Phonetic and Semantic Similarities Between the Vedda Language and the Tripitaka (Pali) Language: An Exploration of Historical Linguistic Connections Author: Mahanthimulla Gamage Sarath Kumara Affiliation: Independent Researcher ORCID: 0009-0001-2144-6533
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: 1. IntroductionThe linguistic history of Sri Lanka is highly complex and multi-layered. Two primary linguistic streams demand special attention in this context:1.The Vedda Language: The indigenous language of the Vedda (Wanniyalaetto) people of Sri Lanka.2.The Pali Language: The sacred language in which the Buddhist Tripitaka scriptures are preserved.Traditionally, Western linguistics has treated these two languages as entirely unrelated. However, when viewed through the lens of native speaker intuition and a deep understanding of the local linguistic environment, remarkable phonetic and semantic similarities emerge between the two. Western scholars have historically prioritized "Sanskrit" (a refined, constructed language) over "Prakrit" (a natural, organically evolved language), often misclassifying the natural linguistic evolution of the region. This paper seeks to bridge this gap by exploring the deep-rooted connections between Vedda and Pali.2. Research Problem and ObjectivesResearch Problem:Do phonetic and semantic similarities exist between the Vedda language and the Pali language? If so, what do these similarities indicate about their historical linguistic relationship?Objectives:1.To identify words in the Vedda and Pali languages that share similarities in both meaning (semantics) and sound (phonetics).2.To analyze the linguistic basis of these similarities.3.To explore the profound truths revealed by native speaker intuition, moving beyond rigid Western linguistic classifications.
Language: English
Subfield: Language and Linguistics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225040659