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Significance of Apabhramsha

Apabhramsha is understood in various contexts within ancient Indian linguistic studies. Vyakarana defines it as a corrupt form of language, diverging from its original word. In Mahayana, it refers to a dialect derived from Sanskrit, often linked to Buddhist texts. Kavyashastra highlights Apabhramsha as an elegant language form noted by Rajashekhara, essential to Kavya, acting as a bridge between Sanskrit and vernacular languages. Overall, Apabhramsha signifies a crucial evolution in the linguistic landscape of ancient India.

In Dutch: Apabhramsha; In Finnish: Apabhramsha; In Spanish: Apabharamsha

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Apabhramsha'

Buddhism Books

Apabhramsha in Buddhism is interpreted as a language or dialect that evolved from Sanskrit, serving as a medium for later Buddhist texts, reflecting the linguistic diversity and cultural evolution within ancient Indian Buddhism.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) Another one of the four great canonical languages, notable in the context of ancient Indian literature.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Apabhramsha'

Hinduism Books

Apabhramsha in Hinduism is viewed as a dialect connecting Sanskrit to vernacular languages, signifying linguistic corruption from original terms, while noted for its elegance and depth in linguistic discussions, as highlighted by Rajashekhara.

Significance in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):
Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) The specific term used to refer to a corrupt form in language, indicating its deviation from the original word.[2]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.