Why I Chose to Learn Arabic

I am a keen learner. In my spare time I like learning something new. I chose to learn Arabic after hearing about free classes held in the local Musalla, from a couple of friends. It was summer, the timing suited me and so I started taking these lessons. I thought since Arabic is the language of the Holy Quran, there must be more reward and benefit in learning this language over others. So, in this sense I was inclined towards Arabic more than any other language. I also liked the fact that my teacher was from the same background. This made it easier to learn a new language.

I think Arabic is a difficult language to learn. Even though I was remarkably familiar with its script, it still wasn’t easy since its grammar is different. There are many charts that must be memorized to progress to the next level. The language is also different, meaning there are many more verbs conjugations than any language I have ever studied. Arabic grammar is particularly challenging as verbs tend to come before the subject. Also, there is a dual form of words in addition to the singular and plural which makes it more difficult to learn. Arabic also has very distinct genders applied to all nouns and verbs. That demands more attention from the people who have only learned to use “it” for all the non-living things. One fascinating and unique aspect of Arabic is that it conveys the meaning of a full sentence in a single word. Thus, it is less lengthy but more eloquent than other languages.

Though I have my struggles and I am waiting for my triumph, but still, there is no room for discouragement as perfection comes after practice. Finally, the grammar tables do get memorized, given enough time and attention. I am hoping, the complex harmony of grammatical details gets de-tangled at some point. Then the sea of vocabulary one day will be stored in my brain’s long-term memory. In the meantime, I am putting one foot in front of the other and taking it slowly. Who says there is an age limit for learning anything?

Moreover, even if I couldn't become an expert in the Arabic language, but just by learning a new language; I am investing in my future of healthy brain cells. This is a triumph in today’s world.

I also realized the amazing benefit of learning a new language. It improves the memory and decreases the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s. It also increases the attention span while improving multitasking abilities. It also creates better cognitive skills and improves first language. Moreover, it can both increase the size of the brain and develop the perceptual sensitivity. (From: https://www.iwillteachyoualanguage.com/blog/9-health-benefits-of-learning-a-foreign-language)

In short, language learning, especially Arabic, is a privilege that helps open the closed windows of the mind and takes one from limited knowledge to the heights of knowledge. Its study is only undertaken by those people who understand the value in such an undertaking. The task is hard. But the rewards of intellectual development are many. It does make up for the initial difficulty.

References:(Iwillteachyoulanguage.com)