Dharma e - kṣetre - jagataḥ - sthite - sarva - bhūtāni - samāhṛtya

Dharmaḥ (righteousness) e (in) kṣetre (the field) jagataḥ (of the world) sthite (being situated) sarva (all) bhūtāni (beings) samāhṛtya (having gathered)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'Dharma e kṣetre jagataḥ sthite sarvabhūtāni samāhṛtya,' points to the ultimate reality of Brahman-ātman identity. According to Shankara, when Dharma is established in the field of the world, it signifies the presence of the universal principle (dharma) that underlies all existence. This dharma is not merely a moral or ethical code but is essentially the expression of the Ultimate Reality, Brahman. The gathering of all beings (sarvabhūtāni samāhṛtya) suggests a unity and interconnectedness that transcends individual differences, indicating the non-dual nature of reality. Shankara's commentary on the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 3, Verse 35) supports this interpretation, where he explains that the performance of one's duty (svadharma) leads to the realization of the Self, which is the ultimate goal. This verse, therefore, invites the reader to contemplate the unified field of existence, where Dharma, the world, and all beings are interconnected manifestations of the one Brahman.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as emphasizing the importance of Dharma in the context of the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, interprets Dharma as the means by which the jīva can attain liberation through devotion to Īśvara. The phrase 'jagataḥ sthite' suggests the Lord's presence in the world, overseeing the establishment of Dharma. The gathering of all beings (sarvabhūtāni samāhṛtya) is seen as a call to recognize the unity of all existence under the lordship of Īśvara, emphasizing the doctrine of viśiṣṭādvaita (qualified non-dualism), where the individual selves and the world are distinct yet inseparable from the ultimate reality of Brahman. This interpretation highlights the devotional aspect, where the establishment of Dharma is a means to cultivate love and devotion towards the Lord, facilitating the liberation of the jīva.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound message for contemporary life, emphasizing the universal principles of Dharma and unity. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Vedanta, often stressed the importance of realizing the oneness of all existence, which is reflected in the phrase 'sarvabhūtāni samāhṛtya.' He argued that true strength and progress can only be achieved by recognizing and embracing this unity, which is the essence of Dharma. The establishment of Dharma in the field of the world signifies a call to action, encouraging individuals to work towards creating a more just and harmonious society. S. Radhakrishnan, in his writings, further elaborates on this idea, suggesting that Dharma is not just a personal virtue but a universal principle that guides human conduct towards the greater good. This verse, therefore, serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the need to strive for a world where the principles of justice, compassion, and unity are upheld, reflecting the universal and practical application of Vedantic thought in modern life.

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