saḥ ṛṣiḥ vipraḥ iti ca yaḥ ca rājā ca devarātaḥ

saḥ (that) ṛṣiḥ (sage) vipraḥ (Brahmin) iti (thus) ca (and) yaḥ (who) ca (also) rājā (king) devarātaḥ (Devarata) ca (and)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata offers a profound insight into the nature of reality when understood through the lens of non-duality. Shankara, in his commentary on the Brahmasutras, emphasizes the concept of 'sad-vidya' or the knowledge of reality, where the ultimate reality, Brahman, is beyond all distinctions and dualities. The figure of Devarata, being a sage, priest, and king, encapsulates the triple aspects of human pursuit—knowledge (jnana), action (karma), and devotion (bhakti)—all of which, according to Shankara, ultimately lead to the realization of the Self (Atman) as none other than Brahman. This verse, therefore, symbolizes the unity of all roles and paths, pointing towards the Brahman-Atman identity. It suggests that the true self is beyond the confines of worldly designations, much like Devarata's multifaceted role transcends individual identities, leading us to the ultimate truth of non-duality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse can be seen as an exemplary depiction of a devotee who embodies the qualities of a sage, priest, and king, reflecting the versatile nature of the divine. Ramanuja, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the importance of 'prapatti' or surrender, where the individual self (jiva) recognizes its dependence on the Supreme Lord (Isvara). Devarata, as a king and a sage, exemplifies this surrender by dedicating his multifaceted roles to the service of the divine, thus illustrating the Vaiṣṇava concept of 'nishtha' or steadfast devotion. This understanding underscores the relationship between the individual self and the Supreme, highlighting the path of devotion as a means to realize one's true nature and attain liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures on the universal message of the Vedas, would often emphasize the practical application of spiritual principles in everyday life. This verse, with its depiction of Devarata in multiple roles, speaks to the modern ideal of a well-rounded individual who combines spiritual pursuit with social responsibility. Vivekananda's concept of 'serve man, serve God' finds resonance in Devarata's figure, who as a sage, priest, and king, serves both the divine and humanity. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his writings, highlights the importance of synthesizing the spiritual and the secular, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from integrating one's inner and outer life. This verse, therefore, offers a model for contemporary life, encouraging individuals to embrace their diverse roles and responsibilities as a form of service to the greater good, thereby realizing their full potential and contributing to the well-being of society.

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