New Insights into Sogdian Language from the 'Ancient Letters
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Sogdian notes
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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P. O. Skjærvø
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Sogdian notes
Year: 1976 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5148
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
1. Introduction
The article by P. O. Skjaervo focuses on new interpretations of words found in the Sogdian text known as the 'Ancient Letters' (AL). The groundwork for understanding these texts has been established by scholars like H. Reichelt and W. B. Henning. Skjaervo proposes new readings and meanings for various Sogdian words and ideograms, revising previous interpretations in light of grammatical and contextual analysis.
2. Interpretation of "Hope" in Sogdian
One significant concept discussed is the Sogdian interpretation of the word for 'hope.' Skjaervo examines the phrase "prmy nwkh" from AL III, suggesting that it can be connected to the Parthian word "frmnywg," meaning 'hope.' This connection allows for the translation of the text as indicating a loss of hope: "I have become without hope towards you." The analysis extends to the Buddhist Sogdian term "myn(')y," found in the Vessantara Jataka, where it conveys related meanings of hope and expectation. Skjaervo also relates this term to occurrences in other Sogdian texts, advocating for a consistent understanding of this hopeful connotation across various contexts.
3. Revising the Sogdian Ideogram
Another key concept is the identification of the Sogdian ideogram "L," traditionally equated with the Pahlavi ideogram "R." Skjaervo contests this reading, arguing that it should be interpreted as "D" and associated with the Sogdian preposition "pr" (meaning 'to'). He provides evidence from several instances within the AL where the ideogram's meaning fits the proposed reading of "L" as "pr." This investigation not only clarifies the usage of the ideograms in these letters but also supports a broader understanding of the grammatical structure of Sogdian, enabling insights into its developmental scriptural nuances.
4. Conclusion
In conclusion, P. O. Skjaervo's article offers valuable new interpretations of Sogdian words and ideograms found in the Ancient Letters, contributing significantly to Sogdian studies. By redefining the meanings of concepts like 'hope' and reassessing the nature of Sogdian ideograms, Skjaervo enhances our understanding of this historical language and its texts. Such efforts to clarify these ancient writings serve not only to preserve linguistic heritage but also to illuminate cultural and philosophical insights from the Sogdian world.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of P. O. Skjaervo's article?
P. O. Skjaervo's article discusses new interpretations of words in the Sogdian 'Ancient Letters' based on previous research by Reichelt and W. B. Henning.
How does the article interpret the Sogdian word for 'hope'?
The article suggests that the words 'prmy nwkh' in AL III can mean 'without hope' and connects the term to the Parthian word 'frmnywg,' indicating a loss of hope.
What is the significance of the ideograms in the 'Ancient Letters'?
Skjaervo proposes that the ideogram L should be interpreted as the Sogdian preposition 'pr', shedding light on the structure and meaning of phrases in the 'Ancient Letters'.
Does the article make any claims about the letter forms used?
Yes, the article claims that the merging of the letters r and cain occurred before the 'Ancient Letters', suggesting that some distinctions were being lost in script evolution.
What conclusions does Skjaervo draw about the word 'ronk'?
Skjaervo theorizes that 'ronk' may represent 'ºLZK', indicating a definite article governing the accusative, thus providing clarity on its usage in the 'Ancient Letters'.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “New Insights into Sogdian Language from the 'Ancient Letters�. 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) Hope:
In the Sogdian texts, 'hope' is interpreted from the word 'myny'. It suggests expectation and is seen in the context of wishing or hoping for a particular outcome, such as in the sentence 'and I have become without-hope towards you'.
2) Future:
The word 'future' is linked to the term 'psycykh' in Sogdian. This can be seen in the context where the Sogdian phrase 'He abandons his future hope' indicates leaving one's aspirations for the future behind.
3) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: Pari]
4) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
The term 'Buddhist' occurs in relation to Sogdian texts such as the Vessantara Jataka, where words related to hope and expectation also appear, demonstrating the relevance of these concepts within Buddhist narratives.
5) Vessantara Jataka (Vessantara-jataka):
The Vessantara Jataka is a Buddhist text where the Sogdian word for 'hope,' 'myn(')y,' is found frequently. This text is instrumental in defining 'hope' within Sogdian language in a religious narrative context.
6) Vessantara:
[see source text or glossary: Vessantara]
7) Camphor:
In the Sogdian text AL VI II. 5 sq., 'camphor' is referenced in the context of trading materials. The term KPWR is identified as meaning camphor, and it plays a part in illustrating the trade practices mentioned in the letters.
8) Jataka:
[see source text or glossary: Jataka]
9) Fire:
The word 'fire' is used in a Sogdian sentence translated as 'fire was lighted in his palace and in his town.' This implies fire's destructive capabilities and its relevance in Sogdian literature.
10) Gold (Golden):
'Gold' in Sogdian texts, such as in AL IV 1.3, relates to trade or value transactions, as indicated by 'the gold was sold for 800.'
11) Evolution:
The discussion on the script's evolution mentions the convergence of the letters 'r' and 'cain' in written Sogdian, showing the development of writing forms over time and their influence.
12) Existence:
[see source text or glossary: Existence]
13) Grammar:
Grammar is referenced in the context of interpreting Sogdian words, such as 'hope,' 'future,' and ideograms. The text cites specific grammatical rules from GMS (A Grammar of Manichaean Sogdian) to explain text interpretations.
14) Copper:
'Copper' appears in AL IV 7 sq. in context of reminding someone about copper. The English word 'copper' translates the original Sogdian context concerning material value or trade.
15) Light:
The word 'light' in the text relates to the lighting of a fire, as in the passive statement: 'fire was lighted in his palace,' indicating ignition or illumination.
16) Cycle:
[see source text or glossary: Cycle]
17) Book:
Several books and publications are referenced, such as GMS, studies by Henning, and texts like the Vessantara Jataka. Each book is a source for interpreting and understanding Sogdian language and literature.