الصلات الوثيقة بين اللغة العربية واللغة الأردية

THE STRONG CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ARABIC LANGUAGE AND URDU LANGUAGE (COMPARATIVE STUDY)

Abstract

This study examines the close linguistic ties between Arabic and Urdu languages, exploring their historical, phonological, morphological, syntactic, lexical, semantic, and literary connections. The relationship originated with Islam's arrival in the Indian subcontinent in the 7th century CE, intensified during the Mughal period, and was shaped by religious, cultural, political, and educational factors.

Arabic profoundly influenced Urdu through adoption of Arabic script (Naskh-Nastaliq), phonetic sounds (ث، ح، خ، ذ، ص، ض، ط، ظ، ع، غ، ق), morphological patterns (plurals, derivations, diminutives), syntactic constructions (iḍāfah, descriptive phrases), and an estimated 40-60% Arabic vocabulary spanning religious, scientific, literary, administrative, and daily lexicons.

The study analyzes works by Mir Taqi Mir, Ghalib, and Iqbal, demonstrating Arabic influence in Urdu literature, while identifying contemporary challenges including globalization, English dominance, weakening interest in Islamic heritage, inadequate educational curricula, and limited cultural exchange programs. Despite these obstacles, opportunities exist through digital technology, interdisciplinary studies, regional cooperation, and diaspora communities. Proposed strategies include curriculum development, translation initiatives, research collaboration, and institutional partnerships to sustain this civilizational linguistic bridge.