Tataḥ śvetaiḥ abhyāgato rathe sthitvā dharmarājñaḥ

Dharmarājñaḥ sthitvā rathe tataḥ śvetaiḥ abhyāgato

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, Yudhishthira's mounting of the chariot symbolizes the jīva's (individual self) journey towards realizing its true nature. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between the self (ātman) and the non-self (anātman). The white horses, representing purity and knowledge, signify the means by which the jīva can attain this understanding. The phrase 'dharmarājñaḥ' underscores Yudhishthira's role as a embodiment of dharma, highlighting the importance of living a virtuous life in order to realize the brahman-ātman identity. Śaṅkarācārya's non-dual reading of this verse would focus on the ultimate reality of brahman, and how Yudhishthira's actions are a manifestation of this reality. By citing the concept of 'avidyā' (ignorance) from the Brahmasūtra, Śaṅkarācārya would argue that the realization of brahman-ātman identity is the ultimate goal of human existence, and that this verse points to the means of achieving this goal.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets this verse as a manifestation of Yudhishthira's devotion to Krishna. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Mahābhārata, would likely focus on the relationship between Yudhishthira and Krishna, highlighting the importance of surrender and devotion in achieving spiritual liberation. The white horses represent the purity and innocence of the jīva, while Yudhishthira's chariot symbolizes the means by which the jīva can approach Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Madhvācārya, on the other hand, would likely emphasize the distinction between the jīva and Īśvara, highlighting Yudhishthira's role as a servant of Krishna. By citing the concept of 'prapatti' (surrender) from the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, Madhvācārya would argue that Yudhishthira's actions in this verse demonstrate the ideal of surrender and devotion to the Supreme Lord.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse can be seen as a powerful symbol of the human quest for self-realization and spiritual growth. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Mahābhārata, would likely emphasize the importance of living a virtuous and selfless life, as embodied by Yudhishthira. The white horses represent the purity and nobility of the human spirit, while the chariot symbolizes the vehicle of self-control and discipline necessary for spiritual progress. S. Rādhākrishnan, on the other hand, would likely focus on the universal and practical application of this verse, highlighting the importance of living a life of dharma and moral integrity in contemporary society. By citing the concept of 'ātmasvarājya' (self-rule) from the Mahābhārata, Rādhākrishnan would argue that this verse points to the ideal of human perfection, where the individual achieves a state of inner harmony and balance, and lives a life of service and compassion to others.

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