tato dharmarājasya rājā putro dṛtavrataḥ

tato (then) dharmarājasya (of the lord of dharma) putro (son) rājā (king) dṛtavrataḥ (with held vows)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'tato dharmarājasya rājā putro dṛtavrataḥ,' presents an opportunity to reflect on the nature of the self. Shankara, in his commentary on the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, discusses the concept of 'dṛtavrataḥ' or firm vows, as a means to attain self-realization. In the context of this verse, the firm vows of the king, son of Yama, can be seen as a symbol of the unwavering commitment required to realize the ultimate reality, Brahman. The non-dual reading of this verse points to the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal self (Brahman), where the distinctions between the king, Yama, and the ultimate reality dissolve. Shankara's reasoning, as seen in his commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of the self, unencumbered by worldly attachments, to achieve liberation. Thus, this verse can be seen as an allegory for the pursuit of self-knowledge and the realization of the brahman-ātman identity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a devotional reading of this verse, highlighting the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, discusses the concept of 'dṛtavrataḥ' as a symbol of the devotee's unwavering dedication to the Lord. In this context, the king, son of Yama, represents the ideal devotee, who has taken firm vows to follow the path of dharma, as ordained by the Supreme Lord. The verse underscores the importance of surrendering to the will of the Lord, as embodied by Yama, the ruler of dharma. Madhvācārya, in his commentary on the Mahābhārata, further emphasizes the role of devotion and self-surrender in achieving spiritual liberation. This verse, therefore, serves as a reminder of the devotee's duty to follow the path of righteousness, as ordained by the Supreme Lord, and to cultivate an unwavering commitment to their spiritual practice.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse, 'tato dharmarājasya rājā putro dṛtavrataḥ,' holds significant relevance in contemporary life, as it underscores the importance of living a principled life, guided by firm vows and a strong sense of purpose. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the need for individuals to cultivate a strong sense of self-discipline and adherence to their values, in order to achieve their goals and realize their full potential. The concept of 'dṛtavrataḥ' can be seen as a call to action, encouraging individuals to make a commitment to themselves and to their values, and to strive for excellence in all aspects of life. S. Radhakrishnan, in his writings on the Mahābhārata, further highlights the universal significance of this verse, pointing out that the pursuit of dharma, or righteousness, is a fundamental aspect of human nature, and that it is essential for individuals to cultivate a sense of responsibility and duty towards themselves, their communities, and the world at large. This verse, therefore, serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life of purpose, principle, and self-discipline, in order to achieve personal growth, social harmony, and spiritual fulfillment.

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