kṣetrajñena tathā kṣetraṁ kṣetraṁ jānata vibhedataḥ.
“Thus, one who knows the field and the knower of the field, can know them distinctly.”
Structure
kṣetrajñena - tathā - kṣetraṁ - kṣetraṁ - jānata - vibhedataḥ
kṣetrajñena (by the one who knows the field) tathā (in that manner) kṣetraṁ (the field) kṣetraṁ (the field) jānata (knowing) vibhedataḥ (distinguishing)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| kṣetrajñena | kṣetrajñena | compound | bahuvrīhi · "kṣetra-jña-ena" | with the knower of the field |
| tathā | tathā | indeclinable | — | thus, in that way |
| kṣetraṁ | kṣetraṁ | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | the field |
| kṣetraṁ | kṣetraṁ | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | the field |
| jānata | jānā | verb | √jñā · present · second | you know |
| vibhedataḥ | vibhedataḥ | verb | √bhid · present · second | you distinguish |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Ādi Śaṅkarācārya interprets this verse as underscoring the non-dual nature of reality. The kṣetrajña (knower of the field) and kṣetra (the field itself) are ultimately one, with the distinction between them being a product of ignorance. Shankara's reasoning hinges on the idea that the jīva (individual self) is not separate from Brahman, the ultimate reality. This verse points to the unity of Brahman and ātman, emphasizing that the distinction between the knower and the known is a mere appearance. By understanding the kṣetra and kṣetrajña as one, the seeker can transcend the limitations of the individual self and realize the brahman-ātman identity.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): According to Rāmānujācārya, this verse highlights the relationship between the jīva and Īśvara. The kṣetrajña represents the individual self, while the kṣetra symbolizes the world. Rāmānujācārya's commentary emphasizes that the individual self must recognize its dependence on Īśvara, who is the ultimate controller of the world. The distinction between the kṣetra and kṣetrajña is crucial, as it allows for the devotee to cultivate a sense of devotion and surrender to Īśvara. By understanding the interconnectedness of the jīva and Īśvara, the devotee can develop a deeper sense of reverence and awe for the divine, ultimately leading to a state of loving devotion and self-surrender.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekānanda's interpretation of this verse focuses on its practical applications in modern life. He sees the kṣetra as the external world and the kṣetrajña as the individual's inner self. Vivekānanda emphasizes that understanding the distinction between the two is essential for personal growth and self-awareness. In his lectures, he highlights the importance of recognizing the limitations of the external world and cultivating a deeper understanding of the inner self. By applying the principles of this verse, individuals can transcend the constraints of the material world and realize their true potential, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. As Vivekānanda writes in his Complete Works, 'The knowledge of the kṣetra and the kṣetrajña is the knowledge of the universe and the Self, and this knowledge is the ultimate goal of human existence.'