tataḥ śatakraṭau dṛṣṭvā dṛṣṭvā dharmaṃ ca pauruṣam

tataḥ (then) śatakraṭau (in the sacrificer) dṛṣṭvā (having seen) dṛṣṭvā (having seen) dharmaṃ (righteousness) ca (and) pauruṣam (manliness)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, the phrase 'śatakraṭau dṛṣṭvā' can be interpreted to signify the jīva's (individual self) observation of the multitude of actions and sacrifices, symbolizing the various distractions that divert one from the ultimate reality. Shankara's commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā (Chapter 3, Verse 25) explains how actions, although a part of the worldly life, should be performed with the understanding that they are ephemeral and not the ultimate goal. The mention of 'dharmaṃ ca pauruṣam' (virtue and manliness) suggests the qualities that are to be cultivated by the seeker of truth. This points to the brahman-ātman identity, where the individual, upon realizing the true nature of the Self, transcends the limitations of the worldly actions and achieves unity with the ultimate reality, Brahman. Shankara's non-dualistic interpretation underscores the importance of recognizing the distinction between the ephemeral and the eternal, guiding the seeker towards the realization of the ultimate truth.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse, when examined through the lens of Vaiṣṇava philosophy, particularly highlights the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the importance of bhakti (devotion) and prapatti (surrender) to Īśvara as the means to achieve spiritual liberation. The phrase 'śatakraṭau dṛṣṭvā' can be seen as an allegory for the numerous sacrifices and austerities that one may undertake in devotion to the Lord, culminating in the realization of 'dharmaṃ ca pauruṣam'. This realization signifies the cultivation of virtues and the manifestation of divine qualities within the devotee, exemplifying the transformative power of devotion to Īśvara. Madhvācārya's Dvaita Vedānta, though differing in its emphasis on the dualistic relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, also underscores the significance of devotion and the recognition of Īśvara's supremacy in achieving spiritual growth.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. This verse can be seen as a call to action, encouraging individuals to observe their lives, actions, and the world around them with a sense of detachment and an understanding of the impermanent nature of all things ('śatakraṭau dṛṣṭvā'). The reference to 'dharmaṃ ca pauruṣam' suggests the development of character and the pursuit of righteousness as essential elements of personal growth and social responsibility. In his speech 'The Message of Vivekananda', he highlights the importance of combining the ideals of renunciation and service, which resonates with the themes present in this verse. S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, further elaborates on the universal relevance of such principles, advocating for an active engagement with the world, guided by a deep understanding of one's own nature and the interconnectedness of all existence, thereby connecting ancient wisdom to contemporary life and its challenges.

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