tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śatāyur vaśinī tathā

tataḥ (then) śvetavrajā (white-robed) vṛddhā (old) tathā (thus) śatāyur (hundred-year-old) vaśinī (powerful one)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, 'tataḥ śvetavrajā vṛddhā śatāyurvaśinī tathā', presents an intriguing subject for non-dual interpretation. Śaṅkarācārya, in his exposition of the Upaniṣads and the Bhagavad Gītā, often emphasizes the ultimate reality of Brahman and the illusory nature of the world (māyā). The 'old woman with white clothes' can be seen as a symbol of the conditioned self (jīva) under the influence of māyā, with 'white clothes' signifying purity and the potential for self-realization. The term 'śatāyurvaśinī' suggests a long lifespan, which may metaphorically represent the cycle of saṃsāra, from which the self seeks liberation. According to Śaṅkara, the path to liberation involves recognizing the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman), thereby transcending the limitations of the mundane world. This verse, in the context of Advaita Vedānta, points towards the necessity of discerning the real from the unreal, leading the seeker towards the realization of the non-dual Brahman-ātman identity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of this verse centers around the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). The 'old woman with white clothes' may be seen as a representation of the jīva, which, despite its advanced age (symbolizing experience and maturity), remains under the control or guidance of Īśvara. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sūtras, emphasizes the concept of 'prapatti' or surrender to the Lord as a means to attain liberation. The term 'śatāyurvaśinī' can be understood in this context as the jīva's acceptance of its limited nature and its surrender to the will of Īśvara, acknowledging His sovereignty. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, would likely view this verse through the lens of 'dvaita' (dualism), emphasizing the distinction between the jīva and Īśvara, while still highlighting the importance of devotion and surrender for the attainment of liberation. Both perspectives within the Vaiṣṇava tradition underscore the devotional relationship between the individual self and the Divine, with this verse illustrating the jīva's path towards liberation under the guidance of Īśvara.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often stressed the universal applicability of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. This verse, with its imagery of an 'old woman with white clothes', can be interpreted in the context of human potential and self-realization. The 'white clothes' symbolize purity and the pursuit of a higher, spiritual life. Vivekānanda might see the 'śatāyurvaśinī' as representing the human aspiration for a long and meaningful life, dedicated to the service of others and the pursuit of knowledge. In his speech 'The Real Nature of the Soul', Vivekānanda emphasizes the importance of realizing one's true nature, beyond the limitations of the body and mind. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical writings, highlights the relevance of Indian thought to contemporary issues, including the quest for meaning and the importance of integrating spiritual values into modern life. This verse, from a Neo-Vedāntic perspective, encourages individuals to embrace their spiritual potential, to live a life guided by principles of compassion, wisdom, and self-discipline, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

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