Tataḥ śataguṇa vardhamānaḥ śatena vavṛdhe tadā.
“Then, growing hundredfold, he increased by a hundred.”
Structure
Tataḥ śataguṇaḥ vardhamānaḥ śatena vavṛdhe tadā
Tadā (then) śataguṇaḥ (having hundred fold) vardhamānaḥ (growth) śatena (by hundred) vavṛdhe (increased)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tataḥ | Tataḥ | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| śataguṇaḥ | śataguṇaḥ | adjective | — | hundredfold, multiplied by a hundred |
| vardhamānaḥ | vardhamānaḥ | participle | — | increasing, growing |
| śatena | śatena | noun | instrumental · singular · neuter | with a hundred |
| vavṛdhe | vavṛdhe | verb | √vrdh · aorist · third | he increased, grew |
| tadā | tadā | indeclinable | — | then, at that time |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, Tataḥ śataguṇa vardhamānaḥ śatena vavṛdhe tadā, offers a profound insight into the nature of reality when interpreted through the lens of non-duality. Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasutras, particularly his discussion on the concept of 'vṛddhi' (growth), can be applied here to understand the verse as pointing towards the inherent, unchanging essence that underlies all apparent growth or expansion. The 'śataguṇa vardhamānaḥ' or growing hundredfold, signifies the multifaceted manifestation of the ultimate reality, Brahman, which remains unchanged despite the appearance of growth. This interpretation underscores the idea that all seemingly separate entities are, in essence, the same unchanging Brahman. Thus, the verse invites the reader to contemplate the brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self (ātman) is ultimately one with the universal reality (Brahman). Through this contemplation, one may transcend the illusion of separateness and realize the non-dual nature of existence.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as an allegory for the growth of bhakti (devotion) in the heart of the devotee. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasutras, discusses the concept of 'śeṣatva' or the servant-master relationship between the individual soul (jīva) and the supreme lord (Īśvara). The 'śataguṇa vardhamānaḥ' represents the exponential growth of devotion and surrender towards Īśvara, leading to a deeper understanding and experience of the divine. This growth is not merely quantitative but qualitative, reflecting a profound transformation in the devotee's perspective and attitude towards the world and the lord. The verse thus emphasizes the path of devotion as a means to achieve spiritual growth and intimacy with the divine, highlighting the personal and relational aspect of the ultimate reality. Through devotion, the jīva transcends its limited existence and experiences liberation in the loving service of Īśvara.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the universal and practical applications of vedantic principles. This verse can be seen as a metaphor for personal growth and self-unfoldment. The 'śataguṇa vardhamānaḥ' or growing hundredfold, represents the immense potential that lies within each individual, waiting to be realized. Vivekananda would likely interpret this growth as the expansion of one's consciousness, capabilities, and compassion, leading to a more fulfilled and meaningful life. The verse encourages individuals to tap into their inner resources, to strive for excellence, and to cultivate a sense of unity and interconnectedness with all existence. In contemporary life, this message can be applied to various aspects, from personal development and education to social service and environmental stewardship. By embracing this principle of growth and self-unfoldment, individuals can contribute to creating a more harmonious and prosperous world, reflecting the ideals of universal brotherhood and human solidarity.