tatastvayā havirdevaṁ ṛtvā s yathāvidhi ।
“Then, having offered the oblation to the gods in accordance with the prescribed procedure.”
Structure
tatastu + tvayā + havir + devaṁ + ṛtvā + saḥ + yathā + vidhi
tvayā (by you) devaṁ (the Lord) havir (an oblation) ṛtvā (having offered) saḥ (that) yathā (according to) vidhi (the procedure) tatastu (then)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tatastu | tatastu | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| tvayā | tvayā | pronoun | instrumental · singular | by you |
| havir | havir | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | oblation, offering |
| devaṁ | devaṁ | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | the god |
| ṛtvā | ṛtvā | verb | √ṛtv · past participle | having performed |
| saḥ | saḥ | pronoun | nominative · singular · masculine | he |
| yathā | yathā | indeclinable | — | as, according to |
| vidhi | vidhi | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | method, procedure |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, the act of offering oblation to the gods in accordance with prescribed procedures (yathāvidhi) symbolizes the performance of duties without attachment, a central theme in Advaita Vedanta. Shankara's commentary on the Brahma Sutras (1.1.1) emphasizes the importance of understanding the ultimate reality (Brahman) beyond ritualistic actions. This verse can be seen as an illustration of the preparatory stage for the realization of the non-dual Self, where the ritual (havirdevaṁ ṛtvā) serves as a means to internal purification and the development of a contemplative mindset necessary for the comprehension of Brahman-ātman identity. The ritual, when performed with the correct understanding and detachment, allows the individual to transcend the limited self and approach the universal Self, thereby facilitating the journey towards Self-realization.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets this verse in the context of devotion and the relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). According to Rāmānujācārya, the act of offering oblation to the gods as mentioned in this verse is an act of surrender and devotion to the Lord. This act is seen as a means to express gratitude and to acknowledge the dependence of the jīva on Īśvara. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of following the prescribed rituals (yathāvidhi) as a means to demonstrate one's devotion and to attain the Lord's grace. This verse underscores the Vaiṣṇava emphasis on bhakti and the practical application of devotion in daily life through ritualistic worship, highlighting the path of devotion as a legitimate means to achieve spiritual liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a practical lesson for contemporary life by emphasizing the importance of selfless action (niskāma karma) and the adherence to principles of righteousness (dharma). Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on karma yoga, often highlighted the value of performing one's duties without attachment to outcomes, which aligns with the spirit of performing rituals in accordance with prescribed procedures (yathāvidhi) as mentioned in this verse. S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical writings, emphasized the universal relevance of the Upanishadic and Vedic teachings, underscoring the idea that true freedom and fulfillment come from living a life that is guided by a sense of duty, self-discipline, and service to others. This verse can thus be seen as a call to live a life of purpose and meaning, where one's actions are guided by a higher sense of duty and responsibility towards oneself and society, embodying the principles of universal brotherhood and service.