tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śatāyur vatūr āhavaḥ

tataḥ (then) śvetavrajā (having white goats) vṛddhā (old) śatāyur (having hundred years) vatūr (possessor) āhavaḥ (of war)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śatāyur-vatūr-āhavaḥ, presents an interesting subject for non-dual interpretation. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sūtras, often emphasized the importance of understanding the ultimate reality, Brahman, as the unchanging and all-pervading essence. The appearance of a 'white-clad, aged, hundred-year-old bull' can be seen as a symbol of the timeless and pure nature of the Self (Ātman). The bull, being a symbol of virility and strength, yet described as aged and possibly nearing the end of its earthly journey, points towards the transcendent nature of the Self, which remains unchanged despite the cycles of birth and death. This interpretation aligns with Shankara's reasoning in his commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, where he discusses the nature of the Ātman as satyam (truth), jñānam (knowledge), and anantam (infinite). The emphasis on the bull's whiteness and age underscores the theme of purity and timelessness, echoing Shankara's non-dualistic viewpoint that the ultimate reality is beyond the limitations of time and space.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of this verse would likely focus on the symbolic representation of the bull as a manifestation of the divine. For Rāmānujācārya, the bull could represent the jīva's (individual soul's) journey towards realizing its inherent relationship with Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). The description of the bull as 'white-clad, aged, hundred-year-old' might symbolize the jīva's potential for spiritual growth and maturity, with the white color signifying purity and the age indicating a long and perhaps arduous path to self-realization. In the context of Vaiṣṇava theology, this verse could be seen as an allegory for the soul's quest for union with the divine, with the bull's virility symbolizing the soul's inherent capacity for spiritual potency and its ability to overcome worldly obstacles. Madhvācārya, with his emphasis on the difference between the soul and God, might interpret the bull as a symbol of the Lord's grace that guides the soul on its journey, highlighting the dependence of the jīva on Īśvara for liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. Viewing this verse through the lens of Neo-Vedānta, the 'white-clad, aged, hundred-year-old bull' can be seen as a powerful symbol of the human potential for spiritual growth and self-realization. The bull's age and virility, despite its advanced years, suggest that spiritual maturity and strength are not limited by physical age but are the result of a long and dedicated pursuit of self-knowledge. This interpretation aligns with Vivekānanda's teachings on the importance of realizing one's true nature and the potential for all individuals to attain spiritual liberation. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, known for his synthesis of traditional Vedānta with modern thought, might see this verse as an invitation to reflect on the universal human quest for meaning and the eternal, highlighting the timelessness and relevance of spiritual pursuits in contemporary life. The emphasis on the bull's purity and strength can inspire individuals to seek their own path of spiritual growth, contributing to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

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