sarvāṇi bhūtāni svena rūpeṇa paśyan

paśyan (seeing) svena (one's own) rūpeṇa (form) sarvāṇi (all) bhūtāni (beings)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Praśnopaniṣad underscores the non-dual nature of reality, emphasizing that all beings are to be seen in their own form, which ultimately points to their identity with Brahman. According to Shankara, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, the realization of this unity is key to liberation. The phrase 'svena rūpeṇa' (in their own form) indicates that every being has the potential to realize its true nature as Brahman. This interpretation aligns with Shankara's reasoning in his commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, where he explains that the individual self (ātman) is not different from the ultimate reality (Brahman). Thus, seeing all beings in their true form is synonymous with recognizing the Brahman-ātman identity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is often interpreted through the lens of bhakti and the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Ramanuja, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, comments on the concept of 'sva-rūpa' (own form) in relation to the jīva's ultimate realization of its dependence on and intimacy with God. This verse is seen as an encouragement to cultivate a vision where all beings are recognized as reflections of the divine, fostering a sense of love and devotion towards them as towards God. This perspective is in line with Ramanuja's broader emphasis on the path of devotion as the means to realize the true nature of the self and its relationship with the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse from the Praśnopaniṣad offers a profound lesson in universal tolerance and empathy, urging us to see every being in its own light, respecting and acknowledging its unique identity. Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of such principles, encouraging individuals to recognize the divine in every creature. This approach promotes a sense of unity and harmony among all beings, transcending superficial differences. Vivekananda's message of service to humanity as a means to realize the divine within ourselves and in others resonates deeply with this Upanishadic verse. By seeing all beings in their own form, we are, in essence, serving the divine, which is a core principle of Neo-Vedānta as articulated by thinkers like S. Radhakrishnan.

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