yacca sarveṣu bhūteṣu tattvaṁ paśyasi sāttvikam / yena sarvamidaṁ proktam tattvaṁ vācaḥ projāpatiḥ ॥ ९ ॥
“The essence which pervades all beings and which you see as existing in the sattvic quality, and by which all this has been spoken, is the essence of speech and the Lord of creation.”
Structure
yacca sarveṣu bhūteṣu tattvaṁ paśyasi sāttvikam yena sarvam idam proktam tattvaṁ vācaḥ prajāpatiḥ
yena (by whom) tattvaṁ (the essence) sarvam (all) idam (this) proktam (has been spoken),tattvaṁ (that essence) sāttvikam (of goodness) sarveṣu (in all) bhūteṣu (beings) paśyasi (you see),tattvaṁ (that essence) vācaḥ (of speech) prajāpatiḥ (the lord of creatures)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| yacca | yacca | indeclinable | — | and what |
| sarveṣu | sarveṣu | noun | locative plural · plural · masculine | in all |
| bhūteṣu | bhūteṣu | noun | locative plural · plural · masculine | beings |
| tattvaṁ | tattvaṁ | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | the truth |
| paśyasi | paśyasi | verb | √paś · laṭ-present · second | you see |
| sāttvikam | sāttvikam | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | sattvic |
| yena | yena | pronoun | instrumental singular · singular · masculine | by which |
| sarvam | sarvam | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | all |
| idam | idam | noun | accusative singular · singular · neuter | this |
| proktam | proktam | verb | √kṛ · past participle | has been said |
| tattvaṁ | tattvaṁ | noun | nominative singular · singular · neuter | the truth |
| vācaḥ | vācaḥ | noun | genitive singular · singular · feminine | of speech |
| prajāpatiḥ | prajāpatiḥ | noun | nominative singular · singular · masculine | the creator |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse is pivotal in establishing the non-dual nature of reality. Shankara's commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, particularly on this verse, underscores the idea that the essence pervading all beings is none other than Brahman. The sattvic quality mentioned here refers to the pure, untainted aspect of existence, which is a direct manifestation of Brahman. The phrase 'tattvaṁ vācaḥ prajāpatiḥ' suggests that speech, as an instrument of communication, is itself rooted in the ultimate reality, further bridging the gap between the individual self (ātman) and the universal self (Brahman). This interpretation supports the central Advaita thesis of the identity of Brahman and ātman, emphasizing that the ultimate reality is singular and all pervasive. By recognizing the sattvic essence in all beings, one moves towards realizing this non-dual truth, thereby transcending the limitations of the mundane world.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is often seen as emphasizing the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, for instance, might interpret 'yacca sarveṣu bhūteṣu tattvaṁ paśyasi sāttvikam' as highlighting the omnipresence of Īśvara in all beings, underscoring God's immanence. The 'tattvaṁ vācaḥ prajāpatiḥ' is understood as the Lord being the source of all speech and creation, thus affirming the idea that God is both the material and efficient cause of the universe. This interpretation underscores the devotional aspect, encouraging the seeker to develop a loving relationship with God, who is the essence of all existence. The recognition of God's presence in all beings fosters a sense of reverence and devotion, which are central to Vaiṣṇava theology and practice.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, key figures of Neo-Vedānta, would likely interpret this verse in a universal and practical light. According to Vivekānanda, the 'tattvaṁ' referred to here symbolizes the universal principle that underlies all existence, emphasizing the unity and interconnectedness of all beings. This understanding can be applied to promote harmony and peace among individuals and nations, as it transcends the boundaries of religion, race, and creed. Rādhākrishnan might further argue that the verse suggests a holistic view of reality, where the individual, society, and the cosmos are interconnected. This perspective encourages individuals to embrace their role in the larger web of life, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the world and its inhabitants. By recognizing the essence of all existence as divine, one can cultivate a deeper appreciation for life and a commitment to working towards the betterment of humanity and the environment.