Róbert Gáfrik from the Institute of World Literature of the Slovak Academy of Sciences has translated the Upanishads into Slovak, marking a significant milestone in making these ancient texts accessible to Slovak readers. The Upanishads, which date back to around the 7th century BC, are considered the oldest preserved philosophical texts in the world.
Gáfrik explained that the term 'upanishad' refers to that which removes ignorance and brings self-knowledge. The translation process took approximately five years, with Gáfrik dedicating three years specifically to translating the ten main Upanishads. His work reflects a 30-year interest in Indian literature and philosophy.
He noted the challenge of translating philosophical texts into a modern language while ensuring they retain their meaning. Gáfrik's translations are influenced by the interpretations of Shankara, an important Indian philosopher from the 8th century. He emphasized the linguistic connections between Sanskrit and Slovak, pointing out that both languages have inflectional noun cases and similar words, such as 'plávať' (to swim) in Slovak and 'plavaté' in Sanskrit.
Despite the similarities, Gáfrik cautioned that Sanskrit is a complex language requiring extensive study. He mentioned that Sanskrit is still spoken in some regions of India, where it is used in daily life and education.
Gáfrik expressed the importance of understanding the cultural context of the Upanishads, stating that they contain profound insights into consciousness and self-knowledge. He also highlighted the historical significance of these texts, suggesting that they should be recognized alongside the philosophical contributions of ancient Greece.
The translation aims to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, providing Slovak readers with access to a foundational aspect of Indian thought.