Definition of Buddhist texts

The texts can be categorized in a number of ways, but the most fundamental division is that between canonical and non-canonical texts. The former, including the Sutras (Sanskrit) or Suttas (Pali), are held to be, literally or metaphorically, the actual words of the Buddha. The latter are the various commentaries on canonical texts and other treatises on the Dharma, as well as collections of quotations, histories, grammars, etc. Within the canonical texts, there is a chronological difference between the early Buddhist texts (the Pali Canon and the Agamas), and the Mahayana sutras. Whereas some scholars believe that some portions of the Pali Canon and Agamas could contain the actual substance of the historical teachings (and possibly even the words) of the Buddha, this is not the case for the Mahayana sutras. The scriptural works of early Buddhism precede the Mahayana works chronologically, and are recognized to be the only credible source for information regarding the actual historical teachings of Gautama Buddha.