“I am an ocean. In its depths, pearls dwell. So did they ask the diver about my shells?” Hafez Ibrahim conveys the depth of the Arabic language and its profound meanings through this eternal verse. Being one of the Semitic languages, Arabic is widely spoken, with more than 3.9 million people using it as their first language. These people are primarily found in the Arab world as well as in nations like Turkey, Mali, Chad, and others.
Arabic is one of the official literary languages of the world today. More than 30 common dialects, which differ from nation to country, are used by its people today. While standard Arabic is employed in the media, schools, etc. Exceeding French and Russian, Arabic is one of the top four languages used on the internet. [1]
The Arabic language began to develop in ancient times due to the rightly-guided Caliphs’ interest in its propagation. It has also grown and been nurtured by artists and authors in a variety of literary and artistic mediums, giving it its own distinct and intrinsic character.
The United Nations Department of Global Communication has declared a special day to honor each of the six official languages of the UN. This decision was made in light of the significance and widespread use of the Arabic language as well as the UN’s role in promoting languages and multiculturalism. Since the Arabic language is celebrated on December 18th of every year, which is the day it was formally added to the list of its official languages in 1973. [2]
UNESCO has launched the celebration in Arabic since 2010.
The celebration of World Arabic Language Day is a call for civilized communication. The Arabic language is widely used not only in the Arab world but also in many other nations, which promotes intercultural understanding. The Arabic language also had a significant influence on several artistic and medicinal sectors, giving each one a distinctive cultural imprint. Therefore, the purpose of this day is to honor the Arabic language, emphasize its value in advancing science and culture, and promote international understanding and communication.
The Arabic language combines the aesthetics of arts, literature, and a rich history. There are various rumors that it was Adam’s, peace be upon him, native tongue in Paradise. Also, several Arabic inscriptions were discovered in the sixth century AD.
There are many parallels between the Arabic and the Aramaic languages because they have a common ancestor. However, Arabic has developed and now exists independently. The fact that it is written from right to left makes it distinct from other languages. Upon hearing, one is also struck by the variety of lines and singing voice in addition to the lovely luster in the pronunciation.
Eloquence, rhetoric, prose, and poetry all had a part in that. From pre-Islamic times to the present, many poets have achieved greatness in the literary art of poetry. like Nizar Qabbani, Al-Mutanabi, Abi Al-Qasim Al-Shabi, and many others, whose poems are currently being taught in numerous schools. We can see that throughout history, this language has produced a variety of images, poetry, and music.
An annual conference on topics relating to the Arabic language is organized by UNESCO. “Arabic Language and Civilizational Communication” was the theme from the previous year. It places a strong emphasis on the necessity of debate and communication in light of digitalization and technology. In addition to the contribution of the Arabic language to the global demand for peace.
In light of this, the UN hosts a lot of events. As a result, it celebrated Expo 2020 in Arabic, showcasing its beauty, the necessity to protect its history and its significance in political and administrative activities. in conjunction with the League of Arab States. On this occasion, the United Nations broadcasts music on its TV and YouTube channel. [2]
On a personal level, everyone can celebrate this day by enhancing their culture, reading Arabic-language works including novels, poems, and stories, and learning more about the beauty and historical significance of this language.
“Throughout the centuries, Arabic has been at the heart of exchanges between continents and across cultures. On World Arabic Language Day, UNESCO encourages everyone to look to the common roots of civilizations and strive for a more united world.”
– Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. [3]
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References:
[1] Wikipedia
[2] UN
[3] UNESCO