A Lexical Study on the Term “Thogai” as Indicated in the Tolkappiyam

தொல்காப்பியம் சுட்டும் தொகை என்ற சொற்பொருளாராய்ச்சி

Abstract

Tolkappiyar, the author of the ancient Tamil grammatical treatise Tolkappiyam, systematically divided his work into three sections: Ezhuthathikaram (phonology), Sollathikaram (morphology), and Porulathikaram (semantics). The author emphasized the study of letters, words, and meanings as the foundation of Tamil linguistics. In the Sollathikaram section, eight sub-divisions are presented, starting from Kilavi Aakkam (word formation) to Uriyiyal (case relations). Within the sub-section Echchaviyal, the concept of Thogai (collection or aggregation) holds a significant place. It is an essential linguistic element that denotes grouping, classification, or aggregation of words in Tamil grammar. This paper investigates the lexical and semantic meaning of Thogai, as mentioned in the grammatical verse of the Tolkappiyam. Through a comparative examination of various traditional commentaries such as those by Ilampooranar, Nacchinarkiniyar, and Senavaraiyar, this research aims to interpret the deeper grammatical and philosophical nuances behind the term Thogai.