yacca sarveṣu bhūteṣu tattvaṁ paśyasi sarvaśaḥ । yena sarvamidaṁ viśvaṁ tattvenāvṛtam ॥ २९ ॥
“And that fundamental reality which you see as existing in all beings, that by which this entire universe is enveloped.”
Structure
yacca sarveṣu bhūteṣu tattvaṁ paśyasi sarvaśaḥ yena sarvam idaṁ viśvaṁ tattvena āvṛtam
yena (by which) sarvam (all) idaṁ (this) viśvaṁ (universe) tattvena (with the essence) āvṛtam (is covered) yacca (and which) sarveṣu (in all) bhūteṣu (beings) tattvaṁ (the essence) sarvaśaḥ (everywhere) paśyasi (you see)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| yacca | yacca | indeclinable | — | and what |
| sarveṣu | sarveṣu | noun | locative plural · plural · masculine | in all |
| bhūteṣu | bhūteṣu | noun | locative plural · plural · masculine | beings |
| tattvaṁ | tattvaṁ | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | that reality |
| paśyasi | paśyasi | verb | √paś · present · second | you see |
| sarvaśaḥ | sarvaśaḥ | indeclinable | — | completely |
| yena | yena | pronoun | instrumental singular · singular · neuter | by which |
| sarvam | sarvam | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | this entire |
| idaṁ | idaṁ | pronoun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | this |
| viśvaṁ | viśvaṁ | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | universe |
| tattvena | tattvena | noun | instrumental singular · singular · neuter | by that reality |
| āvṛtam | āvṛtam | verb | √ā-vṛ · past participle | enveloped |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where the ultimate truth (tattva) pervades all beings (sarveṣu bhūteṣu) and envelops the universe (tattvenāvṛtam). Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasūtra (1.1.1) establishes that this tattva refers to Brahman, the unchanging essence that underlies all existence. The phrase 'paśyasi sarvaśaḥ' indicates that this reality is to be perceived in all aspects, reinforcing the idea that the distinctions between individual beings and the universe are merely apparent. This verse, in the context of the Bhagavad Gītā, points towards the identity of brahman and ātman, suggesting that the self (ātman) is not separate from the ultimate reality (Brahman). This understanding is crucial for realizing one's true nature and achieving liberation (mokṣa). Shankara's non-dual interpretation emphasizes the direct experience of this unity as the path to enlightenment.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets this verse through the lens of devotion and the relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Gītā, sees 'tattva' as the divine essence that pervades all beings, emphasizing the omnipresence of God. This understanding fosters a sense of reverence and dependence on the Lord, highlighting the path of devotion (bhakti) as the means to realize one's true position within the universe. The enveloping of the universe by this tattva indicates God's comprehensive control and care, inviting the devotee to seek shelter and guidance. In contrast, Madhvācārya's dualistic interpretation might view 'tattva' as the principle of distinction, where the Lord's essence is unique and separate from the world, yet intimately involved in its governance, underscoring the importance of recognizing and reverence the Lord's supremacy.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound message of unity and interconnectedness, relevant to contemporary life. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures, often emphasized the universal principles underlying all existence, seeing the diverse manifestations of life as expressions of a singular, ultimate reality. He would interpret 'tattva' as the fundamental essence that binds all beings together, transcending the boundaries of caste, creed, and nationality. This understanding promotes a sense of global citizenship and shared humanity, encouraging individuals to work towards the common good. Radhakrishnan, focusing on the philosophical aspects, saw this verse as an affirmation of the concept of 'darshan', or the vision that perceives the universe as an integrated whole, where every part reflects the cosmic order. This holistic view inspires a life of harmony with nature and a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of relationships within the world, guiding us towards a path of sustainability, peace, and enlightenment.