Sub-commentaries (Theravāda)
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The sub-commentaries (Pali: ṭīkā) are primarily commentaries on the commentaries (Pali: aṭṭhakathā) on the Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism, written in Sri Lanka.[1] This literature continues the commentaries' development of the traditional interpretation of the scriptures. These sub-commentaries were begun during the reign of Parākramabāhu I (1123–1186) under prominent Sri Lankan scholars such as Sāriputta Thera, Mahākassapa Thera of Dimbulagala Vihāra and Moggallāna Thera.[2]
TypeSubcommentarial texts
Paracanonical texts
Paracanonical texts
ParentPāli literature
Commentary onAṭṭhakathā; Tipiṭaka
Abbreviation-Ṭ; -ṭ
| Ṭīkā | |
|---|---|
| Type | Subcommentarial texts Paracanonical texts |
| Parent | Pāli literature |
| Commentary on | Aṭṭhakathā; Tipiṭaka |
| Abbreviation | -Ṭ; -ṭ |
Types of ṭīkā
Based on their hierarchy, chronological period, and scope, ṭīkā are traditionally classified into several contrasting pairs:[3]
- Based on hierarchy
- Mūla-ṭīkā, the original or root sub-commentary.
- Anu-ṭīkā, the additional or subsequent sub-commentary (sub-sub-commentary), which further explains the mūla-ṭīkā itself.
- Based on chronology
- Porāṇa-ṭīkā or purāṇa-ṭīkā, the ancient sub-commentary (compiled during early periods).
- Abhinava-ṭīkā, the new or modern sub-commentary (compiled during later periods).
- Based on scope
- Mahā-ṭīkā, the great or large sub-commentary (broad and extensive).
- Cūḷa-ṭīkā, the minor or small sub-commentary (concise and compact).