What are the differences among Origen’s commentaries, homilies, and scholia?

Origen’s exegetical writings are categorized by their intended audience and depth of analysis. The differences among his three primary forms of biblical exposition are as follows:

• Commentaries: These were scholarly, in-depth expositions designed specifically for instructed Christians. They provided a rigorous analysis of biblical texts, often spanning many books, such as his extensive work on St. John and St. Matthew.1
• Homilies: These were sermons delivered to mixed congregations. Unlike the technical commentaries, homilies were intended for a broader audience of believers, making them more accessible while still reflecting Origen’s commitment to exegesis and his method of allegorical interpretation.12
• Scholia: These consisted of detached, brief comments focused on particular passages or specific books of the Bible rather than comprehensive, sustained analysis.1

While these formats differed in scope and audience, they all served Origen’s broader theological project of uncovering the deeper spiritual and moral senses of scripture, which he viewed as divine treasure hidden within literal "earthen vessels".12