Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Lithrongla G Chishi releasing the revised edition of EW Clark Dictionary during the Sunday devotional service at Mokokchung Town Ao Baptist Church on Sunday, December 18, 2011. The Executive Secretary of the Ao Baptist Church Council, Rev Dr Mar Atsongchanger is also seen in the picture. (Photo courtesy: Sashi Jamir)
Mokokchung, December 18 (MExN): In commemoration of hundred year anniversary of first Ao Dictionary compiled by Rev Dr EW Clark in the year 1911, the Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) revised the dictionary and reprinted the dictionary which was released at the Mokokchung Town Baptist Church by Mokokchung Deputy Commissioner Lithrongla G Chishi here today.
The Executive Secretary of ABAM (Ao Baptist Church Council), Rev Dr Mar Atsongchanger and a host of other church leaders both from far and near attended the book release programme held during the Sunday Devotional service at the MTBA (church).
The first Ao dictionary compiled by Rev Dr EW Clark was printed in the year 1911; there were 1000 copies of dictionary printed the book had 977 pages and 12,215 words. “This revised edition does not have any new words included or the original words written by Clark,” said Rev C Walu Walling, the convener of the ‘Clark Dictionary Revised Edition Committee.
The revised edition has 939 pages, but the number of words remains the same at 12,215.
The proposal to revise the Clark Dictionary was resolved in commemoration of hundred year anniversary celebrated this year; the ABAM appointed a committee and it was this committee that took the initiative to revise and print the dictionary. It is learnt that 3000 copies of the book have been printed and it will be available by next year. The book is priced at Rs 650.
Meanwhile, the ABAM also acknowledged three people who help Rev Dr Clark while he compiled the dictionary and awarded posthumous certificate of appreciation to the family members of three people – Late Edijungba, Late Suponglemba and Late Kilem Alep. Besides, the ABAM also awarded a posthumous certificate of appreciation to late Rev Dr EW Clark for compiling the dictionary which has become an important book of historical importance not only for the Aos but also for the Nagas too. The certificate of appreciation to Rev Dr EW Clark was handed over to the ABAM president and the certificate will be kept at the ABAM Mission Centre, Impur.
Representatives from the Ao Senden Literature Board (ASLB), Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) also spoke during the service. Renowned singer Anungba Sanglir also presented a tribute song to Rev Dr Clark during the service.
