Perkembangan Sistem Penghitungan dalam Bahasa Melayu Klasik

The evolution of numerical systems in any language reflects the intellectual and cultural development of its speakers. In the case of Classical Malay, the system of counting, known as *angka*, has undergone a fascinating transformation over time, influenced by both indigenous practices and external influences. This article delves into the intricacies of the *angka* system in Classical Malay, exploring its origins, development, and the factors that shaped its evolution.

The Indigenous Roots of *Angka*

The earliest forms of *angka* in Classical Malay were likely based on a system of counting using fingers and toes, a practice common in many ancient cultures. This system, known as the vigesimal system, employed a base-20 counting system, with the number 20 serving as a significant marker. Evidence of this system can be found in the use of words like *dua puluh* (twenty) and *empat puluh* (forty), which literally translate to "two twenties" and "four twenties," respectively. This indigenous system was further enriched by the incorporation of words for specific numbers, such as *satu* (one), *dua* (two), *tiga* (three), and so on.

The Influence of Sanskrit

The arrival of Hinduism and Buddhism in the Malay Archipelago during the early centuries CE brought with it the influence of Sanskrit, a language rich in mathematical and numerical concepts. Sanskrit introduced a decimal system, which used a base-10 counting system. This system, with its emphasis on place value and the use of symbols for numbers, had a profound impact on the development of *angka* in Classical Malay. The adoption of Sanskrit numerals, known as *angka Arab* (Arabic numerals), alongside the indigenous system, created a hybrid system that combined the practicality of the decimal system with the familiarity of the vigesimal system.

The Emergence of *Angka Rumi*

The arrival of Islam in the Malay Archipelago in the 13th century CE further transformed the *angka* system. The introduction of Arabic script, which included a set of numerals known as *angka Rumi* (Roman numerals), provided a new system for representing numbers. *Angka Rumi* became widely used in religious texts, administrative documents, and other forms of written communication. The adoption of *angka Rumi* alongside *angka Arab* created a tripartite system, with each system serving specific purposes.

The Legacy of *Angka* in Modern Malay

The evolution of *angka* in Classical Malay has left a lasting legacy on the language. While the decimal system, with its use of *angka Arab*, has become the dominant system in modern Malay, the influence of the indigenous vigesimal system and the historical use of *angka Rumi* can still be observed in certain contexts. For instance, the use of words like *dua puluh* and *empat puluh* persists in everyday language, and *angka Rumi* is still used in some traditional settings.

The development of *angka* in Classical Malay is a testament to the dynamic nature of language and its ability to adapt to changing cultural and intellectual influences. The interplay of indigenous practices, Sanskrit influences, and the arrival of Islam created a complex and multifaceted system of counting that continues to shape the language today. The study of *angka* provides valuable insights into the history and evolution of Classical Malay, highlighting the interconnectedness of language, culture, and intellectual development.