Sanskrit Education Beyond India: Why These Countries Teach Sanskrit in Schools
While Sanskrit is an ancient Indian language with a rich tradition, it is fascinating to see how this language is being taught in schools across the world. Countries outside of India are increasingly incorporating Sanskrit into their educational systems, recognizing its value in linguistic, philosophical, and cultural aspects. This article explores why certain international schools choose Sanskrit as a subject in their curriculum and how it benefits their students.
St James' Schools, London
St James' Schools in London, from age 4 to 18, offers Sanskrit as a subject in its curriculum. According to Warwick Jessop, the head of the Sanskrit department, the language provides excellent linguistic training for the children. The scriptures of Sanskrit are not just historical texts; they are full of profound philosophical concepts that enrich the students' understanding and appreciation of different cultures and ideologies. Warwick emphasizes that teaching Sanskrit is not only about language but also about gaining access to a wealth of philosophical thought that has spanned centuries.
Erasmus School of Primary Education, Melbourne
At the Erasmus School of Primary Education, students from pre-primary to grade 6 have the opportunity to study Sanskrit. Acting Principal, Dr. Sally Barnes, explains that Sanskrit is the oldest known language, and it forms the foundation for many modern languages, including English. By learning Sanskrit, children gain a deep understanding of the origins of the language and are inspired by its beautiful and pure sounds, which they begin to recite from their first year of schooling. Dr. Barnes underscores the importance of recognizing Sanskrit as having a perfect system of grammar, which sets it apart from other ancient languages.
John Scottus Dublin School
The John Scottus Dublin School, which caters to both primary and secondary students, sees the value in teaching Sanskrit for several reasons. According to Mr. Christopher O'Malley, the school's principal, Sanskrit embodies qualities such as precision, flexibility, and a rich, uplifting effect on both mind and soul. The subject provides a broad scope of knowledge, covering areas like Ayurvedic medicine, psychology, yoga, vedic math, rhythm, music, dance, etymology, grammar, and methods for self-knowledge. Mr. O'Malley highlights that the structured grammar of Sanskrit, including letters, words, and sentence compositions, is unparalleled. The term 'Samskrit' literally means 'made completely,' emphasizing the perfection of the language.
Additionally, the influence of Sanskrit extends beyond language, often referred to as the 'language of the gods.' It challenges the mind in an age where we are overly reliant on technology and less inclined to engage in critical thinking and linguistic precision. This makes Sanskrit a powerful tool for mental development and the production of harmonious and rich speech.
Philosophy Day School, New York
At the Philosophy Day School in New York, students ranging from nursery to fifth grade study Sanskrit. The school's philosophy, as articulated by Head of Department Dr. Matthew Arnold, is that Sanskrit is an astonishingly ordered and beautiful language, making it an excellent tool for developing the mind. The grammar of Sanskrit is incomparable in terms of comprehensiveness and refinement. Moreover, the introduction of Sanskrit in kindergarten through its unique alphabet system, which is scientifically ordered, broadens the linguistic skills of children significantly.
Dr. Arnold also points out that Sanskrit literature, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata, provides an unparalleled wealth of knowledge, including profound scripture, subtle philosophy, voluminous mythology, and exquisite poetry. The study of Sanskrit allows students to engage with these works at a young age, fostering a deep appreciation for ancient wisdom and literature.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Sanskrit in non-Indian educational institutions is a testament to its enduring value and relevance. Whether through its linguistic beauty, philosophical depth, or cultural significance, the study of Sanskrit offers a unique and enriching experience for students. Schools around the world recognize the benefits of teaching Sanskrit, and as awareness of its importance grows, it is likely that more and more educational institutions will integrate this ancient language into their curricula.