sarva-bhūteṣu sarvadā sama-darśanaṃ

sarvadā (always) sarva-bhūteṣu (in all beings) sama-darśanaṃ (equal vision) [no kartā explicitly mentioned, implying a general statement]

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Shankara interprets this verse as a direct pointer to the non-dual nature of reality. He argues that 'samadarśanaṃ' or seeing equality in all beings is only possible when one recognizes the ultimate identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal Self (Brahman). This understanding dissolves the distinctions between different beings, allowing for a vision of unity and equality. Shankara's reasoning is rooted in the concept of 'avidyā' or ignorance, which veils the true nature of reality, leading to the perception of difference and inequality. By removing this veil through the practice of meditation and self-inquiry, as described in the preceding verses of the Gītā, one can attain the state of 'samadarśanaṃ', seeing the world with the eye of equality and compassion.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, focuses on the devotional aspects of this verse. He interprets 'samadarśanaṃ' as the vision of equality that arises from recognizing the inherent relationship between the individual souls (jīvas) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). This relationship is one of dependence and surrender, where the jīva, in its true nature, is seen as a servant or a part of the divine body of Īśvara. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, emphasizes the distinction between the Lord and the individual souls, yet agrees that the recognition of this relationship leads to a profound sense of equality and compassion among all beings. For both Rāmānuja and Madhva, this verse underscores the importance of bhakti or devotion as a means to achieve this vision of equality and to realize one's true nature in relation to the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, key figures of the Neo-Vedānta movement, interpret this verse in the context of universal application and practical spirituality. Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the importance of recognizing the divine in every being, which is the essence of 'samadarśanaṃ'. He argued that this vision of equality is not merely a philosophical concept but a practical tool for transforming individual and societal life. Rādhākrishnan, with his background in both Eastern and Western philosophy, saw this verse as a bridge between the spiritual and the secular, advocating for a worldview that combines the pursuit of spiritual unity with the principles of social justice and equality. For both, this verse from the Bhagavad Gītā is a powerful reminder of the potential for human transformation and the realization of a more harmonious and equitable world.

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