Dharma eva hi tātaś ca svadharmaḥ paripaṇthināḥ

Yasya (whose) dharma eva (dharma alone) hi (indeed) tātaś (son) ca (and) hato (was killed) paripaṇthināḥ (by a straying from one's own path) svadharmaḥ (own dharma)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, 'Dharma eva hi tātaś ca svadharmaḥ paripaṇthināḥ', points to the ultimate reality that lies beyond the duality of right and wrong, or dharma and adharma. Śaṅkarācārya, in his Brahmasūtrabhāṣya, emphasizes the importance of understanding one's svadharma, or own duty, as a means to attain the knowledge of Brahman. When one's brother is killed in the cause of dharma, it highlights the impermanence of all worldly relations and the futility of clinging to them. This serves as a reminder to focus on the realization of the brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self (ātman) is understood to be one with the ultimate reality (Brahman). By letting go of attachments to worldly dharmas, one can attain the knowledge of this non-dual reality, as emphasized in the Upaniṣads and the Bhagavadgītā. Through the lens of Advaita Vedānta, this verse encourages the seeker to look beyond the limitations of worldly dharma and strive for the ultimate liberation (mokṣa) that comes from realizing the true nature of the Self.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a devotional perspective on this verse, highlighting the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrībhāṣya, interprets the concept of svadharma as the duty of the individual to dedicate themselves to the service of the Lord. When one's brother is killed in the cause of dharma, it serves as a reminder of the Lord's ultimate control over all events and the futility of human efforts without His sanction. This understanding leads to a deeper sense of dependence on the Lord and a recognition of one's own limitations. Madhvācārya, in his commentary on the Mahābhārata, emphasizes the importance of self-surrender (prapatti) to the Lord, which is facilitated by the realization of one's own helplessness in the face of adversity. Through this devotional lens, the verse encourages the seeker to cultivate a sense of dependence on the Lord and to strive for a loving relationship with Him, recognizing that true dharma lies in serving and loving the Supreme Being.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): From a modern perspective, this verse offers a profound insight into the human condition and the nature of duty (dharma). Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Bhagavadgītā, emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own dharma as a means to achieve self-actualization and contribute to the greater good. When one's brother is killed in the cause of dharma, it highlights the complexity of human relationships and the need to reconcile personal duties with universal principles. S. Rādhākrishnan, in his book 'The Bhagavadgītā', notes that the concept of svadharma is not limited to individual actions but encompasses the broader social and moral responsibilities that come with being human. This verse encourages the individual to reflect on their own role in the world, to recognize the interconnectedness of all beings, and to strive for a sense of unity and harmony that transcends narrow personal interests. By embracing this universal and practical application of dharma, one can cultivate a sense of purpose and direction, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

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