THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY OF VERBS IN RIBEIRO’S VOCABULARIO OF THE OLD KONKANI LANGUAGE

Abstract

This article explores the significance of studying verbs in Vocabulario da Lingoa Canarim (1626), compiled by Diogo Ribeiro and his Jesuit companions, as a means of understanding the structure and evolution of Old Konkani. Through a historical-linguistic approach, the work traces the emergence of Konkani from Maharashtri Prakrit, its early literary culture, and the influence of missionary contributions in the 16th and 17th centuries. The diachronic changes in Konkani verbs, such as phonological simplification and loss of inflectional diversity, are analysed against broader socio-political contexts like Portuguese colonization and later standardization efforts influenced by Marathi post liberation of Goa. The article asserts that while modern Konkani shows evidence of adaptation and convergence, the preservation and study of Old Konkani structures are critical for retaining the language’s distinct Indo-Aryan identity. Ribeiro’s Vocabulario thus emerges as a pivotal resource for linguistic reconstruction, offering valuable insights for contemporary efforts in language revitalization and typological studies.