Introduction to Pali and Buddhist Philology: Basic Structure and Importance in Studying Theravada Buddhist Scriptures

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine the fundamental structure of the Pali language and the role of Buddhist etymology in accurately interpreting Theravada Buddhist scriptures. The study employs a documentary research methodology, drawing on both primary and secondary sources, including the Thai Tipiṭaka, Pali grammatical treatises, commentaries, and related academic works.

The findings reveal that the Pali language possesses a highly systematic and precise grammatical structure, serving as a crucial mechanism for preserving the integrity of doctrinal content. This structure comprises four main components: (1) orthography, which reflects a phonetic system grounded in phonetics; (2) morphology, which concerns word formation and inflection through vibhatti, affixes, compounds, and derivative formations; (3) syntax, which governs sentence structure and relationships; and (4) prosody, which regulates metrical patterns and supports the oral transmission tradition. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that an understanding of Pali from an etymological perspective enables deeper access to the meanings of the Buddha’s teachings and reduces interpretative discrepancies, particularly in relation to supramundane concepts that are difficult to convey through ordinary language. From a historical perspective, Pali functions as a linguistic repository that preserves the original meanings of the Dhamma without distortion over time.

Thus, the study of Pali is not merely the learning of grammar but also a process that cultivates analytical thinking in line with the principle of analytical discernment (vibhajjavāda) and contributes to the preservation of the intellectual heritage of Buddhism. In the contemporary context, Pali also plays an important role in digital humanities, particularly in natural language processing and artificial intelligence, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of research on ancient texts at an international level.