tatastu dṛṣṭvā ca pitṛ-vacanaṁ sutaḥ
“Then having seen the father's order the son”
Structure
tatastu dṛṣṭvā ca pitṛ-vacanaṁ sutaḥ
sutaḥ (son) tatastu (then) dṛṣṭvā (having seen) ca (and) pitṛ-vacanaṁ (father's words)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tatastu | tatastu | indeclinable | — | then, from there |
| dṛṣṭvā | dṛṣṭvā | indeclinable | — | having seen |
| ca | ca | indeclinable | — | and |
| pitṛ-vacanaṁ | pitṛ-vacanaṁ | compound | karmadhāraya · "pitṛ-vacanaṁ = pitṛ-vacana" | father's words |
| sutaḥ | sutaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | son |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, the phrase 'tatastu dṛṣṭvā ca pitṛ-vacanaṁ sutaḥ' highlights the concept of obedience and adherence to a higher authority, which can be seen as a representation of the relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). According to Shankara, the individual's perception of duality is a product of ignorance (avidyā), and the realization of the true nature of the self is achieved through the understanding of the Upanishadic doctrine of 'Tat tvam asi' (Thou art That). This verse points to the importance of recognizing and following the guidance of a higher authority, which ultimately leads to the realization of the brahman-ātman identity. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara emphasizes the need for the individual to transcend the limitations of the ego and realize the non-dual nature of reality, which is echoed in this verse. The son's obedience to his father's order symbolizes the individual's surrender to the ultimate reality, paving the way for the realization of the true nature of the self.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse is particularly significant in the context of the Rāmāyaṇa, as it highlights the relationship between Rama and his father, King Dasharatha. According to Ramanuja, the son's obedience to his father's order is an exemplary demonstration of the concept of prapatti, or self-surrender, which is a central tenet of Vaiṣṇava theology. The verse illustrates the idea that the individual (jīva) must submit to the will of the supreme Lord (Īśvara), recognizing the ultimate authority and guidance of the divine. In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Ramanuja emphasizes the importance of prapatti as a means of achieving liberation, underscoring the notion that the individual must relinquish their ego and submit to the divine will. This verse serves as a powerful illustration of the devotional reading of the Rāmāyaṇa, emphasizing the loving relationship between the Lord and his devotees.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound insight into the human condition, highlighting the importance of obedience, duty, and self-discipline in achieving one's goals. According to Swami Vivekananda, the son's obedience to his father's order represents the universal principle of 'śraddhā,' or faith, which is essential for personal growth and self-realization. In his lecture 'The Powers of the Mind,' Vivekananda emphasizes the need for individuals to cultivate a strong sense of faith and self-discipline, recognizing the importance of adherence to a higher authority or principle. This verse can be seen as a powerful metaphor for contemporary life, where individuals are often faced with conflicting demands and expectations. By recognizing the importance of obedience to a higher principle, individuals can cultivate a sense of purpose and direction, leading to greater self-awareness and personal fulfillment. As Radhakrishnan notes in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, the concept of duty (svadharma) is essential for achieving a sense of harmony and balance in life, and this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fulfilling one's obligations and responsibilities.