Lesson 36: Sanskrit for Beginners Course: Sandhi + Past Tense
Summary:
Entire CH15. Sandhi rule for “m”. Common verb prefixes. Past tense (imperfect) for Ātmanepada verbs.
Source: Introduction to Sanskrit (4th Ed) – Thomas Egenes – Part One
This session deals with: CH15, pg 196-200.
Sandhi Rule for ‘m':
- Two ways between word1m + word2.
- Easy way: (Less common)
- Common in classic/modern Sanskrit.
- Change word1m to anusvāra + doesn't join with word2.
- EG: naram gacchati (नरम् गच्छति) > naraṃ gacchati (नरं गच्छति)
- Hard way: (More common)
- Common in Vedic Sanskrit. Majority of scriptures/literature.
- Word1m changes to: ṇ ण् / ñ ञ् / ṇ ण् / n न् + joins with word2.
- How to know which “n” it is?
- Step 1: Go to pg 9 of book.
- Step 2: Find the first letter of word2.
- Step 3: Notice which “n” in 5th column.
- EG: naram gacchati नरम् गच्छति > naraṅgacchati नरङ्गच्छति
- How to know which “n” it is?
- Easy way: (Less common)
Verb Prefixes:
- What is a verb prefix (vp)?
- A short word which comes BEFORE verb/noun. They're often seen before verbs. Less commonly before nouns.
- Formula:
- vp + verb/noun
- EG:
- ud उद् (up) + tiṣṭhati तिष्ठति (goes) = uttiṣṭhati उत्तिष्ठति (He/she/it stands up).
- Why does “ud” change to “ut“? Common sandhi joining rules apply.
- EG:
- vp + verb/noun
Imperfect Middle:
- See video.
Homework:
- Go over Spoken Sanskrit 14 (Positions).
- Recite new verse: Early Morning Prayer
- PG197: Write out verbal prefix, and 1 English definition you’re most attracted to.
- PG199: Write out imperfect Middle paradigm.
- PG200: Memorize new vocab before doing exercises.
- PG201-203: All exercises.
Questions:
You'll have more questions throughout the course. How to ask? Leave in comments below, so others can also benefit. We'll respond within 48 hours. Only ask specific to this Lesson.
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Recorded 30 May, 2021