yogārūḍhasya tasya evaṁ sañjātasya mahātmanaḥ

tasya mahātmanaḥ evaṁ sañjātasya yogārūḍhasya

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Shankara interprets yogārūḍhasya as the state of being established in yoga, which is the direct experience of the non-dual Reality, Brahman. He explains that this verse describes the great soul (mahātmanaḥ) who has achieved this state, implying a direct identity between the individual self (ātman) and the ultimate Reality (Brahman). Shankara's reasoning is rooted in the notion that the realization of this identity is the ultimate goal of yoga, as it leads to the transcendence of the ego and the attainment of liberation. This verse, therefore, underscores the central theme of Advaita Vedānta: the realization of the non-dual nature of Reality, where the individual self is not separate from the ultimate Reality. By citing the example of the great soul, Shankara highlights the possibility of achieving this state through the practice of yoga, leading to the direct experience of the brahman-ātman identity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): Ramanuja, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets this verse as describing the state of the devotee who has surrendered to the Lord (Īśvara) and has achieved a profound sense of devotion and self-surrender. According to Ramanuja, the phrase yogārūḍhasya refers to the state of being established in the yoga of devotion, where the individual self (jīva) is in a loving relationship with the Lord. This verse highlights the importance of devotion and self-surrender in achieving spiritual liberation. Ramanuja's commentary emphasizes the personal aspect of the divine and the devotee's relationship with Īśvara, underscoring the idea that the ultimate goal is not just liberation but a loving union with the Lord. The great soul (mahātmanaḥ) is one who has achieved this state of devotion, and this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating a deep sense of devotion and self-surrender in one's spiritual practice.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Vivekananda interprets this verse as a call to practical spirituality, emphasizing the importance of yoga as a means to achieve a higher state of consciousness. He sees the phrase yogārūḍhasya as a description of the individual who has mastered the art of controlling the mind and has achieved a state of inner calm and balance. According to Vivekananda, this verse highlights the universal and practical application of yoga, which is not limited to any particular tradition or sect. In his lectures and writings, Vivekananda often cited the example of the great soul (mahātmanaḥ) who has achieved this state, as a reminder of the human potential for spiritual growth and self-realization. He emphasized that this state is not just a theoretical concept but a practical reality that can be achieved through dedication and perseverance. By applying the principles of yoga in daily life, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of awareness, compassion, and understanding, leading to a more harmonious and balanced existence.

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