| ´Bëlï | |
|---|---|
| Jur ’Bëlï | |
| Native to | South Sudan |
Native speakers | 65,000 (2009)[1] |
| Language codes | |
| ISO 639-3 | blm |
| Glottolog | beli1257 |
| ELP | Beli (Sudan) |
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Lang_Status_60-DE.svg) Beli is classified as Definitely Endangered by the UNESCO Atlas of the World's Languages in Danger | |
´Bëlï, or Jur Beli, is a Central Sudanic language spoken by the Beli and Sopi people of South Sudan. The Beli people are mainly found in South Sudan, a region southeast of Rumbek.[2] The language is considered as endangered, and it is mostly spoken by the older generation.
However, it has three dialects and variations that are specific to different regions and communities. The language has a complex grammatical structure, with a rich system of prefixes that are used to indicate various grammatical features, such as, mood, and aspect.
Despite the lack of written material and limited use, Jur Beli is an important language for the Beli people, as it is an essential part of their cultural identity. The language serves as an important means of communication within the community, and it is used to transmit cultural knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next.
- ^ ´Bëlï at Ethnologue (18th ed., 2015) (subscription required)
- ^ "Ethnologue. Languages of the World". African Studies Companion Online. doi:10.1163/_afco_asc_441. Retrieved 2023-02-05.