The origin of the brahmi and tami scripts
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: The origin of the brahmi and tami scripts
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The paper analyzes the origins of the Brahmi and Tamil scripts, focusing on their historical and linguistic developments. The Brahmi script, the earliest evidence of which appears in the stone edicts of Emperor Ashoka from the third century BCE, is thought to have predated its Buddhist usage, suggesting that it may have been in existence for several centuries prior. The author, Egbert Righter, hypothesizes that the variations in Brahmi letters and their forms over time indicate a connection to earlier scripts, rather than being solely a product of Ashoka's reign. The relationship between Brahmi and the Indus Valley script is considered significant in understanding the evolution of these writing systems.
Connections between Scripts: Brahmi and Indus Valley
One crucial concept discussed in the paper is the connection between Brahmi script and Indus Valley pictographs. Righter explores the possibility that Brahmi letters were derived from Indus signs through an acrophonic method, where the initial sounds of words corresponded to more frequently used pictograms. This method shows similarities to the development of other writing systems, such as the Semitic script by the Phoenicians. Righter highlights that Brahmi script may have spiritual significance, as both Brahmi and later scripts like Devanagari were considered holy due to their association with ancient traditions and their use by religious practitioners. The author attempts to link the structure of the Tamil script to these same origins, albeit with distinct characteristics that reflect the ornamental nature of the Tamil language.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Righter presents compelling arguments suggesting that both the Brahmi and Tamil scripts have deep historical roots connected to Indus Valley writing. He posits that the evolution of these scripts reflects a continuity of cultural and linguistic practices in ancient India. The discussion around the spiritual dimensions of these scripts underscores a broader theme of intuition in ancient thought, which Righter believes contrasts sharply with contemporary rationalism. The paper calls for a reconsideration of the significance of these scripts in understanding not only linguistic origins but also the cultural heritage of the regions they represent.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Egbert Righter
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: The origin of the brahmi and tami scripts
Year: 1993
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the historical significance of Brahmi script?
The Brahmi script is considered one of the oldest writing systems in India, evidenced by stone edicts of Emperor Ashoka from the third century BCE. It likely had a longer history prior to its use in these edicts.
How are Brahmi and Tamil scripts related?
Both the Brahmi and Tamil scripts are derived from Brahmi. While Brahmi has a divine origin associated with rituals, Tamil script evolved in the 7th century and reflects the ornamental nature of the Tamil language.
What evidence relates Brahmi script to Indus Valley inscriptions?
The Brahmi script may have derived its letters from Indus Valley pictograms using the acrophonic method, suggesting a connection between the two writing systems. This indicates the spiritual and cultural continuity from the Indus Valley to later Indian traditions.
Which languages primarily used the Brahmi script?
Brahmi was mainly used for writing Prakrit and Pali, especially in Buddhist contexts. However, scholars believe it also had applications in Sanskrit, as evidenced by artifacts and inscriptions that integrate Hindu cultural elements.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The origin of the brahmi and tami scripts”. 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 Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Indu (Imdu):
Indu is often associated with the goddess and can reference the Indus Valley civilization. This connection implies a cultural and historical significance, linking scripts and symbols from ancient civilizations to contemporary understanding and interpretations of spirituality and language in South Asia.
2) Brahmi (Brāhmī):
Brahmi is one of the oldest scripts used in ancient India, and it serves as a foundation for many subsequent scripts, including Devanagari and Tamil. The Brahmi script bears great historical importance as it represents the written form of languages spoken in India, linking past and present cultures.
3) Veda (Vedā):
The Veda refers to ancient sacred texts of Hinduism, containing hymns, rituals, and philosophies. The relevance of the Veda in the context of Brahmi inscriptions indicates a strong cultural transmission of divine knowledge and spiritual practices, affirming the timelessness of these ancient traditions.
4) Reason:
Reason symbolizes logical thinking and rationality, which has evolved over the centuries alongside human understanding. The text argues for a return to more intuitive ways of thinking based on historical script origins, suggesting a balance between rationality and ancient spiritual insights.
5) Kali (Kālī, Kāli, Kāḻi):
Kali represents a powerful aspect of the divine feminine in Hinduism, often associated with destruction and transformation. Her invocation in inscriptions reflects the cultural significance of goddesses in ancient Indian spirituality and the perceived sacredness of offerings made to her.
6) Kundalini (Kuṇḍalinī, Kundalinī, Kumdalini):
Kundalini is an enigmatic spiritual energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. Its connection to yoga and spiritual awakening emphasizes the ancient understanding of human consciousness, bridging rituals, practices, and the sacred significance of sound and script in spiritual pursuits.
7) Sarasvati (Sarasvatī):
Sarasvati, the goddess of knowledge and arts, is traditionally seen as a divine figure related to the invention of scripts. In this context, her association with Brahmi underscores the importance placed on written language as a means of intellectual and spiritual development in Indian culture.
8) Varuna (Vāruṇā, Vāruṇa, Varuṇa, Varunā):
Varuna, a Vedic deity associated with the sky and cosmic order, signifies the connection between divine authority and natural law. In the context of inscriptions, invoking Varuna reinforces themes of protection, balance, and divine guidance in spiritual practices and rituals.
9) Thirst:
Thirst symbolizes a deep yearning or craving, often referencing both physical and spiritual needs. In the inscriptions, the use of the term evokes a desire for sustenance, enlightenment, and spiritual fulfillment, illustrating the holistic approach to basic human needs in ancient cultures.
10) Rudra (Rudrā):
Rudra is a significant Vedic deity representing storm and the fierce aspect of Shiva, connecting notions of chaos and creation. His mention in texts reflects the duality of existence, as well as the reverence and ritualistic complexities associated with divine worship in ancient traditions.
11) Gupta (Guptā):
The Gupta period is a significant era in Indian history, known for advancements in arts, science, and literature. The connection to Brahmi script during this time highlights the cultural flourishing that occurred, fostering a rich tradition of knowledge and spiritual expression in Indian civilization.
12) Rama (Ramā, Rāmā, Rāma):
Rama is a central figure in Hindu epics, symbolizing dharma, virtue, and the triumph of good over evil. His reverence in ancient inscriptions illustrates the integral role of heroes in cultural narratives, further linking spiritual ideals to the societal values of virtue and righteousness.
13) Pali (Pālin, Palin, Pālī, Pāli):
Pali is a Middle Indo-Aryan language closely associated with Theravada Buddhism. Its mention emphasizes the linguistic diversity of ancient texts and reinforces the idea that multiple languages and scripts coexist, communicating spiritual teachings and cultural narratives across varied traditions.
14) Testimony:
Testimony refers to tangible evidence or records of beliefs and practices. In the scholarly exploration of ancient inscriptions, it underscores the value of deciphering and understanding historical documents as a means to recover and validate spiritual and cultural heritages.
15) Pingala (Piṅgalā, Piṅgala, Piṅgāla, Pimgala):
Pingala relates to the 'nadi' system in yogic philosophy, representing the solar energy channel that parallels the left-sided lunar 'ida.' The mention in the context enhances the understanding of spiritual practices, emphasizing the integration of body and energy in achieving higher consciousness.
16) Channel:
Channel refers to pathways for energy flow or communication. In this context, it symbolizes the interconnectedness of spiritual practices, as well as the channels through which knowledge and cultural significance are transmitted across generations, bridging divine wisdom with human experience.
17) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world. Within this text, its connection to ancient spiritual practices underscores a dual respect for empirical understanding and mystical traditions, advocating a holistic approach to knowledge that encompasses both rational and intuitive insights.
18) Caraka (Cāraka, Cārāka):
Caraka refers to an ancient Indian scholar attributed to foundational works on Ayurveda. This connection showcases the importance of holistic health practices in Indian culture, linking wellness to spirituality and broader philosophical frameworks that stem from ancient traditions.
19) Pavana (Pavanā, Pāvana):
Pavana means both air and fire in Sanskrit, symbolizing dual aspects of life and spirituality. This term's significance in context suggests the interconnected nature of elements in spiritual practices and how they define the essence of being, identity, and the universe.
20) Ushana (Ūṣaṇa, Uśana, Uśanā, Uśānā, Uṣaṇa):
Ushana refers to the sun or light, often symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment. Its relevance in inscriptions illustrates the pursuit of higher understanding and wisdom within ancient communities, underscoring the synergy between celestial influences and human spiritual aspirations.
21) Ashoka (Asoka, Aśoka, Aśokā, Asokā):
Ashoka was a significant ancient Indian emperor known for his promotion of Buddhism and the dissemination of its teachings. The reference highlights the cultural influence of his reign on script development, political ideology, and the philosophical evolution of spiritual discourse.
22) Shiva (Śivā, Sivā, Śiva, Siva, Sīva):
Shiva is a principal deity in Hinduism, embodying transformation and duality. His association with creation and dissolution links him deeply to the themes of spirituality, thereby illustrating the multifaceted nature of divinity in ancient texts and ceremonies that invoked his presence.
23) Trish (Tṛṣ):
Trish may refer to thirst or a longing, embodying human desires or spiritual cravings. Its exploration indicates an awareness of existential needs and similarities in ancient cultures' approaches to addressing the deeper longings present in human hearts throughout history.
24) Water:
Water symbolizes nourishment, life, and purification in various spiritual contexts. In ancient inscriptions, its mention underscores the idea of sustenance and cleansing, both physically and spiritually, implying a necessary balance between earthly elements and celestial aspirations.
25) Raja (Rāja, Rājā):
Raja denotes a king or ruler, representing authority and governance in ancient societies. The inclusion of this term conveys the significance of leadership roles in maintaining spiritual practices and cultural traditions, essential for societal cohesion and moral guidance.
26) Yoga (Yogā):
Yoga is a holistic practice aimed at integrating body, mind, and spirit, deeply rooted in ancient Indian philosophy. Its mention in the context suggests the significance of spiritual practices in achieving enlightenment, self-realization, and harmony within oneself and with the cosmos.
27) Nadi (Nādi, Nadī, Nāḍī, Nādin, Nāḍi, Nadin):
Nadi refers to the subtle channels through which prana (life energy) flows in the body according to yoga and Ayurvedic traditions. Its mention highlights the intricate understanding of energy systems in ancient spirituality, emphasizing the connection between physical health and spiritual well-being.
28) Hand:
Hand symbolizes action, creation, and the human element in rituals. Its mention may reference the practical aspects of spiritual practices, illustrating the physical methods by which ancient individuals expressed devotion, community, and the sacred in their daily lives.