Why Study Sanskrit? | Warwick Jessup

Sanskrit is an ancient language, close to the source of all Indo-European languages.

Many Sanskrit words have come directly into the English language.

Warwick Jessup gives a few reasons why someone might study this fascinating language. Sir William Jones pointed out to the west the importance of the Sanskrit language. This language has 'a wonderful structure, more perfect than the Greek, more copious than the Latin, and more exquisitely refined than either'. It also has a beautiful script and sound.

Many English words have Sanskrit roots, such as in the example of statue, stand, still constant, station - all from the Sanskrit root sthā. Every Sanskrit word starts with a root, and then has prefixes and suffixes added.

Take the example sthitaprajña meaning the person of excellent, steady wisdom. Investigating a word like this uncovers its deep meaning. This can also give a spiritual practice - one can attempt to be a person of steady wisdom!

The School of Philosophy and Economic Science offers courses in practical philosophy and economics with justice as well as other subjects. It aims to approach philosophy in a practical way, encouraging students to apply philosophy in their lives. The School also introduces a mindfulness-type exercise leading eventually to mantra meditation.