praśāsitāni devaiṣtānī yāni kṣetrāṇi tāni ha
“These fields are controlled by the gods.”
Structure
praśāsitāni - devaiḥ - tāni - yāni - kṣetrāṇi - tāni - ha
devaiḥ (by the gods) praśāsitāni (ruled) tāni (those) yāni (which) kṣetrāṇi (fields) tāni (those) ha (indeed)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| praśāsitāni | praśāsitāni | verb | √śās · tā-kāra (past participle) · third | ruled, governed |
| devaiḥ | devaiḥ | noun | instrumental · plural · masculine | by the gods |
| tāni | tāni | pronoun | accusative · plural · neuter | them, those |
| yāni | yāni | pronoun | nominative · plural · neuter | which, what |
| kṣetrāṇi | kṣetrāṇi | noun | accusative · plural · neuter | fields, areas |
| tāni | tāni | pronoun | nominative · plural · neuter | those |
| ha | ha | indeclinable | — | indeed, certainly |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Shankara explains this verse as an indication of the non-dual nature of reality. The fields controlled by the gods symbolize the various realms of existence, which are ultimately manifestations of Brahman. Shankara notes that the verse suggests a hierarchy of control, with the gods being inferior to the ultimate reality, Brahman. This hierarchy is not a separation but an expression of the multifaceted nature of Brahman. The phrase 'praśāsitāni devaiḥ' (controlled by the gods) is seen as a pointer to the idea that even the gods are under the control of Brahman, reinforcing the concept of brahman-ātman identity. Thus, this verse serves as a reminder of the all-encompassing and unified nature of reality, guiding the seeker towards the understanding of the ultimate non-duality.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interpretation of this verse focuses on the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). The fields controlled by the gods are seen as the various realms where the jīvas exist and interact, under the supervision of Īśvara. Rāmānujācārya emphasizes that this verse highlights the dependency of all existence on the will of the Supreme Lord, who works through the gods. This dependency is not a sign of weakness but rather an indicator of the loving and providential nature of Īśvara. The verse thus encourages devotion and surrender to the Supreme, recognizing His omnipresence and control over all aspects of life. This understanding fosters a deep sense of reverence and dependence, central to the Vaiṣṇava tradition.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical and universal applications of Vedāntic teachings. Regarding this verse, Vivekānanda would likely highlight the concept of divine control as a metaphor for the innate wisdom and order that govern the universe. The fields controlled by the gods symbolize the harmonious and interconnected nature of existence, where every aspect is interconnected and under the guidance of a higher principle. Vivekānanda might interpret this as a call to recognize and align oneself with this universal order, leading to a life of greater harmony, balance, and purpose. He would encourage individuals to see beyond the surface level of mere divine control and instead understand the verse as an exhortation to realize one's own divine nature and role within the cosmic scheme, thus promoting a sense of unity, service, and self-realization.