sattvaṁ pratīṣṭhāyāṁ yad bhavet tac ca saṁpraśnasyasi
“You shall ask about what is the state of being established in sattva.”
Structure
sattvaṁ pratīṣṭhāyāṁ yad bhavet tac ca saṁpraśnasyasi
tad (that) sattvaṁ (quality) pratīṣṭhāyāṁ (in steadfastness) yad (which) bhavet (is) tac (that) ca (and) saṁpraśnasyasi (you will know)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| sattvaṁ | sattvaṁ | noun | nominative · singular · neuter | purity, goodness |
| pratīṣṭhāyāṁ | pratīṣṭhāyāṁ | noun | locative · singular · feminine | in the state of |
| yad | yad | pronoun | nominative · neuter · neuter | what |
| bhavet | bhavet | verb | √bhū · optative · third | may be, would be |
| tac | tac | pronoun | nominative · neuter · neuter | that |
| ca | ca | indeclinable | — | and |
| saṁpraśnasyasi | saṁpraśnasyasi | verb | √praśnā · future · second | you will ask |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, the inquiry into the state of being established in sattva (sattvaṁ pratīṣṭhāyāṁ) points towards the ultimate non-dual reality. According to Shankara, sattva represents the purest aspect of the mind, untainted by the influences of rajas and tamas. When one inquires into this state, they are essentially probing the nature of their true Self (ātman), which is identical with Brahman. In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Shankara notes that the establishment in sattva is a means to realize the self-luminous nature of the ātman, unencumbered by the fluctuations of the mind. This verse, therefore, serves as a catalyst for self-inquiry, guiding the seeker towards the realization of the brazhman-ātman identity, wherein the distinctions between the individual self and the ultimate reality dissolve.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse underscores the importance of cultivating a devotional attitude towards Īśvara. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes that the state of being established in sattva is a direct result of the jīva's (individual self) surrender to Īśvara. The inquiry into this state, as recommended in the verse, is seen as a means to deepen one's understanding of the relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, recognizing the former's dependence on the latter. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, views the establishment in sattva as a critical step in the realization of one's eternal servitude to Īśvara, thereby fostering a sense of humility and devotion. Through this verse, the Bhagavad Gītā encourages the seeker to cultivate a sattvic disposition, which facilitates a deeper connection with the divine.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse has profound implications for contemporary life, as it highlights the significance of cultivating a balanced and harmonious state of being. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes that the establishment in sattva is essential for achieving success in any endeavor, as it enables the individual to tap into their inner potential and strive for excellence. S. Radhakrishnan, in his writings, notes that the inquiry into the state of sattva encourages the individual to examine their values and motivations, fostering a sense of self-awareness and personal growth. In the context of modern life, this verse can be seen as a call to action, prompting individuals to strive for a more balanced and fulfilling existence, wherein they can realize their full potential and contribute positively to society. By embracing the principles embodied in this verse, one can cultivate a more profound sense of purpose and direction, leading to a more meaningful and satisfying life.