Grammatical Analysis
Ṭīkā: [f.] Sub-commentary. A Sanskritized term meaning “note,” “comment,” or “gloss.”
Orthodox Definition
If the Aṭṭhakathā explains the Tipiṭaka, the Ṭīkā explains the Aṭṭhakathā.
Centuries after Buddhaghosa translated the primary commentaries into Pāli, certain terms, grammar, and philosophical concepts within his commentaries became obscure or required further defense against competing Indian philosophical schools. To resolve this, medieval Theravāda monks—primarily in Sri Lanka during the Polonnaruwa period (12th century CE) and later in Myanmar—wrote the Ṭīkās.
The sub-commentaries are intensely scholastic, focusing heavily on Pāli grammar (vyākaraṇa), logic, and deep Abhidhamma metaphysics. While the Suttas are for practice, and the Aṭṭhakathā provides context, the Ṭīkā represents the highest level of academic monastic study. Notable authors include Venerable Ānanda (author of the Mūlaṭīkā on the Abhidhamma) and Venerable Dhammapāla (author of the Paramatthamañjūsā, the sub-commentary to the Visuddhimagga).
Textual References
- Sub-commentaries: Paramatthamañjūsā (Mahāṭīkā on the Visuddhimagga), Sāratthadīpanī (on the Vinaya commentary).