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The Earth-Born King: Unraveling the Mystery of Erichthonius' Name

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The name Erichthonius presents a fascinating case study in etymology, with connections to various languages and roots. The "pre-Greek" form of the name can be linked to the Albanian language, specifically the words "toke" (earth) and "xerr" (extract), "xer" (Cham Albanian), "xjerr" (Geg Albanian) and "nxjerr" (standard Albanian)
This decomposition reveals a possible meaning of "take out the land" or "earth-born."
The nephew's name, Erechtheus, further supports this connection, with the Albanian verb "xjerr" (to take out) and the roots "dhé" (soil). The nominative ending "US" is an addition of "S" to "U" the nominative ending od the Albanian language of word "dhé", which becomes "dheu" also align with this etymology.
The popular etymologies for Erichthonius' name, such as connections to "shake" (ἐρέχθω), "wool" (ἔριον), and "earth" (χθών), may also hold significance. However, the Albanian roots and verb "xjerr", "dhé" and "tok(ë)" provide a more convincing and coherent explanation.
The intentional changes in the Albanian roots and the possible medieval authorship of "ancient" books raise intriguing questions about the evolution of languages and the transmission of knowledge.

Copyright © 2024 Fatmir Iliazi.

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