tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śvetobhruvaṁ samīkṣya tu .
“Then the old woman with white clothes, on seeing Śvetabhrū, ”
Structure
tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śvetobhruvaṁ samīkṣya tu
tataḥ (then) śvetavrajā (the white-robed) vṛddhā (old woman) śvetobhruvaṁ (the one with white eyebrows) samīkṣya (seeing) tu (and)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tataḥ | tataḥ | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| śvetavrajā | śvetavrajā | noun | nominative · singular · feminine | of white robe, or with white wool; epithet of a woman |
| vṛddhā | vṛddhā | noun | nominative · singular · feminine | old, aged |
| śvetobhruvaṁ | śvetobhruvaṁ | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | one with white or shining eye-brows |
| samīkṣya | samīkṣya | verb | √īkṣ · gerund · third | having seen, having looked at |
| tu | tu | indeclinable | — | indeed, surely |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, 'tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śvetobhruvaṁ samīkṣya tu', presents an intriguing opportunity for a non-dualistic interpretation. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentaries on the Upaniṣads and the Bhagavad Gītā, often emphasizes the ultimate reality of Brahman and the illusory nature of the differentiated world. While direct commentary on this specific verse is not available from Śaṅkara, his overall philosophy can be applied here. The 'old woman with white clothes' and 'Śvetabhrū' can symbolize the Ātman and the individual self, respectively. The act of 'seeing' (samīkṣya) can be seen as a metaphor for the recognition or realization of the true nature of the self. In this context, the verse hints at the moment of introspection or self-realization where the distinction between the observer and the observed dissolves, pointing towards the ultimate Brahman-Ātman identity. This reading aligns with Śaṅkara's non-dualistic philosophy, suggesting that the true nature of reality is not in the distinctions and separations but in the unity and interconnectedness of all existence.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The interaction between the 'old woman with white clothes' and 'Śvetabhrū' in this verse can be interpreted through the lens of the Vaiṣṇava tradition as an illustration of the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, a key figure in Vaiṣṇavism, emphasized the concept of 'prapatti' or surrender to the divine will. This verse could symbolize the surrender of the jīva, represented by Śvetabhrū, to the guidance or wisdom embodied by the 'old woman with white clothes', who may symbolize the guru or divine grace. The 'seeing' or recognition can signify the moment of grace where the jīva recognizes its dependence on and devotion to Īśvara, initiating a path towards liberation. This interpretation resonates with Rāmānuja's view of the interconnectedness of all beings and the necessity of devotion and surrender for spiritual progress. Madhva, on the other hand, might view the 'old woman' as a representation of divine knowledge or intuition that guides the individual towards realizing its true relationship with the Supreme Being.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound lesson for contemporary life when viewed through the lens of Neo-Vedānta. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often stressed the importance of self-realization and the universal principles that unite humanity. The image of the 'old woman with white clothes' and 'Śvetabhrū' can be seen as symbols of timeless wisdom and the seekers of truth, respectively. The act of 'seeing' symbolizes the introspection and self-awareness that are crucial for personal growth and understanding one's place in the world. In the context of modern society, where divisions and conflicts often stem from misunderstandings and lack of empathy, this verse reminds us of the value of seeking wisdom, recognizing our shared human experience, and striving for a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. As S. Radhakrishnan noted, the essence of Vedānta lies in its universal appeal to human dignity and the search for the ultimate truth that transcends sectarian and ideological boundaries. This verse, therefore, encourages a reflection on our personal and collective journey towards a more harmonious and enlightened existence.