Abstract:
This research article concerning the critical compilation of the
translation methodology used by Ariyadasa Kumarasinghe in the
provision of a Sinhala commentary of the Caraka Samhita. Mainly this
research is comprises of three parts. Namely, the main source of the
Caraka samhita (Sanskrit text), target text of Caraka Samhita (Sinhala
translation) and the translation methodology used. Both the Caraka
Samhita and the translation of languages have a long history. The
Caraka Samhita is the main medical text in Ayurveda. When
translating scientific facts from one language to another we cannot
underestimate the responsibility of the translator. Furthermore, when
providing a commentary, it has to be extremely accurate because this is
a medical text. Among the facts to be considered in the translation of
languages are the lexicon, grammar, idioms and the background of the
relevant language culture. The translator needs to be aware of these
facts. Since this translation supplies the meaning and purpose of words,
we can consider this as a traditional language translation. While using
the facts mentioned earlier, the translator must furnish the main thrust of the original author
and supply a medical scientific compilation. The aim of this research is to recognize the
methodology used by Ariyadasa Kumarasinghe in the compilation in Sinhala translation of
Caraka Samhita. The methodology of language translation and the relevant theories were
studied primarily. Among them the recognition of study sectors of translation of languages
was considered as of great importance. For this, a primary Study of works and documents of
translation theoreticians such as Eugin Needa, Wills, Rojer Gofin, James Homes and Kikairo
was done accordingly. The procedure applied for this research is the process oriented
descriptive translation study presented by James Homes. Using this translation methodology
the present research has given an impartial and reasonable judgment on the process used by
the translator.
