The Evolution of Meaning: A Challenge to Comparative Linguistics

Why is comparative linguistics stagnant?

Unraveling the Origins of "Rrush" (Grape) in Albanian
The etymology of the Albanian word "rrush" (grape) has long been a subject of debate. Official explanations often obscure the true origins of the word, and many linguists overlook the symbolic significance and metaphorization that underlie the creation of words. Instead of examining "rrush" as a physical object and exploring its shape to uncover the universal symbol behind its creation, linguists often focus on decompositions that are not essential to understanding the word's origins.
The symbol "rro" with the sound "ro" represents roundness, a concept that was likely formed as a linguistic notion long before the development of alphabets. This symbol was later represented by the letter Rho (Ρ, ρ), the 17th letter of the Greek alphabet. The word "rush" was created thousands of years ago, during the time of the first grape cultivation on the peninsula later known as Illyricum (around 6000-5650 BC). At that time, there was only one script in the world, known today as the Danube script, which was likely an early attempt to write the Albanian language.
The word "rushi" refers to a round object, and its etymology can be traced back to the proto-Albanian *ro os" (ro is). This challenges the conventional wisdom that Albanian "rrush" originates from *rāguša, supposedly derived from the proto-Indo-European *sr̥h₂gós ("red berries"). Notably, ancient Greek has a similar term, ῥώξ (rhṓx, "grape"), which bears a striking resemblance to the Albanian word.
In contrast, Latin has frāgum ("strawberry"), which may demonstrate a natural transition from "ro" to "ra" with the addition of the symbol "g" representing a chain or union, as seen in the Albanian word "varg". Interestingly, the word "grape" itself may be linked to the Albanian "g-ro-bë".
In conclusion, the symbol "ro" provides a universal code that underlies the creation of words, even those with seemingly disparate meanings. Albanian words like "varg", "verige", "gardh", "përgull", "zgjedhë", "gjiton", "gjisht", "gju", "gjuhë", "gojë", "gurë", and "gjë" all share a common symbolic origin. The Albanian language uniquely preserves the primordial symbols and meanings that underlie the creation of words, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history and evolution of language.
Imagine an O that rolls, propelling a 'KARRO' or cart forward, symbolizing the wheel's transformative impact. The Latin root 'rota,' meaning wheel, may have originated from an earlier language that pioneered this innovation – potentially the Vinča culture, a civilization that played a significant role in European history.
Intriguingly, the Vinča culture has been linked to the ancestors of Albanians, and their legacy may be reflected in the Albanian language. The root 'rota' could have influenced various Albanian words, such as:
- *Kokë* (head), *kokër* (grain), and *gogël* ( possibly related to round objects), which might share a common thread with the concept of circular motion or shape.
- *Tope-koqe-bole* (testicles), *gret'*, *goj* (mouth), *gju* (knee), and *krye* (head), which could be connected to the idea of rounded forms or bodily structures.
- Even ancient Greek words like *acro* might be part of this linguistic network.
The German word 'Kopf,' meaning 'head,' and the Albanian word 'kokë,' also meaning 'head,' likely share a common origin rooted in an ancient concept of round objects. This origin predates written language and challenges traditional etymological narratives.
Official linguists propose that 'Kopf' evolved from a term referring to a 'drinking vessel' or 'cup,' tracing it back to Late Latin 'cuppa' (barrel) or Proto-West German 'koppaz,' meaning 'round object, bowl, crown of the head.' Similarly, the connection between words for 'head,' 'cup,' 'bowl,' 'pot,' 'hoe,' and 'ball' lies in their shared association with round shapes.
Comparative linguistics may benefit from re-examining its methodologies and incorporating new perspectives, such as cognitive linguistics and interdisciplinary approaches. By exploring alternative explanations and challenging established narratives, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of language history and evolution.
Some potential areas for exploration include:
- Cognitive roots of language: Investigating how humans conceptualize and categorize objects and ideas.
- Proto-language reconstruction: Examining the potential roots of language before written records.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: Integrating insights from anthropology, cognitive science, and other fields to better understand language evolution.
By embracing new ideas and approaches, comparative linguistics can continue to evolve and provide valuable insights into the complex and fascinating world of human language.