Three bhashyas (commentaries) are traditionally associated with Jain Agama literature:

• Niryukti

- What it is: A concise, problem-solving gloss that explains difficult terms and concepts in the Agamas. It often uses Prakrit and aims to clarify the original meaning. - Role: Prepares the ground for deeper interpretation by expanding technical terms and ideas found in the sutras.

• Bhashya

- What it is: The main verse-by-verse commentary on the Agama text. It states the meaning clearly and often provides one standard Jain interpretation (in Prakrit or related languages). - Role: Gives the essential arth (meaning) of the sutra verses, with connected explanations and examples.

• Vyakhyana (or secondary commentaries/Tika)

- What it is: Later expository notes or sub-commentaries that expand on the Bhashya, sometimes bringing in further context, logic, or philosophy. - Role: Deepens understanding and addresses subtler points, sometimes reflecting the school’s philosophical position.

Notes

• In both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions, bhashyas form a sequence of explanation built on the core sutras. Digambaras often emphasize the Dhavalā-type commentaries on major texts like Satkhandāgama, while Śvetāmbara traditions rely on parallel bhashya traditions for various āgamas. The exact terms and their uses can vary across texts and lineages, but the three levels—Niryukti (gloss), Bhashya (main commentary), Vyakhyana/Tika (further explanation)—are the common framework across Jain exegesis.

You can read more about Jain scriptural frameworks and aagam-related discussions here