Languages and Local Dialects of Herat
Herat, one of the oldest cities in the Islamic world and a major center of civilization in Greater Khorasan, has long been a hub of cultural and linguistic diversity. Its geographic location at the crossroads of Iran, Central Asia, and Afghanistan has led to the development of various languages and dialects that continue to thrive today. Language in Herat serves not only as a daily communication tool but also as an inseparable part of the city’s cultural and historical identity.
1. Dari Persian: The Main and Cultural Language
The dominant language in Herat is Dari Persian. It is used in homes, markets, schools, universities, and the media.
Features of Herati Persian:
- Softness and Melody: Herati Persian is known for its soft, melodic accent.
- Old Vocabulary: Many words that are rarely used in standard modern Persian are still common in Herat, such as bāyg (small bag), kolcheh (a type of pastry), and charsak (small spoon).
- Similarity to Khorasani and Mashhadi Persian: The local accent closely resembles Khorasani Persian, making it understandable to Persian speakers from Iran.
Role of Literature in Herat’s Language
Historically known as the “City of Science and Literature,” Herat has produced literary giants like Jami, Abdi Beg Shirazi, and Kamaluddin Behzad. Persian literature holds a special place in Herat, and the local language is rich in idioms and proverbs.
2. Local Persian Dialects in Herat’s Villages
Surrounding villages each have unique dialects:
- Ghorī dialect: Similar to Hazaragi Persian.
- Kohsani and Ghoriyani dialects: Blend of Persian with Turkmen and Pashto words.
- Turkmen-influenced Persian: Distinct pronunciation shaped by the Turkmen language.
This diversity makes Herat a rich linguistic mosaic.
3. Pashto Language in Herat
A large Pashtun population lives in districts such as Ghorian, Adraskan, and Zinda Jan.
- Pashto is primarily used in family and ethnic gatherings.
- Many Pashtuns in Herat are bilingual, fluent in both Persian and Pashto.
- Pashto influences Herati Persian mostly in daily vocabulary and idioms.
4. Turkic Languages (Turkmen and Uzbek)
Turkmen:
- Turkmens live in districts like Koshk Kohna and Gulran.
- The language remains alive among younger generations and is used in family and cultural settings.
Uzbek:
- The Uzbek population in Herat is smaller but present in parts of the city and surrounding districts.
- Uzbek is used alongside Persian as a secondary language.
5. Language and Ethnic-Religious Identity
- Hazaras: Speak Hazaragi Persian, which is similar to Dari but with distinct intonation and some vocabulary.
- Religious minorities such as Sikhs and Hindus historically lived in Herat; their primary language was Persian, with unique terms of their own.
6. Historical Influences on Herat’s Language
Herat’s languages have been shaped by various cultures and civilizations over centuries
- Timurid Era: Dari Persian reached its peak and became the official language of court poetry and literature.
- Connections with Iran: Proximity to Khorasan led to the introduction of Iranian words and phrases into Herati Persian.
- Coexistence with Pashto and Turkic languages: Created shared vocabulary and loanwords.
7. Examples of Herati Vocabulary
- Kolcheh = a traditional pastry
- Manduq = seeds
- Chay-josh = teapot
- Qut = a common Turkmen sweet in Herat
- Bāyg = small bag for storing items
These examples show that the Herati dialect, while Persian, carries a distinct local flavor.
8. The Role of Language in Herati Identity
The people of Herat take pride in their language and dialect. The Herati accent symbolizes the city’s civilization, culture, and history. It holds a special place among Persian speakers in Afghanistan. Even local songs and melodies are cherished for the sweetness of the dialect.
Conclusion
Herat’s linguistic landscape combines Dari Persian, local dialects, Pashto, Turkmen, Uzbek, and Hazaragi. Among this diversity, Herati Persian remains the core of communication and culture. This linguistic richness is not a threat to social cohesion but a symbol of cultural wealth and historical coexistence.