Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 24:94 (Apr 1867)
Article: Philosophy Of Language
Author: Leonard Tafel

BSac 24:94 (April 1867) p. 209

Philosophy Of Language

Prof. R. L. Tafel

In speaking of the philosophy of a thing, or in saying that it is philosophically considered, we generally mean that it is regarded from a higher or interior point of view; a point from which the principles by which it is governed and its interior construction become visible. In treating of the philosophy of language we must, therefore, so proceed that the interior things contained therein may become apparent, and that we may get a full view of it in all its bearings.

At first appearance language looks, indeed, simple enough, and by most people it is regarded as a mere instrument for giving vent to their feelings, expressing their ideas, and holding intercourse with their fellow-men. By the more intelligent among men, however, it is held in higher esteem, and even regarded with profound reverence, as by its means they obtain access to all the intellectual treasures of mankind, and in it they see the medium by which God has communicated his word for the salvation of the human race. Beyond this, however, their interest in language rarely extends, and the sole purpose for which, until very recently, it has been made a subject of diligent study, was that of possessing the ability to converse with people of different nations, and of

BSac 24:94 (April 1867) p. 210

having access to the literature of olden and modern times. Language was regarded as a mere handmaid, valued only for the sake of the rich presents she bore in her hands, and which she lavished upon all who did not shun the labor necessary for their acquisition.

It is a discovery of quite modern date that language is not a menial handmaid, but instead, a noble organism, full of beauty and wisdom, with liberty reigning in its every particle, and with the charms that render a subject fascinating in the eyes of the student abundantly scattered over its surface. Indeed, modern investigations have proved most triumphantly that language is not only the most comprehensive of all sciences, but with regard to the positive information it offers respecting the intellectual organization of man, full worthy of taking the lead among its sister sciences. This honor also has already been accorded to it by history and natural history, and its oracles are profoundly listened to by each of these sciences, when the former desires to be enlightened respecting the ante-historical ages of mankind, and the latter to have correct ideas respecting the affinities existing among the human species.

A few remarks on the nature of language will show us in what particular field these discoveries have been made, and why it was that mankind so long remained in ignorance of its true character.

Every thing that p...