1. Bantu Languages: Swahili's core vocabulary and grammatical structure come from Bantu languages, specifically those spoken along the East African coast.
2. Arabic: The influence of Arabic is significant, particularly in vocabulary related to trade, religion, and administration. This influence came from interactions with Arab traders and settlers along the coast.
Therefore, while Swahili can be considered a Bantu language, its creation was influenced by both Bantu languages and Arabic.