The Name History of Sri Lanka: From Ceylon to Modern Times

The island nation of Sri Lanka has a rich history of names, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage and various rulers over the centuries. The latest official name adopted by Sri Lanka is its current form, whereas the British colonial era saw the reference to its former name, Ceylon. This article explores the evolution of the names associated with Sri Lanka, delving into historical legends and timelines.

The Change from Ceylon to Sri Lanka

Until 1972, the island nation was officially known as Ceylon. This name was predominantly used during the British colonial period, which lasted from the early 17th century until 1948. The transformation to the current name, Sri Lanka, occurred due to a national movement to re-assert indigenous identity and cultural heritage.

The Most Ancient Name: Siri L?nga Deēpa

The most ancient reference to the name of Sri Lanka is Siri L?nga Deēpa, a term that translates to "Island Close to Prophet Adam." This name reflects a significant legend related to the origins of the island. According to Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Adam and Eve, after being expelled from Eden, landed on Sri Lanka, known as the Isle of Pearls, as a form of punishment and exile. This belief is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan cultural narratives and is often commemorated in historical and religious sites, such as Adam's Peak (Sri Pada) and the city of Sīri Nāhara in Kashmir, India.

The Legend of Adam and Eve

According to the legend, about 10,500 years ago, Adam and Eve were sent to Sri Lanka by Allah as a form of punishment for disobeying His command. They spent 40 full moons, or approximately three years, in isolation, separated from each other and unable to find each other. Adam was sent to the mountain range known as Adam's Peak, while Eve was sent to the plains below, near Nuwara Eliya. After this period, they crossed what is believed to be a landmass connecting Sri Lanka to India, which was then higher above sea level. Adam and Eve eventually met again at a place called Dānskodi, and they continued their journey, eventually arriving in Kashmir, India.

Other Names in History

Before the widely known names such as Ceylon, Sri Lanka, and its ancient names, Sri Lanka has also been known by various other names throughout its history. Here is a list of these names:

Ceilo: Portuguese name used from 1505 to 1667, ruling the Kotte Kingdom or the Maritime province. Zeylan or Seylan: Dutch name used from 1667 to 1798, succeeding the Portuguese and the Sitawaka Kingdom. Ceylon: British name used from 1798 to 1948, ruling the entire island under the Kandyan Kingdom and the Vanni Kingdom. Lankadipa, Lakbima, Heladiva, Ratnadeep: Ancient Tamil and Sanskrit names meaning "Island of Gems" or "Island People." Dipavamsa: Another name reflecting the ancient inhabitants of the land. Simoundou and Taprobana: Names given by the Greeks, with Taprobana likely derived from Tambapanni, meaning "copper-colored Earth." Prince Vijaya: A legendary leader who gave rise to the Singhala civilization, with Singhala meaning "lion blood." The word also led to Sinhala, Simhala, Sinhaladipa, and Singhalese. Serendip and Saracen: Names used by the Arabs and Persians.

These names reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Sri Lanka, from early Tamil kingdoms and the Sinhalese dynasties to the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Each of these names carries a unique story and historical significance, illustrating the island's complex and rich historical heritage.