History of Hindu Mathematics: A Source Book v1.c7.s4.34

v1.c7.s4.34

In the Sanskrit language the arrangement is that when a number expression is composed of the first two denominations only, the smaller element is spoken first, but when it is composed also of higher denominations, the bigger elements precede the smaller ones, the order of the first two denominations remaining as before. Thus, if a number expression contains the first four denominations, the normal mode of expression would be to say the thousands first, then hundreds, then units and then tens. It will be observed that there is a sudden change of order in the process of formation of the number expression when we go beyond hundred. The change of order, however, is common to most of the important languages of the world.¹ Nothing definite appears to be known as to the cause of this sudden change.