Here are some key contributions:
* Standardization of Tagalog: Rizal advocated for a standardized Tagalog language, which he believed was essential for unifying the Filipino people. He worked on creating a dictionary of Tagalog words and developed a system for spelling and pronunciation.
* "Surian ng Wikang Pambansa" (National Language Commission): Rizal's work, though he never lived to see it, was a crucial foundation for the formation of the "Surian ng Wikang Pambansa" which later became the "Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino" (Commission on the Filipino Language).
* Tagalog Grammar: Rizal's writings, particularly his novels, demonstrated a deep understanding of Tagalog grammar. He used the language in a precise and elegant way, contributing to the development of a more refined and sophisticated Tagalog literary tradition.
* Promotion of Tagalog Education: Rizal believed that education in the native language was essential for national development. He advocated for the use of Tagalog in schools and encouraged Filipinos to learn their own language.
It's important to note that Rizal's work was not without criticism. Some scholars argue that his emphasis on standardization could have led to the suppression of other dialects. However, his contributions to the development of Tagalog as a national language are undeniable and have had a lasting impact on the Philippines.
In essence, Jose Rizal's contributions as a grammarian were not about inventing new rules, but about refining and promoting the use of Tagalog in a way that would lead to a more unified and educated Filipino nation.