tato rāghavasyānucaro yena gatvā mahatodayaṃ
“Then, having gone by whom, as a companion of Rāghava, he attained a great rise.”
Structure
tato rāghavasyānucaro yena gatvā mahatodayaṃ
tato (then) rāghavasyānucaro (Rāghava's servant) yena (by whom) gatvā (having gone) mahatodayaṃ (to the great rise or prosperity)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tato | tato | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| rāghavasyānucaro | rāghavasyānucaro | compound | bahuvrīhi · "rāghavasyānucaras" | the follower of Raghu |
| yena | yena | indeclinable | — | by whom, with whom |
| gatvā | gatvā | indeclinable | — | having gone |
| mahatodayaṃ | mahatodayaṃ | compound | karmadhāraya · "mahān udayaḥ" | great rise or prosperity |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara discusses the concept of Brahman and Atman being ultimately one. When interpreting this verse from the Rāmāyaṇa, 'tato rāghavasyānucaro yena gatvā mahatodayaṃ', we can see it as an illustration of the non-dual principle. Rāghava, or Rāma, represents the ultimate reality, and the companion (ānucara) symbolizes the individual self (jīva). The 'great rise' (mahatodayaṃ) signifies the realization of one's true nature, which is not separate from Brahman. Shankara's reasoning emphasizes that just as the companion of Rāghava attains a great rise, the individual self, through devotion and knowledge, can realize its oneness with the ultimate reality, Brahman. This verse thus points to the Brahman-ātman identity, central to Advaita Vedānta, where the individual's liberation (mokṣa) is achieved through the understanding of this non-dual nature.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, particularly through the lens of Rāmānuja's Viśiṣṭādvaita Vedānta, this verse can be seen as highlighting the importance of devotion (bhakti) and the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāma, as the embodiment of Īśvara, and his companion, represent the loving relationship between God and the devotee. The 'great rise' attained by the companion is interpreted as the spiritual advancement and joy that comes from serving and loving God. Rāmānuja would likely emphasize that this verse illustrates the concept of 'prapatti' or surrender, where the devotee, recognizing their dependence on God, seeks refuge in Him and thus achieves spiritual upliftment. This reading underscores the devotional path as a means to experience divine love and ultimately attain liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. This verse, 'tato rāghavasyānucaro yena gatvā mahatodayaṃ', can be seen as a call to action, inspiring individuals to embark on their own path of self-discovery and service. The 'great rise' symbolizes personal growth and the realization of one's potential. Vivekānanda might interpret the companion of Rāghava as representing the ideal of selfless service and devotion, not just to a deity, but to humanity. He would likely encourage individuals to find their inner strength and strive for excellence, just as the companion does, by following a path of dedication and hard work. This interpretation connects to contemporary life by promoting a sense of purpose and self-actualization, encouraging individuals to strive for their highest potential while serving the greater good.