teṣāṁ sadā parituṣṭānāṁ hari-vācana-parasmin ātmānaṁ hi anutpannaṁ darśayan ātmanāḥ prabhuḥ

prabhuḥ (the Lord) ātmanāḥ (of His Self) ātmānaṁ (Himself) hi (indeed) anutpannaṁ (as unborn) darśayan (showing) teṣāṁ (of those) sadā (always) parituṣṭānāṁ (who are satisfied) hari-vācana-parasmin (in the words of Hari)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where the distinction between the individual self (ātman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) is transcended. Shankara's commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā highlights the significance of the phrase 'ātmanāṁ hi anutpannaṁ darśayan' as indicating that the unborn, uncreated essence of all beings is revealed to those who are fully devoted to the Lord's words. This revelation points to the identity of Brahman and ātman, emphasizing that the ultimate truth is not a personal deity but the impersonal, all-pervading consciousness. Through this understanding, the individual self realizes its true nature as being unborn and eternal, thus achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This verse, in the context of Advaita Vedānta, serves as a reminder of the path to self-realization, where the devotee, through dedication and knowledge, comes to understand the non-dual nature of existence.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as an affirmation of the personal relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets the phrase 'hari-vācana-parasmin' as signifying the total dependence of the devotee on the Lord's words, which leads to a deepening of devotion and ultimately, the revelation of the Lord's true nature. This verse highlights the grace of the Lord in revealing Himself to those who are sincerely devoted, indicating a path of bhakti (devotion) as the means to achieve spiritual liberation. The relationship between the jīva and Īśvara is one of mutual love and dependence, where the Lord guides and protects the devotee, and the devotee offers loving service and surrender. This personal and devotional interpretation emphasizes the role of faith and surrender in achieving spiritual realization.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the universal and practical applications of Vedāntic principles. Regarding this verse, he might interpret it as a call to recognize the divine within oneself and all beings, emphasizing the importance of self-realization and the pursuit of spiritual growth. The phrase 'ātmanāṁ hi anutpannaṁ darśayan' could be seen as a reminder of the eternal and unborn nature of the self, which is beyond the limitations of the material world. This understanding can lead to a sense of unity and solidarity among all beings, transcending external differences. In contemporary life, this verse can inspire individuals to seek a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, beyond material pursuits, and to cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. It urges us to look within, to discover our true nature, and through this self-discovery, to find peace, harmony, and liberation.

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