November 14, 2014

སྲང་།


According to Laufer 1916: 410, Tibetan word srang (“ounce”) is not derived from Chinese liaṅ  but is derived from Tibetan srong ba (“to straighten,” “to render straight”).


3 comments:

  1. Why is that? Because of the straightening of the scales, or the balance beam of the scales? Or because of the straightness (honesty) of the merchant who doesn't tilt the scales in his own favor?

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  2. I associate srang with fairness, honestly, and justice (for both the buyer and the seller). It immediately reminds me of the state/image of Lady of Justice.

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