glossary: Buddhist]
23) Suvarna:
Suvarna refers to gold, used by Usavadata in many of his donations to Brahmans and religious institutions. [see source text or glossary: Suvarna]
24) Village:
Villages were among the gifts given by Usavadata to Brahmans, as detailed in several inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Village]
25) Mula:
Mula, particularly Nadigerana mula, is a term found in inscriptions referring to the financial donations or gifts given by Usavadata. [see source text or glossary: Mula]
26) Consecration:
Consecration, or abhiseka, was a religious ceremony that Usavadata underwent, possibly signifying a role of great honor. [see source text or glossary: Consecration]
27) Kanyakubja (Kanya-kubja):
Kanyakubja is one of the ancient Indian regions whose history was detailed in Westergaard's later works. [see source text or glossary: Kanyakubja]
28) Generosity:
Generosity describes Usavadata's numerous donations to both Buddhist and Brahman communities. [see source text or glossary: Generosity]
29) Dashapura (Dasapura, Dasha-pura, Dashan-pura):
Dasapura is an ancient Indian town mentioned in the inscriptions that detailed Usavadata's donations. [see source text or glossary: Dasapura]
30) Pushkara (Puskara):
Puskara, or modern Pokhar, is a holy lake where Usavadata received his consecration. [see source text or glossary: Puskara]
31) Grammar:
Grammar of languages such as Sanskrit was a significant area of contribution by Westergaard, as demonstrated by his works like Radices Linguae Sanscritae. [see source text or glossary: Grammar]
32) Tirtha:
Tirtha refers to a holy bathing place; Usavadata constructed such a site at the river Barnasa called Suvarna-dana-tirtha. [see source text or glossary: Tirtha]
33) Chair:
Chair refers to the academic position that Westergaard held at the University of Copenhagen in Sanskrit studies. [see source text or glossary: Chair]
34) Govardhana (Go-vardhana):
Govardhana is one of the places where Usavadata made donations and ordered the excavation of a cave. [see source text or glossary: Govardhana]
35) Prabhasa (Prabhasha):
Prabhasa is another holy site where Usavadata made donations, as mentioned in the inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Prabhasa]
36) Kahapana:
Kahapana is an ancient currency; Usavadata purchased land for the monks at Nasik using 4,000 Kahapanas. [see source text or glossary: Kahapana]
37) Dahanuka:
Dahanuka is one of the locations mentioned in the inscriptions, possibly referring to a town or region. [see source text or glossary: Dahanuka]
38) Warrior:
Warrior refers to the Uttamabhadraka kings that Usavadata helped liberate as recorded in Nasik No. 17 inscription. [see source text or glossary: Warrior]
39) Rajan:
Rajan is a title equivalent to 'king,' used by Nahapana, a member of the Ksaharata Dynasty. [see source text or glossary: Rajan]
40) Simha:
Sinha refers to a younger Satrap dynasty that ruled after the Ksaharata in almost the same region. [see source text or glossary: Sinha]
41) Brihat (Brhat):
Brhat refers to the Brhat Samhita, an ancient Indian text that mentions towns relevant to Westergaard's studies. [see source text or glossary: Brhat]
42) Kunde (Kumde, Kundé):
Westergaard's works such as 'Zur Entzifferung der Achamenidischen Keilschrift' were published in journals like 'Zeitschrift fur die Kunde des Morgenlandes'. [see source text or glossary: Kunde]
43) Malwa:
Malwa is one of the regions whose history Westergaard explored in his work on Indian dynasties. [see source text or glossary: Malwa]
44) Light:
Light is metaphorically used to refer to the new knowledge brought by Westergaard’s scholarly contributions. [see source text or glossary: Light]
45) Surata (Surat, Su-rata, Shurata):
Surat is identified as a modern name for the ancient town Sorparaga, significant in the Ksaharata inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Surat]
46) Dina:
Dina may refer to 'day' or 'sad,' and appears in the text discussing Usavadata's gifts to Brahmans and monks. [see source text or glossary: Dina]
47) Rock:
Rock refers to the medium in which inscriptions were engraved, such as the ones found at Nasik caves. [see source text or glossary: Rock]
48) Gold (Golden):
Gold, or Suvarna, was frequently donated by Usavadata to religious institutions and Brahmans. [see source text or glossary: Gold]
49) Suvarnatirtha (Suvarna-tirtha):
Suvarnatirtha is an alternative name for the Suvarna-tirtha, the holy bathing site established by Usavadata. [see source text or glossary: Suvarnatirtha]
50) Mahakshatrapa (Mahaksatrapa, Maha-kshatrapa):
Mahaksatrapa is a more exalted title than Satrap, held by Nahapana, indicating a higher level of authority. [see source text or glossary: Mahaksatrapa]
51) Bharukaccha (Bharu-kaccha):
Bharu-kaccha denotes the ancient region and town, modern Broach, involved in Usavadata's donations. [see source text or glossary: Bharu-kaccha]
52) Possession:
Possession indicates the lands and villages that Usavadata owned and later donated to religious groups. [see source text or glossary: Possession]
53) Discussion:
Discussion refers to scholarly debates and correspondences, often disrupted due to political tensions as observed in Westergaard’s letters. [see source text or glossary: Discussion]
54) Yajurveda (Yajur-Veda, Yajus-veda):
Yajurveda is an ancient Indian text briefly mentioned in the context of etymological discussions. [see source text or glossary: Yajurveda]
55) Shurparaka (Surparaka):
Surparaka refers to an ancient town that is identified with modern Surat, as mentioned in the Ksaharata inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Surparaka]
56) Knowledge:
Knowledge embodies the understanding and insights gained from studying historical inscriptions and texts, essential to Westergaard’s work. [see source text or glossary: Knowledge]
57) Foreigner:
Foreigners like Nahapana and other Saka rulers held administrative titles like Satrap, indicating their non-Indian origin. [see source text or glossary: Foreigner]
58) Abhisheka (Abhiseka):
Abhiseka is a ritual of consecration or royal initiation performed on Usavadata at Puskara. [see source text or glossary: Abhiseka]
59) Kekapura (Keka-pura):
Kekapura is an ancient town mentioned in the Nasik inscriptions, though its exact location remains uncertain. [see source text or glossary: Kekapura]
60) Mountain:
Mountain refers to regions like Malaya, significant in the inscriptions as locations of Usavadata’s military campaigns. [see source text or glossary: Mountain]
61) Marriage:
Marriage is inferred from references to Usavadata's role as Nahapana’s son-in-law and his wife Dakhamitra mentioned in inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Marriage]
62) Kanishka (Kaniska):
Kaniska was an Indo-Scythian ruler, and the inscriptions of his era possibly used in dating the reigns mentioned in Westergaard's studies. [see source text or glossary: Kaniska]
63) Barnasa:
Barnasa is a river where Usavadata established the Suvarna-tirtha, a holy bathing place. [see source text or glossary: Barnasa]
64) Kanheri:
Kanheri hosts another ancient site with inscriptions from the same era, likely studied by Westergaard. [see source text or glossary: Kanheri]
65) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut, or narikera, is discussed in connection to terms like 'Nadigerana mula' found in inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Coconut]
66) Release:
Release refers to Usavadata’s mission to free Uttamabhadra as mentioned in the Nasik inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Release]
67) Caraka:
Caraka refers to a wandering Brahman student, mentioned in an inscription by Usavadata which reflects his generosity. [see source text or glossary: Caraka]
68) Andhra (Amdhra):
The Andhra dynasty was responsible for overcoming the Ksaharata Dynasty, led by king Gautamiputra. [see source text or glossary: Andhra]
69) Parshad (Parsad):
Parsad means assembly or congregation, referenced in the context of Usavadata's donations in Nasik inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Parsad]
70) Throne:
Throne alludes to royal authority and power, as in Usavadata’s possible consecration ritual. [see source text or glossary: Throne]
71) Nagara (Naga-ra):
Nagara means town or city, mentioned in several inscriptions detailing the donations of Usavadata. [see source text or glossary: Nagara]
72) Vatsa:
Vatsa-sagotra identifies a Brahman family reference in one of the Junnar inscriptions related to the Ksaharata Dynasty. [see source text or glossary: Vatsa]
73) Bhaya:
Bhaya seems to refer to a gift or donation, specifically mentioned in inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Bhaya]
74) Daman:
Daman is another location associated with the rivers and regions mentioned in the inscriptions. [see source text or glossary: Daman]
75) Gupta:
The Gupta Dynasty is another significant ruling family explored in Westergaard’s historical studies. [see source text or glossary: Gupta]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 99]