ARABIC LANGUAGE USAGE

By Amb. Dhano Obongo

March 20, 2017(Nyamilepedia) —— Our beloved republic uses colloquial Arabic here in Juba and it is widely understood throughout the nation.  Arab Muslims believe the Holy Koran can only be properly understood in its original language, classical Arabic.  We do not need classical Arabic to conduct affairs of state.  English is the official language of our governmental business

Language connects people with one another.  As an emblematic system of information, whether spoken or written, our connection to one another is eased and cultural heritage is passed down through the generations by language.  It is key to communication.  Just as our bodies carry genetic codes through history, so does language unlock eras of collected intelligence.

Language usage may link us to the past, but also stimulates the human mind.  Linking emblems allows us to envision an almost boundless variety of future options.  Language enables human beings to be the only creatures who are self conscious.  We are aware of our restrictions and ethics.  We can dream and hope for a future better than the present.

The Arabic language is essentially Semitic.  It was first spoken by people of Mesopotamia in the east across to the mountains of Lebanon in the west.  These Arab peoples comprise the Arab world of 42 million people.  Arabic is one of six official United Nations languages and is heard throughout the globe.  It is the official language of Arab world nations and the 26 states of the Arab League.  Classical Arabic is the language of the Holy Quran and the tongue in which Mohammed prophesied.  It is also used in the Hadith and other early literature.

Colloquial Arabic or Juba Arabic is different from the classical.  It has borrowed words from many languages such as Syrian, Persian, Greek, Aramaic, Hebrew, etc.  Its speakers  do not understand classical Arabic.  We do not need classical Arabic to understand programs of the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC).

The author can be reached via: E-mail address: dhano01obongo@gmail.com