Question

What is the role of the Sanskrit language in Hinduism? Does it matter that the much of the form of Sanskrit in which the Vedas have been written has been lost?

Answer 1

• Sanskrit is one the oldest religious languages in Hinduism.Mostly,all the religious texts have been written in Sanskrit and till today,those mantras are chanted in the same way they have been written,in hindu festivals and marriages.
• Sanskrit is considered sacred in Hinduism,since it is considered to be a language of communication between God and humans.Indo-Aryans used this language to connect with God.
• Vedic Sanskrit is found in the scared texts called the Vedas,especially the Rig Veda.During the period of 1000 to 500 BC,Sanskrit was considered as the main language for verbal and written communication,which is why it was used to write all the religious texts.
• Sanskrit has had a vast history and impact on Hinduism,and has created an impact on Hindi language which is more commonly used in India,as their national language.Sanskrit is a pure form of language which is why it is not used anymore,for the purpose of understanding ot communicating.
• But all the religious texts,which are studied by priests are studied in Sanskrit.Though,religious texts are made available to people,is translated into either Hindi or English.
• Most ancient Vedic texts have also been lost,and most retained,but I dont think it undermines the importance of Sanskrit.Its impact not just on Hinduism os tremendous,but also on other religions like Buddhism,Jainism etc.So even if some Vedic texts have been lost,Sanskrit has not lost its importance especially in religious studies.
• Though socially,Sanskrit has lost its popularity,since it is difficult to decipher and people needed a more simple language,which is why Hindi came into existence.But people who study Hinduism and various religious texts,study them in Sanskrit.