tasmādhi sarveṣu kṣetreṣu sarvabhūteṣu saśśrutiḥ
“Therefore in all fields and in all beings He is present in the form of listening.”
Structure
tasmāt + hi + sarveṣu + kṣetreṣu + sarva + bhūteṣu + sa + śrutiḥ
tasmāt (from Him) hi (certainly) sarveṣu (in all) kṣetreṣu (fields) sarva (all) bhūteṣu (beings) sa (that) śrutiḥ (remembrance)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tasmāt | tasmāt | pronoun | ablative · singular · masculine | from Him |
| hi | hi | indeclinable | — | for / indeed |
| sarveṣu | sarveṣu | noun | locative · plural · masculine | in all |
| kṣetreṣu | kṣetreṣu | noun | locative · plural · masculine | fields / bodies |
| sarva | sarva | adjective | — | all |
| bhūteṣu | bhūteṣu | noun | locative · plural · masculine | beings |
| sa | sa | indeclinable | — | together with / along with |
| śrutiḥ | śrutiḥ | noun | nominative · singular · feminine | Scripture / Veda |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Śaṅkarācārya interprets this verse as underscoring the all-pervasive nature of Brahman. He emphasizes that 'sarvabhūteṣu' signifies the indwelling presence of the Ultimate Reality within every being, reinforcing the non-dualistic perspective that Ātman and Brahman are one. This unity is crucial for realizing one's true nature. Śaṅkarācārya's reasoning hinges on the concept that the distinctions we perceive are illusory, and verses like these guide the seeker towards the apprehension of this fundamental truth. By highlighting the omnipresence of the divine in 'all fields and all beings,' the verse invites the contemplation of the absolute, encouraging the dissolution of the ego-bound self. This interpretation aligns with Śaṅkarācārya's broader philosophical project of establishing the identity of Brahman and Ātman, where the ultimate goal is the realization of this unity, leading to liberation.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, as exemplified by Rāmānujācārya and Madhvācārya, interprets this verse in the context of the loving relationship between the jīva (the individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary, focuses on the omnipresence of God as a foundation for devotion and surrender. He sees the phrase 'sarvabhūteṣu' as an invitation to recognize and worship the Lord in every being, promoting a path of devotion (bhakti) that transforms one's view of the world into a sacred tapestry of divine presence. Madhvācārya, with his emphasis on the real distinction between the soul and God, would likely interpret this verse as underscoring the accessibility of Īśvara in every aspect of creation, thus encouraging an active pursuit of divine grace through worship and service. Both perspectives within the Vaiṣṇava tradition highlight the personal and relational aspects of the Ultimate Reality, encouraging a devotional response to the divine omnipresence.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Radhakrishnan, key figures in the Neo-Vedānta movement, would likely interpret this verse in the light of universalism and practical application. Vivekānanda, known for his emphasis on service as a means to spiritual growth, might view this verse as a call to recognize the divine in every human being, thus inspiring selfless service and compassion. He often spoke about the importance of perceiving the divine in all, which aligns with the message of this verse. Radhakrishnan, with his philosophical background, would probably analyze this verse as an affirmation of the universal presence of the Absolute, urging individuals to seek and realize this presence in their daily lives. Both thinkers would connect the omnipresence of the divine with the imperative to cultivate a sense of unity and responsibility towards all beings, reflecting their commitment to applying Vedāntic principles to contemporary challenges and promoting a more harmonious and enlightened world.