Grammatical Analysis
Dhātukathā: [f.] Discourse on Elements. Formed by dhātu (element) + kathā (talk, discourse).
Orthodox Definition
The Dhātukathā is the third book of the Abhidhamma Piṭaka. It is a highly specialized, technical manual designed to test a scholar’s mastery of the first two Abhidhamma books.
The text takes all the phenomena listed in the Dhammasaṅgaṇī matrix and rigorously cross-examines them against the fundamental Buddhist taxonomy: the 5 aggregates (khandha), the 12 sense bases (āyatana), and the 18 elements (dhātu).
The book proceeds entirely via categorical questions and answers: “With how many aggregates, bases, and elements is the materiality aggregate included? With how many is it not included? With how many is it associated? With how many is it dissociated?” It forces the mind to view reality as a fluid, shifting matrix of empty elements rather than solid entities.
Textual References
- Canonical: Dhātukathā – The primary text, written entirely in a catechetical (Q&A) format.
- Commentary: Dhātukathā-aṭṭhakathā – A brief commentary clarifying the mathematical logic behind the classifications.