Sabda Reader: Language in Classical Indian Thought

Language played a central role in classical Indian philosophical thought, and A Śabda Reader provides a comprehensive and pedagogically valuable treatment of this topic. It illuminates issues such as how Brahmanical thinkers understood the Veda, how Buddhist thinkers assigned importance to languages, how Jains saw language, and how words affect thought.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2019
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Language, a central yet often overlooked aspect of classical Indian philosophical thought, holds a profound significance. Foundational thinkers delved into profound inquiries regarding the nature of language, its relationship to reality, the composition and essence of linguistic units, and their ability to convey meaning. They also explored the role of language in interpreting sacred writings, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping philosophical ideas.

A Śabda Reader, the first comprehensive exploration of language in classical Indian philosophy, emerges as a valuable resource for both scholars and students. This groundbreaking work brings together newly translated passages by authors from diverse traditions, including Brahmanical, Buddhist, and Jaina schools of thought. Through these passages, readers gain insights into various perspectives on language, including how Brahmanical thinkers interpreted the Veda and conceptualized Sanskrit, how Buddhist thinkers assigned importance to languages that connect to phenomenal reality, how Jains viewed language as purely material, the possibility of self-contradictory sentences, and the profound impact of words on thought.

What sets A Śabda Reader apart is its recognition of the profound influence of linguistic presuppositions and implicit notions about language on philosophical discourse. The volume demonstrates that these underlying assumptions often hold equal weight to explicit ideas and formal theories, shaping the way in which thinkers approached language and its role in understanding the world. By contextualizing the texts and ideas within their historical and cultural frameworks, the reader gains a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of classical Indian thought.

In conclusion, A Śabda Reader serves as a groundbreaking contribution to the study of classical Indian philosophy. By presenting a comprehensive and pedagogically valuable treatment of language, the volume deepens our understanding of the philosophy of language and its profound impact on classical Indian thought. This work will be of immense interest to scholars, students, and anyone seeking to explore the intricate relationship between language, reality, and the pursuit of knowledge in ancient India.

Weight: 848g
Dimension: 188 x 261 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231189408