Independent Schools At the Root of European Languages www.stjamesschools.co.uk Why Sanskrit? Parents often ask why we teach Sanskrit at St James. Sanskrit stands at the root of very many eastern and western languages, including English and most other European languages, classical or modern. Its study illuminates their grammar and etymology. Here are a few answers... Innumerable English words can be shown to derive from forms still extant in Sanskrit. SANSKRIT ROOTS: Sanskrit Root: Sanskrit Word: Latin: French: English: dau - give dauna - gift donum - gift donner - to give donate, dose, dedicate, etc. Sanskrit Root: Sanskrit Word: Latin: German: English: sthau - stand still sthaunam - resting place sto - I stand stehen - I stand stand, steady, stool, staff etc. Sanskrit Root: Sanskrit Word: Latin: German/French: English: vah - carrying vauhana - vehicle veho - I carry Wagen - waggon vehicle, vein, etc. All be happy. All be without disease. All creatures have wellbeing. None have misery of any kind. An Education in Beauty A New View of the World A Matchless Literature Sanskrit is full of beauty: beauty of sound, of structure, of script, of poetry and of prose. Such beauty opens the heart. Sanskrit literature expresses a refreshing and unique view of human nature and purpose. Sanskrit has one of the richest and most extensive literatures of all known languages. It introduces children to vast epics, profound scripture, subtle philosophy, voluminous mythology, exquisite poetry and much else. A Language of Impeccable Academic Credentials Sanskrit is highly respected by the academic community. It often forms a point of interest, comment and admiration when St James pupils are interviewed for university admission. A Systematic Grammar The word ‘Sanskrit’ means ‘perfectly constructed’. Study of its grammar brings order to the mind and clarifies the thinking. From the ISI... In an era of unprecedented change and uncertainty, this offers our pupils a valuable tool by which to assess and look afresh at their own society. Sanskrit literature embodies a comprehensive map of the human makeup: spiritual, emotional, mental and physical. It presents a new way of understanding our relation to the rest of creation and lays out the laws productive of a happy life. Ex-pupils of St James now studying Sanskrit at Oxford University In 2004 the Independent Schools Inspectorate said of Sanskrit at St James Junior Schools: ‘Across the age range, pupils are wholly motivated, utterly absorbed in and intrigued by what they are doing. Their concentration is often intense and their behaviour is immaculate. Even the youngest pupils ask questions freely.’ ‘Several pupils were audibly disappointed when their lesson had to end. One girl in Year 5 explained to the inspector, ‘I love Sanskrit. It is one of my favourite subjects - it is so exciting.’