Tataḥ śatakratuḥ tvāṣṭā puruhūtaḥ pavamānaḥ

Tataḥ (then) śatakratuḥ (one who has performed a hundred sacrifices) tvāṣṭā (the divine architect) puruhūtaḥ (the one who is invoked by many) pavamānaḥ (the purifier)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where Śatakratu, Tvāṣṭā, Puruhūta, and Pavamāna are not separate entities but manifestations of the ultimate Brahman. Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasūtra (1.1.5) emphasizes that the universe is a manifestation of Brahman, and all Names and Forms are ultimately reducible to this single reality. In this context, the verse points to the identity of Brahman and Ātman, where the individual self is not distinct from the universal Self. The mention of 'śatakratuḥ' (the one who performs a hundred sacrifices) signifies the omnipotence of Brahman, while 'tvāṣṭā' (the artisan) indicates the creative aspect of the ultimate reality. Through this understanding, the seeker realizes the true nature of the Self, transcending the limitations of the empirical world and attaining liberation. Shankara's non-dual reading of this verse encourages the aspirant to look beyond the apparent multiplicity and discern the unity that underlies all existence.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is interpreted as an expression of the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasūtra, emphasizes the concept of 'śeṣa-śeṣin' (the Lord and the servant), where the jīva is the servant of Īśvara. The mention of 'śatakratuḥ' and 'tvāṣṭā' highlights the majesty and creative power of the Lord, while 'Puruhūta' and 'Pavamāna' signify the all-pervading nature of the divine. According to Madhvācārya, the universe is the body of the Lord, and the jīva is an integral part of this body. This verse, therefore, underscores the dependence of the individual self on the Lord and the importance of devotion and surrender in achieving spiritual liberation. The Vaiṣṇava tradition encourages the devotee to cultivate a personal relationship with the Lord, recognizing the inherent distinction between the jīva and Īśvara, yet striving for a deep sense of connection and union with the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse has a profound relevance to contemporary life, as it underscores the universality and interconnectedness of all existence. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lecture on 'The Absolute and Manifestation' (Complete Works, Vol. 2), emphasizes that the ultimate reality is the essence of all manifestation, and that the individual self is a spark of this divine fire. The mention of 'śatakratuḥ' and 'tvāṣṭā' signifies the infinite potential and creativity that lies within each individual, while 'Puruhūta' and 'Pavamāna' highlight the all-pervading nature of this reality. S. Radhakrishnan, in his book 'Indian Philosophy' (Vol. 1), notes that this verse points to the concept of 'sarvam ātmā' (all is the Self), where the individual self is not separate from the universal Self. This understanding encourages the individual to transcend the limitations of the ego and recognize the inherent unity and interconnectedness of all existence, leading to a more harmonious and compassionate world.

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