What's the oldest language in the world?

Languages are more than a means of communication — they’re living records of history and culture. They shape civilizations, preserve traditions, and connect generations. From ancient texts to epic poems, language has influenced philosophies, religions, and societies, leaving an enduring mark on human history.

While new languages and dialects emerge, others fade into obscurity. Yet, some have survived for thousands of years, adapting through cultural shifts and modernization. Identifying the single oldest language is challenging, as experts debate definitions and historical records. However, several languages have stood the test of time and are still spoken today.

Curious to know which ones? Here are five of the oldest surviving languages in the world, each with a rich legacy that continues to thrive.

1. Tamil

Tamil is part of the Dravidian language family. Researchers say it has been spoken for over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest living languages in the world.

Originating in South India and Sri Lanka, Tamil has a rich literary history spanning centuries. Present-day Tamil is spoken by over 70 million people worldwide, primarily in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and among diasporic communities. It remains a vibrant global language used in media, education, and daily life.

2. Sanskrit

Sanskrit is India's classical and cultural language, with roots dating back well over 3,500 years. While it is no longer widely spoken, it is significant as the language of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Sanskrit also forms the foundation for many modern Indian languages and has influenced scientific, philosophical, and literary traditions worldwide. Today, scholars study and speak it, particularly in India, where efforts to revive the language continue.

3. Greek

The Greek language dates back well over 3,000 years ago. It’s the language of the philosophers, mathematicians, and great minds of Ancient Greece. It has a wealth of historical context that has shaped the world we live in today.

Today's Greek differs from its ancient form; over 13 million people still speak it in Greece and Cyprus. It continues to bridge the ancient and modern worlds, connecting us to a rich heritage of art, science, and beyond.

4. Hebrew

Hebrew is unique among other ancient languages due to its revival after centuries of limited use. Dating back over 3,000 years, Hebrew is the language of the broader Jewish faith, eventually fading from daily use, surviving as a liturgical language.

However, in the 19th and 20th centuries, Hebrew was revived as a spoken language; today, it is spoken by over 9 million people.

5. Chinese (Mandarin)

The Chinese language, specifically Mandarin, dates back 3,000 years to the earliest written records of the Shang Dynasty. It is part of the Sino-Tibetan family and has evolved over a millennia while maintaining continuity through its written form.

Today, Mandarin is the most spoken language in the world, with over a billion speakers. Its longevity shows its cultural and historical strength and continues to unify a vast and diverse population.  

Whether you're a keen traveler, a language enthusiast, or simply curious, you now have a glimpse into the rich linguistic heritage that has stood the test of time. These languages offer a window into our shared past and give us a deeper appreciation of the present.