tatah śṛṇvān diśaḥ sarvāḥ kathām vṛttām ca mārutim

tatah (then) śṛṇvān (he hears) sarvāḥ (all) diśaḥ (directions) kathām (story) vṛttām (which had happened) ca (and) mārutim (about the messenger of the wind-god)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Rāmāyaṇa, 'tatah śṛṇvān diśaḥ sarvāḥ kathāṃ vṛttāṃ ca mārutim', presents an opportunity to reflect on the non-dual nature of reality. Shankara's commentary on the Brahma Sutras often emphasizes the importance of understanding the ultimate reality, Brahman, as the unchanging essence behind all phenomena. Here, the focus on 'mārutiṃ' (the wind) can be seen as a metaphor for the all-pervading and omnipresent nature of Brahman. By hearing the news about the deeds of the Maruti on all sides, one may infer the limitless and interconnected nature of existence, pointing towards the brahman-ātman identity. This reading aligns with Shankara's non-dualistic perspective, where the distinctions between the individual self (ātman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are ultimately transcended. The emphasis on 'śṛṇvān' (hearing) suggests a process of introspection and self-inquiry, crucial in Advaita Vedānta for realizing the true nature of the self. This verse, therefore, serves as a reminder of the all-encompassing nature of Brahman and the path to self-realization through the dissolution of dualistic perceptions.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a devotional interpretation of this verse, focusing on the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, discusses the concept of 'prapatti' or surrender to the Lord, which can be related to the act of 'śṛṇvān' (hearing) in this verse. The hearing of 'kathāṃ vṛttāṃ ca mārutim' (the news about the deeds of the Maruti) can be seen as a form of devotional engagement, where the devotee listens to and reflects upon the stories of the Lord's actions, embodied here by the Maruti. This process of hearing and reflection strengthens the bond between the jīva and Īśvara, fostering a deeper sense of devotion and surrender. Madhvācārya, from a Dvaita perspective, might interpret the act of hearing as a means of acknowledging the majesty and power of the Lord, emphasizing the distinction between the individual soul and the Supreme. In both interpretations, the verse highlights the significance of devotional practices in cultivating a deeper relationship with the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Radhakrishnan, key figures in Neo-Vedānta, would likely approach this verse with an emphasis on its universal and practical applications. Vivekānanda, known for his lectures on the practical aspects of Vedānta, might view the act of 'śṛṇvān' (hearing) as a call to introspection and self-awareness, essential for personal growth and understanding one's place in the world. The 'kathāṃ vṛttāṃ ca mārutim' (news about the deeds of the Maruti) could symbolize the myriad stories and experiences that shape our perceptions of reality and our role within it. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, often underscored the importance of realizing the universal spirit that underlies all existence. This verse, from a Neo-Vedāntic perspective, encourages the listener to embrace a holistic worldview, recognizing the interconnectedness of all phenomena and the potential for individual transformation through self-knowledge and devotion. By reflecting on the stories and deeds that fill our lives, we are reminded of our capacity for growth, our relationship with the world around us, and our inherent potential for realizing a more profound sense of unity and purpose.

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