Ayaṃ sujāto ayam eka āśayaḥ । Ayaṃ hi naḥ svastaye ।
“This one is well-born, this one is the only basis, indeed this one is for our well-being.”
Structure
Ayaṃ su-jāto Ayaṃ eka āśayaḥ Ayaṃ hi naḥ svastaye
Ayaṃ (this) su-jāto (well-born) ayam (this) eka (one) āśayaḥ (wish) ayam (this) hi (indeed) naḥ (our) svastaye (for well-being)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ayaṃ | Ayaṃ | pronoun | nominative · singular · masculine | this |
| sujāto | sujāto | compound | bahuvrīhi · "su-jātaḥ" | well-born |
| Ayaṃ | Ayaṃ | pronoun | nominative · singular · masculine | this |
| eka | eka | adjective | — | one |
| āśayaḥ | āśayaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | wish |
| Ayaṃ | Ayaṃ | pronoun | nominative · singular · masculine | this |
| hi | hi | indeclinable | — | for |
| naḥ | naḥ | pronoun | dative · plural · masculine | to us |
| svastaye | svastaye | noun | dative · singular · masculine | welfare |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Ṛgveda, Ayaṃ sujāto ayam eka āśayaḥ, is interpreted by Shankara as underscoring the non-dual nature of reality. According to Shankara, the term 'sujāta' or 'well-born' refers to the inherent purity and divinity of the Self (Ātman), which is ultimately identical with Brahman, the absolute reality. The phrase 'ayam eka āśayaḥ' or 'this one is the only basis' points to the singular, unchanging essence that underlies all existence. Shankara's commentary on the Taittirīya Upaniṣad, where he discusses the concept of 'satyam jñānam anantam brahma' (Brahman is truth, knowledge, and infinity), resonates with this verse, emphasizing the unity of all being. Thus, this verse supports the Advaita doctrine of brahman-ātman identity, guiding the seeker towards the realization of their true, non-dual nature.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava perspective, particularly through the lens of Rāmānujācārya's Viśiṣṭādvaita, this verse is seen as affirming the devoted relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). 'Ayaṃ sujāto' can be understood as the jīva's innate capacity for devotion and love towards God, which is the foundation of spiritual growth. 'Ayam eka āśayaḥ' highlights the singular focus on Īśvara as the sole refuge and basis for liberation. Rāmānujācārya's interpretation of the Brahma Sūtras, especially in discussions on the nature of Brahman as both the material and efficient cause of the universe, parallels the theme of this verse, emphasizing the personal, relatable aspect of the divine. This verse, therefore, encourages a devotional approach, where recognizing one's true nature and the nature of God fosters a profound and loving relationship between the jīva and Īśvara.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, key figures in Neo-Vedānta, would interpret this verse as a call to recognize the inherent divinity within every individual and the interconnectedness of all existence. 'Ayaṃ sujāto' signifies the potential for spiritual growth and self-realization that lies within each person. 'Ayam eka āśayaḥ' underscores the unity of all existence, pointing towards a universal reality that transcends individual and sectarian boundaries. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often emphasized the practical application of Vedāntic principles in daily life, encouraging selfless service and the pursuit of knowledge as means to realize one's true nature. Similarly, Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, highlighted the importance of integrating spiritual insight with rational inquiry and ethical action. This verse, from a Neo-Vedāntic perspective, inspires a holistic approach to life, combining spiritual aspiration with social responsibility and mutual respect, reflecting the universal and inclusive message of the Upaniṣads.