Significance of Sanskritization
Sanskritization, as understood in Mahayana Buddhism, involves the adaptation of terms or concepts into Sanskrit, potentially indicating that Tathagata originated from a Prâkrit form. In the context of Indian history, Sanskritization describes two main processes: first, the incorporation of Sanskrit vocabulary and structures into the Bengali language, which complicates comprehension and influences literary progress; second, the enhancement of languages like Hindi with Sanskrit vocabulary, resulting in greater accessibility and regional standardization.
Synonyms: Hinduization, Cultural elevation, Social mobility, Cultural assimilation, Cultural adaptation, Cultural integration
In Dutch: Sanskritisering; In Finnish: Sanskritisaatio; In Spanish: Բپó
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sanskritization'
Sanskritization in Buddhism involves adapting or translating terms and concepts into Sanskrit, indicating that certain key ideas, like Tathagata, may have roots in Prâkrit language forms, reflecting a cultural integration within Buddhist teachings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The process through which terms or concepts are translated or adapted into Sanskrit, suggesting that Tathagata may have originated from a Prâkrit form.[1]
The concept of Sanskritization in local and regional sources
Sanskritization involves the enrichment of languages like Hindi and Bengali with Sanskrit vocabulary, enhancing accessibility and standardization, while also complicating understanding and influencing literary development due to the adoption of Sanskrit structures.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The gradual process by which lower social classes adopt the values and lifestyles of higher social classes, often leading to social change.[2] (2) The process of adopting Sanskrit vocabulary and structures within the Bengali language, which complicates understanding and affects literary development.[3] (3) The process through which languages like Hindi have been enriched with Sanskrit vocabulary, making them more accessible and standardized across regions.[4]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Zysk’s account of the later Sanskritization and Brahmanization of the human marks in the Puranas and Nibandhas—as mediated by Varahamihira—also follows such a line of inquiry.[5]