Tataḥ śataguṇa varṇo ditīyasya viryataḥ.
“Then the one having a hundred times more radiance appeared.”
Structure
Tataḥ śataguṇaḥ varṇoḥ ditīyasya viryataḥ
Tataḥ (then) viryataḥ (from the power) ditīyasya (of the second) śataguṇaḥ (hundred times) varṇoḥ (the splendor)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tataḥ | Tataḥ | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| śataguṇaḥ | śataguṇaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | having a hundred-fold |
| varṇoḥ | varṇoḥ | noun | genitive · singular · masculine | of colour, or a Varṇa ( caste ) |
| ditīyasya | ditīyasya | noun | genitive · singular · masculine | of Diti's son ( referring to Hiranyaksha ) |
| viryataḥ | viryataḥ | verb | √vir · liṅ-optative or √vir + ya + taḥ ( √vir - to sprinkle; to excel ) · third | may he excel or surpass |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse 'Tataḥ śataguṇa varṇo ditīyasya viryataḥ' from the Mahābhārata points to the idea of the ultimate Reality, Brahman, being the essence of all existence. According to Shankara's commentary on the Brahma Sutras, the concept of 'śataguṇa' or a hundred times more radiance, signifies the infinite and unparalleled nature of Brahman. This radiance is not external but an intrinsic property of the Self (Ātman), indicating the non-dual nature of reality where the individual self (jīva) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are ultimately one. Shankara's reasoning in his commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, particularly in the discussion of 'Satyam, Jnanam, Anantam Brahman', supports this understanding, emphasizing that the true nature of the Self, when realized, reveals this infinite radiance, underscoring the Brahman-ātman identity.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, when viewed through the lens of Vaiṣṇava theology, highlights the majestic and divine attributes of the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, interprets such descriptions as indicative of the Lord's infinite power and majesty, emphasizing the relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Lord (Īśvara) as one of dependence and devotion. The 'śataguṇa varṇa' signifies the Lord's unparalleled excellence, inviting the devotee to contemplate on His greatness, thereby fostering a deeper sense of devotion and surrender. This understanding aligns with the Vaiṣṇava concept of 'prasāda' or the grace of the Lord, which is indispensable for the jīva to realize its true nature and attain liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekananda often spoke about the universal principles embedded in ancient Indian scriptures, applying them to contemporary life. This verse can be seen as symbolizing the human potential for growth and self-realization. The 'hundred times more radiance' represents the immense capacity within each individual to evolve and become a better version of themselves. In his lectures on 'Practical Vedanta', Vivekananda emphasized the importance of realizing one's inner strength and potential, much like the idea conveyed by 'śataguṇa varṇa'. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, highlighted the universal message of the Upanishads and the Mahābhārata, stating that such verses inspire individuals to strive for self-perfection and understand the interconnectedness of all existence. This interpretation brings the verse into the realm of personal development and spiritual growth, making it relevant to modern life.