tataḥ śataguṇā vardhamāno gandho janayatāṃ priyaḥ
“Then the most dear fragrance that increases hundredfold was produced.”
Structure
tataḥ śataguṇā vardhamānaḥ gandhaḥ janayatāṃ priyaḥ
janayatāṃ priyaḥ gandhaḥ vardhamānaḥ śataguṇā tataḥ
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tataḥ | tataḥ | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| śataguṇā | śataguṇā | adjective | — | hundredfold, manifold |
| vardhamānaḥ | vardhamānaḥ | verb | √vardh · present participle · third | increasing, growing |
| gandhaḥ | gandhaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | smell, fragrance |
| janayatāṃ | janayatāṃ | verb | √jan · optative · third | may produce, may generate |
| priyaḥ | priyaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | beloved one, dear one |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, tataḥ śataguṇā vardhamāno gandho janayatāṃ priyaḥ, offers a profound insight into the nature of reality when understood through the lens of non-duality. According to Shankara, the emphasis on the 'most dear fragrance' that increases hundredfold suggests the unfolding of the ultimate reality, Brahman. The 'fragrance' can be metaphorically seen as the bliss (ānanda) inherent in Brahman, which is revealed as the individual self (ātman) realizes its true nature. This realization is not a creation but a discovery, akin to the fragrance becoming more pronounced, symbolizing the removal of ignorance (avidyā) that veils the true self. In his commentary on the Brahmasūtras, particularly in the discussion on the relationship between Brahman and the world, Shankara reasons that such metaphors point to the ultimate non-dual reality, where the distinctions between the individual self and the ultimate reality dissolve. This verse, therefore, supports the Advaita Vedānta position by suggesting that the true nature of the self, when realized, is of the utmost delight and is the basis of all existence.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse can be seen as an expression of the loving relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). The 'most dear fragrance' that 'increases hundredfold' can be interpreted as the grace of God, which becomes more pronounced and sweet as the devotee progresses in their devotional practice. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasūtras, emphasizes the personal aspect of God and the importance of bhakti (devotion) in realizing one's true nature and relationship with the divine. This verse would suggest that as one approaches God with devotion, the experience of divine love and grace increases exponentially, much like the fragrance. The 'production' of this fragrance, therefore, symbolizes the reciprocal relationship between the devotee and the divine, where the love and devotion of the jīva are met with an overwhelming grace from Īśvara, leading to a deeper and more intimate connection.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): From a modern perspective, this verse tataḥ śataguṇā vardhamāno gandho janayatāṃ priyaḥ, offers a universal message of potential and growth. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the inherent potential within each individual to grow and realize their true nature. The 'fragrance' in this verse can be seen as a metaphor for the innate goodness and potential within every human being. As one cultivates this inner potential, just like the fragrance that increases hundredfold, the positive qualities and the sense of fulfillment and joy in one's life also increase. This is in line with Vivekānanda's belief in the power of human potential and the importance of self-realization. In contemporary life, this verse can inspire individuals to tap into their inner strengths, nurture their capacities, and work towards their personal growth and the betterment of society, reflecting the universal and practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life.