yat karoti mahābāho rāgeṇa mahato janaḥ tat eva karoti eṣa tvadīyaṁ śreṣṭha niṣṭhayā

eṣaḥ (this person) tvadīyaṁ (your) śreṣṭha (best) niṣṭhayā (with determination) mahato (of great) janaḥ (person) rāgeṇa (with attachment) yat (what) karoti (does) tat eva (that alone) karoti (does)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Śaṅkarācārya explains that this verse highlights the non-dual nature of reality. The actions of great men, influenced by their inherent nature, are ultimately a manifestation of the universal Self, Brahman. Śaṅkarācārya notes that the phrase 'mahato janaḥ' refers to those who have realized their true nature, and their actions are therefore in accordance with the natural order. The verse points to the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman), emphasizing that all actions, whether of great men or ordinary individuals, are ultimately driven by the same universal principle. This understanding is key to realizing the non-dual nature of reality, where the distinctions between individual selves and the ultimate reality dissolve. As Śaṅkarācārya writes, the goal is to realize that 'tat tvam asi' - thou art that, emphasizing the ultimate identity of the individual with the universal Self.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets this verse as emphasizing the importance of devotion and surrender to the Lord. The phrase 'tvadīyaṁ śreṣṭha niṣṭhayā' suggests that the actions of great men are inspired by their devotion to the Lord, and are therefore characterized by steadfastness and selflessness. Rāmānujācārya notes that the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord) is one of dependence and surrender, where the individual self seeks to align its actions with the will of the Lord. This verse highlights the importance of cultivating devotion and selflessness in one's actions, recognizing that true greatness is not achieved through personal ambition, but through surrender to a higher purpose. As Rāmānujācārya writes, the goal is to develop a sense of 'prapatti' - surrender, where the individual self acknowledges its dependence on the Lord and seeks to act in accordance with His will.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of this verse in contemporary life. He noted that the actions of great men, inspired by their inherent nature, are characterized by selflessness and a sense of purpose. Vivekānanda argued that this verse points to the importance of cultivating a sense of inner motivation and purpose, rather than simply following external expectations or conventions. He encouraged individuals to tap into their inner strengths and passions, and to align their actions with their highest values and aspirations. As Vivekānanda wrote, 'the greatest men in the world are those who have been able to tap the inner sources of their strength, and to bring out the inner light that is within them.' This verse, in the context of modern life, emphasizes the importance of authenticity, self-awareness, and purpose-driven action, recognizing that true greatness is not achieved through external recognition, but through the cultivation of inner strength and character.

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