Na pravekṣyam iti ca yatpratiśrutya svayam eva tat । kriyate vihitam anākulaṃ tad viśvāsaghātakaṃ parasya .
“When someone makes a promise saying 'I will not enter', and then does exactly that, it destroys the trust of the other person.”
Structure
Na praveḍhyam iti ca yat pratiśrutya svayam eva tat kriyate vihitam anākulam tad viśvāsaghātakaṃ parasya
Parasya(of another person)viśvāsa-ghātakaṃ(a betrayer of trust)tat(that)svayam eva(himself alone)pratiśrutya(having promised)na praveḍhyam iti ca(not to enter, thus)yat(what)vihitam(has been done)anākulam(without disturbance)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| praveḍhyam | praveḍhyam | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | entry, access |
| iti | iti | indeclinable | — | saying, thus |
| ca | ca | indeclinable | — | and |
| yat | yat | pronoun | accusative · singular · neuter | what |
| pratiśrutya | pratiśrutya | indeclinable | — | having promised |
| svayam | svayam | indeclinable | — | oneself |
| eva | eva | indeclinable | — | indeed |
| tat | tat | pronoun | accusative · singular · neuter | that |
| kriyate | kriyate | verb | √kṛ · present passive · third | is done |
| vihitam | vihitam | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | decree, rule |
| anākulam | anākulam | indeclinable | — | smooth, easy |
| tad | tad | pronoun | nominative · singular · neuter | that |
| viśvāsaghātakaṃ | viśvāsaghātakaṃ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | betrayer of trust |
| parasya | parasya | noun | genitive · singular · masculine | of another, other's |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the importance of integrity and trust in personal relationships, which is a fundamental aspect of realizing the non-dual nature of reality. According to Shankara, the destruction of trust (viśvāsaghātakaṃ) alludes to the fragmentation of the self, which is a product of ignorance (avidyā). When an individual fails to keep their promises, it perpetuates a sense of separation and reinforces the ego-bound consciousness. In contrast, upholding one's commitments fosters a sense of unity and interconnectedness, facilitating the recognition of the ultimate reality, Brahman. Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasūtra (4.1.3) highlights the significance of self-control and truthfulness in attaining liberation, which is echoed in this verse. By embracing the principles of trust and integrity, one can transcend the limitations of the ego and realize the Brahman-ātman identity.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): This verse is a poignant reminder of the importance of faithfulness and trust in the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya (2.2.12), emphasizes the need for the jīva to cultivate unwavering devotion and surrender to Īśvara, which is rooted in trust and faith. When an individual breaches trust, it creates a rift in this relationship, hindering the jīva's ability to experience the divine love and grace of Īśvara. This verse serves as a cautionary tale, urging the jīva to be mindful of their actions and to prioritize the cultivation of trust and faith in their relationship with the Supreme. By doing so, the jīva can deepen their connection with Īśvara and ultimately attain liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): This verse offers a powerful insight into the importance of personal integrity and trust in modern life. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lecture 'The Powers of the Mind' (Complete Works, Vol. 3), highlights the need for individuals to cultivate self-awareness, self-control, and truthfulness in order to realize their full potential. The destruction of trust, as described in this verse, can have far-reaching consequences, eroding the foundations of personal relationships, communities, and societies. In contrast, upholding one's commitments and being truthful fosters a sense of mutual respect, empathy, and cooperation. This verse serves as a reminder of the universal importance of trust and integrity, urging individuals to prioritize these values in their personal and professional lives. By embracing these principles, individuals can build stronger, more resilient relationships and contribute to the creation of a more harmonious and equitable world.