These ancient languages are spoken in the modern times too!
Languages have been an integral part of culture since humans started incorporating them into their lives as a means of communication. However, they do not merely serve the purpose of transferring ideas. They also are vessels which hold culture and art. It is estimated that more than 7,000 languages are spoken in the world today. Over the course of the past centuries, many have disappeared as a result of monopolisation of other popular languages or a lack of measure put in place to preserve them. However, a few have managed to retain their significance in speech as well as writing over the years. Here are 5 ancient languages that are still spoken around the world.
Hebrew
Historians estimate that Hebrew is around 3,000 years old. However, for about two centuries into its existence, it was exclusive. Only scholars and religious leaders preached in it. As a consequence of its lack of usage amongst a larger group of speakers, it died out as a spoken language during the first few centuries of the Common Era. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the world experienced its revival with the rise of Zionism. With nine million speakers around the world today and the official language of Israel, Hebrew is one of the oldest languages spoken in the 21st century.
Sanskrit
Sanskrit, the language of the Vedas, popularly known as the ‘language of Gods’ is known for its beauty and intricacy. It dates all the way back to 2000 BCE and was spoken in Central, South and Southeast Asia. Although its spoken usage has been dwindling, it is still spoken by close to 2 million people in India today. It also forms the basis for many languages such as Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Oriya, etc.
Nahuatl
Nahuatl emerged in the seventh century as the primary language of the Aztec Empire. Ever since then, it has been spoken in central Mexico and is one of the most common indigenous languages in the continent of North America. It is estimated that around 1.5- 2 million people use this language- or at least some form or dialect of it. However, it is dying down with each generation and hence, is considered endangered. English words like chocolate, tomato, avocado, chipotle, coyote, etc. are all derived from Nahuatl.
Greek
Ancient Greece was a land of culture, art and tradition which set the base for many modern fundamental concepts. The language spoken there, Greek, dates to around 1300 BCE. Today, it is spoken all over Greece, the Greek Isles, Turkey and Cyprus. However, it has also retained its place as a part of other European languages. According to linguists, close to 60% of the words in English are derived from Latin or Greek. Although significant, the former is not spoken today. However, the latter is spoken by 12 million people around the world.