tataḥ śatagatho rājā virāṭo janapadādhipaḥ

tataḥ (then) śatagatho (of Shatagathi) rājā (king) virāṭo (Virata) janapada-adhipaḥ (of the Janapada, lord/king)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, the phrase 'tataḥ śatagatho rājā virāṭo' signifies the manifestation of the universal Self, Brahman, in the form of the king Virata. According to Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasutras, particularly in the section discussing the relationship between the individual self (jiva) and the ultimate reality (Brahman), we see that all actions and events, including the knowledge of King Virata, are ultimately a manifestation of Brahman. The realization of 'janapadādhipaḥ' (ruler of the Matsyas) points to the understanding that all distinctions, including those of rulership and kingdom, are ephemeral and illusory, leading to the ultimate non-dual reality where the distinction between the individual self and Brahman dissolves. This verse, therefore, encourages the reader to look beyond the superficial levels of existence and perceive the unity of all beings in Brahman.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The mention of 'rājā virāṭo' in this verse can be seen as an example of the jīva's (individual soul's) relationship with Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Ramanuja, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, particularly in the discussion of the yoga of devotion (Bhakti Yoga), highlights the importance of recognizing the Lord's presence in all beings, including kings like Virata. The term 'janapadādhipaḥ' signifies the Lord's sovereignty over all realms, emphasizing the dependence of all rulers, including Virata, on the divine will. This verse thus underscores the Vaiṣṇava perspective of a personal God who is both the ruler of the universe and the indwelling Self of all beings, encouraging devotion and surrender to the Supreme Lord.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound insight into the nature of knowledge and power. Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures on the 'Universal Application of the Vedanta', emphasized the importance of realizing one's true nature and potential, much like King Virata coming to know his position as 'janapadādhipaḥ'. The recognition of one's role and responsibility in society, as hinted at in this verse, is crucial for personal and societal progress. Radhakrishnan, in his writings on 'The Philosophy of the Upanishads', noted that such realizations lead to a broader understanding of the interconnectedness of all human experiences, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation. Thus, this verse encourages a contemporary audience to reflect on their own place within the larger social fabric, striving for a harmonious balance between individual aspirations and collective well-being.

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