The Evolution from Classical Arabic to Modern Standard Arabic: A Gradual Transformation

It is a common misconception that the shift from Classical Arabic (CA) to Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) was a conscious and sudden decision. Rather, like all languages, this transformation occurred gradually and organically over time.

Gradual Evolution of Languages

It is not accurate to pinpoint a specific moment when English shifted from Shakespearean English to contemporary English. Similarly, the transition in Arabic is a natural and evolving process. The development of MSA was not a linear shift from one form to another but rather an expansion and adaptation of Classical Arabic.

Emergence of MSA

The emergence of MSA was a result of increased cultural, social, and educational exchanges with the West, as well as indigenous cultural movements. Notably, this development was particularly prominent in regions such as the Levant and Egypt. While the term “Classical Arabic” is often used to refer to pre-modern forms, varieties of a language, especially written forms, are rarely uniform and are often influenced by other forms of the language and outside influences.

Historical Context

The decline in eloquence in the Arabic language began around the third century of the Hijra calendar, particularly for Bedouin people.

According to famous scholar Mustafa Al Rifai, the decline in eloquence within the Arabic language began during the third century of the Hijra calendar, particularly for Bedouin peoples. This indicates that the transition from Classical Arabic to Modern Standard Arabic was not a sudden shift but a gradual process that has been unfolding over centuries.

Similarities and Differences

It is important to note that the letters and vocabulary in both Classical Arabic and Modern Standard Arabic are essentially the same. The differences primarily lie in grammar and stylistic conventions. While a well-versed linguist or native speaker could identify differences in grammar, the differences in lexis and stylistics are not as significant as they might seem at first glance.

Analogy to Shakespearean Literature

For a clearer understanding, consider the analogy of reading Shakespearean plays versus modern literature. Both use the same letters and terms, but the syntax and sentence structures can vary significantly. A well-versed Shakespearean expert can distinguish between the two, but the underlying language remains fundamentally the same.

The gradual transition from Classical Arabic to Modern Standard Arabic is a testament to the flexibility and adaptability of language in the face of cultural and societal changes. While there is no definitive point in time when the shift occurred, it is a process that continues to unfold, enriching the Arabic language and its applications across different contexts and regions.