On Some Instances of Vowel-Metathesis in Prakrit

Summary

This linguistic study investigates the phenomenon of vowel metathesis in Prakrit, a process whereby vowel sounds exchange positions within a word. Beginning with the observation that most phonetic studies focus on consonant metathesis, the author examines examples primarily drawn from Hemacandra’s grammar to argue that vowels too can undergo transposition. Forms such as prathama evolving to padhama and then to padbuma demonstrate how consecutive vowels in adjacent syllables may invert, producing contracted variants. The paper collects instances from Prakrit grammars, literary texts and commentaries, including pairs like cale and pale, which some commentators consider interchangeable past participles of distinct verbs. Scholars’ opinions are reviewed: while some deny that true vowel metathesis occurs and attribute irregularities to analogy or scribal error, others, notably Jules Bloch, accept it as a genuine phonetic process. By reconstructing intermediate stages of sound change, the author shows that vowel metathesis often arises in rapid speech and may be encouraged by stress patterns or the avoidance of certain consonant clusters. Recognising metathesis clarifies the derivation of problematic forms and helps explain dialectal variations. The article concludes that although vowel metathesis is rare compared with other sound changes, it is a plausible feature of Prakrit and should be acknowledged in grammatical descriptions. Accepting this process enriches the understanding of Prakrit phonology and assists in the critical interpretation of manuscripts.