An Analysis of Relative Clauses found in the Dhammapada of “Treasury of Truth” Translated by Ven. Weragoda Sarada Maha Thero

Abstract

This research was two objectives: 1) to analyze the types and forms of relative clauses found in The Dhammapada by Ven. Weragoda Sarada Maha Thero 2) to determine the frequency of usage of relative clauses in The Dhammapada by Ven. Weragoda Sarada Maha Thero. The study is qualitative research in nature focusing on a documentary method through reading and studying based on the Buddhist book of Dhammapada concerning the topic of the problem taken from 14 stories in the Buddhist Sutta Pitaka of Yamaka Vagga (Twin Verses) presented from the Suttanta Pitaka. The data were collected and used to apply for analysis designed by the researcher under qualitative method from the Dhammapada of stories translated by Ven. Weragoda Sarada Maha Thero. The data analysis led to a comprehensive understanding of the method of the study based on the critical analysis of syntactic knowledge. The result of research found as follow: The textual analysis of fourteen stories revealed that relative clauses constitute a crucial stylistic and grammatical device in Buddhist narrative discourse. Five principal forms were identified: (a) relative pronoun as subject, (b) relative pronoun as object, (c) relative pronoun as object of a preposition, (d) possessive relative clause, and (e) adverbial relative clause of place or time. In addition, reduced relative clauses were also found, reflecting efforts to maintain narrative conciseness. Restrictive relative clauses dominated the text, serving to identify and specify individuals and events, whereas non-restrictive forms provided elaboration and moral emphasis. For the second objective, a total of 86 relative clauses were recorded, averaging 6–7 per story. The relative pronoun as subject was the most frequent type, while the possessive form was least frequent. The most common markers included who, which, that, where, when, and whose. The findings indicate a patterned and consistent distribution, aligning with oral narrative traditions that prioritize cohesion, clarity, and the reinforcement of doctrinal themes. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that relative clauses in the Yamaka Vagga serve a dual function. Linguistically, they enhance syntactic clarity and textual cohesion. Narratively, they embed moral and doctrinal significance into characters and events, highlighting karmic consequences and ethical teachings. The consistent use of relative clauses across all stories underscores their central role in Buddhist narrative style and their importance as a translation strategy in conveying both grammatical precision and spiritual instruction.