Syriac alphabet

The Syriac alphabet is used for writing the Syriac language. It is clearly related to other alphabets used to write Semitic languages.

Forms of the Syriac alphabet

There are three major variations of the Syriac alphabet. The oldest and classical form of the alphabet is Estrangel? (the name is derived from the Greek description στρογγυλη, strongyl?, 'rounded'). Although Estrangel? is no longer used as the main script for writing Syriac, it has received a bit of a revival. It is often used in scholarly publications (for instance, the Leiden University version of the Peshitta), in titles and inscriptions.

Related Topics:
Leiden University - Peshitta

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The West Syriac dialect is usually written in the Sert? ('line') form of the alphabet. Most of the letters are obviously derived from Estrangel?, but are simplified, flowing lines. The Arabic alphabet was based on this form of Syriac handwriting. The western script is usually vowel-pointed with miniature Greek vowel letters above or below the letter which they follow: Α (capital alpha) represents a, α (lowercase alpha) represents ? (pronounced as an o), ε (lowercase epsilon) represents e and ?, Ι (capital iota) represents ?, and a combined symbol of Υ (capital upsilon) and ο (lowercase omicron) represents ?.

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The East Syriac dialect is usually written in the Madnh?y? ('eastern') form of the alphabet. Unfortunately, it is often called 'nestorian', a term that was originally used to disparage Christians living in the Persian Empire. The eastern script resembles Estrangel? more closely than the western script. The eastern script uses a system of dots above or below letters to indicate vowels.

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When Arabic began to be the dominant spoken language in Fertile Crescent, texts were often written in Arabic with the Syriac script. These writings are usually called Karshuni or Garshuni.

Related Topics:
Arabic - Fertile Crescent - Garshuni

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