ABSTRACT
This chapter is concerned with language as it impinges on religion rather than simply on language per se. It explores the language used in the sacred writings of that Faith as this may affect the children in school as that may be the language being taught or used at home. As Buddhism is an international religion there are those who speak many indigenous languages. The ancient language of Buddhism is that of Pali. Amongst the vast body of Hindu sacred writings may be found two broad categories, Sruti and Smriti, into which sacred writings may be placed. The language of Islam is Arabic. Additional Holy writings for Muslims, though subordinate to the Qur’an, are Hadith and Sunna. The language of Judaism is Hebrew. The sacred scriptures of Sikhism are called the Adi Granth or Guru Granth Sahib.
