Sanskrit vs Tamil: Languages in Indian Religious Practices in Malaysia

The choice of language in religious practices among Malaysian Indians is a topic of interest, particularly when it comes to Sanskrit and Tamil. While these two languages hold significant historical and cultural importance, their usage in religious settings can vary greatly depending on tradition and community.

Community Practices and Preferences

According to several sources and common practice, Malaysian Indians do not have a specific preference for Sanskrit or Tamil as a liturgical language. The decision typically follows the guidance of the pujaris (priests) who perform rituals in temples. For instance, hymns like Devaram and the Shiv Purana are often recited in the Tamil old variant, which requires additional scholarly understanding to fully appreciate.

Most mantras, which are essential for various rituals and prayers, are conveyed in Sanskrit. The use of Sanskrit in public worship in temples across Malaysia is consistent across all forms of public rituals, emphasizing the traditional and sacramental role of this ancient language. However, the rigidity of these practices is somewhat lessened by the reliance on true priestly knowledge rather than communal preference.

Language Preference in Devotional Songs

While Sanskrit is the domain of the liturgical rituals conducted by the pujaris, the devotional songs and other forms of offerings to the deities are overwhelmingly in Tamil. Given that over 90% of Malaysian Indians are of Tamil origin, it is natural that the majority of religious expressions in Malaysian Indian communities are in Tamil. This language has a deep-rooted tradition in the region, influencing almost every aspect of religious life.

The vast majority of the liturgy, preaching, and sermons are delivered in Tamil, reflecting the cultural and linguistic dominance of the Tamil-speaking community. The accessibility and familiarity of Tamil for the vast majority of worshippers facilitate seamless participation in various ceremonies and rituals.

Common Observations During Stay

During my two-year stay in Malaysia, I did not hear Sanskrit used extensively in religious contexts. The dominant language observed in temples and during prayers was Tamil. Even among Punjabi Indian communities, the preference for Tamil is evident. This highlights the pervasive influence of Tamil in the religious practices of Malaysian Indians, irrespective of their specific heritage.

It is worth noting that while Sanskrit is respected and revered as a sacred language, its practical application in day-to-day religious activities is limited. Instead, Tamil serves as the more accessible and universally understood language in the community, ensuring that the religious experience remains inclusive and engaging for all devotees.

Conclusion

In summary, the preference for Sanskrit or Tamil among Malaysian Indians as a liturgical language is less about personal choice and more about religious practices and community traditions. While Sanskrit retains its significance in liturgical and prayer-based rituals, Tamil holds the primary position in devotional songs and other forms of religious expressions.

The choice of language reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Malaysian Indian communities, where both languages coexist in a manner that enhances and preserves the historical and spiritual significance of their beliefs and practices.