Khojki Script
Etymology and Definition
The Khojki Script—sometimes referred to as “Khwaja Sindhi”—is one of the earliest forms of written Sindhi. The term “Khojki” probably derives from the word “Khoja,” a variant of the Persian “Khwaja” (خواجه), meaning “lord” or “master.”
Historical Background
Khojki was primarily developed for the Ismaili Muslim community of the Indian subcontinent. The script was an essential instrument in promoting the understanding and dissemination of Islamic teachings and principles among new converts who spoke the Sindhi language. Due to the Ismaili emphasis on esoteric and eschatological knowledge, the script served not only to preserve religious texts but also to educate the community in their native tongue.
Structure and Characteristics
Khojki is an abugida script—a type of writing system in which each symbol generally represents a consonant accompanied by an inherent vowel sound. When necessary, other vowel sounds are indicated by diacritic marks. Khojki shares physical resemblances with Landa scripts, another group of Indo-Aryan scripts from which it likely evolved.
Usage and Function
The script was used to transcribe various forms of literature, including religious texts, hymns, and ethical treatises crucial for guiding the spiritual and moral life of the Ismaili community. Its function extended beyond mere transcription to oral instruction, liturgical practices, and the preservation of communal knowledge.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: الخط الخوجكى (Al-Khaṭ al-Khojaki)
- Turkish: Khojki Yazısı
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Script and Literacy in the Ancient Near East” by Peter T. Daniels and William Bright (eds.) – This book offers comparative insights into various scripts’ evolution, which can extend understanding of Khojki.
- “The Ismailis in the Middle Ages: A History of Survival, a Search for Salvation” by Shafique N. Virani – This book provides a deeper insight into the Ismaili communities, which are intrinsically connected to the history of the Khojki script.
- “A History of Indian Literature in English” by A. K. Mehrotra (ed.) – It gives a broader context to Indian literary traditions, including those involving scripts like Khojki.
Takeaways
- The Khojki Script is an early form of written Sindhi developed mainly for the Ismaili Muslim community.
- It derives its name from “Khoja,” a term meaning ’lord’ or ‘master’ in Persian.
- The script played a crucial role in teaching Islamic principles and preserving religious texts in the native language of its users.
Conclusion
The Khojki script is a remarkable example of cultural adaptation in the spread of Islamic teachings. It underscores the importance of linguistic and written diversity in the religious, social, and educational spheres among the Ismaili communities. Through careful study and preservation, the rich history embodied in scripts like Khojki continues to shed light on the interplay between language, religion, and culture.
