yadi sūryaḥ yadi candraḥ yadi vāyuḥ yadi agniḥ ca yadi jalam yadi pṛthvī yadi diḥ yadi ca antaḥriksam

yadi (if) sūryaḥ (sun) yadi (if) candraḥ (moon) yadi (if) vāyuḥ (wind) yadi (if) agniḥ (fire) ca (and) yadi (if) jalam (water) yadi (if) pṛthvī (earth) yadi (if) diḥ (direction) yadi (if) ca (and) antaḥriksam (space)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where the distinctions between various elements like the sun, moon, wind, fire, water, earth, directions, and space dissolve into the ultimate reality of Brahman. Shankara's commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, particularly on this verse, highlights the concept of 'ātmaikyam' or the oneness of the self with the universe. By considering these elements as the body of the divine, the verse points to the all-pervading nature of Brahman, transcending the limitations of space and time, and ultimately leading to the realization of the identity of Brahman and Ātman. This interpretation is in line with Shankara's overall non-dualistic approach, emphasizing the illusory nature of the world and the sole reality of Brahman.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, this verse is seen as an expression of the omnipresence and omnipotence of the divine, particularly in the context of Viśiṣṭādvaita Vedānta. Rāmānujācārya interprets the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord) as one of dependence, where the jīva is inextricably linked with Īśvara, who pervades all aspects of the universe, including the elements mentioned. This verse, according to Rāmānuja, underscores the doctrine of 'śarīra-śarīrī' (the body and the embodied), where the universe and all its elements are considered the body of the divine, reinforcing the devotional path towards realizing and surrendering to the Lord. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might emphasize the distinction between the Lord and the universe, yet still affirm the Lord's complete control and presence within all elements, highlighting a dualistic yet intimately connected relationship.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, interprets this verse in a highly universal and practical light. He sees the recognition of the divine in all elements of nature as a call to expand one's consciousness, embracing the unity and interdependence of all existence. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often emphasized the importance of realizing one's true nature as part of this universal whole, thereby transcending petty differences and selfish interests. This verse, for him, symbolizes the infinite potential that lies within every individual, waiting to be unleashed through self-realization and service to humanity. He connects the universal presence of the divine in nature with the necessity for human beings to live in harmony with their environment and with each other, underscoring a message of unity, compassion, and sustainability. This approach makes the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gītā relevant and applicable to the challenges of contemporary life.

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