sarvāṇi bhūtāni tva eva tvaṁ nā at-vāṁ kiñcana āsti

sarvāṇi bhūtāni (all beings) tva eva (you alone) tvaṁ (you) asi (are), nā (not) at-vāṁ (than you) kiñcana (anything) āsti (exists)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Praśnopaniṣad is pivotal in establishing the non-dual nature of reality, emphasizing that all beings are, in essence, the ultimate reality itself, Brahman. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary on the Upaniṣads, including this verse, underscores the identity of Brahman and Ātman, suggesting that the differentiation between the self and the universe is a product of ignorance (avidyā). He argues that once this ignorance is removed through knowledge (jñāna), one realizes the true nature of the self as not different from Brahman. This verse, thereby, serves as a cornerstone for the Advaita Vedānta philosophy, guiding the seeker towards the realization of the ultimate non-dual reality. Śaṅkara's commentary on the Taittirīya Upaniṣad, where he explains the mahāvākya 'tat tvam asi' (that thou art), further elucidates this concept, emphasizing the need to understand the self as an integral part of the ultimate reality, thus dissolving the boundaries between the individual self and the universe.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, particularly through the lens of Rāmānujācārya, interprets this verse as underscoring the intimate relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānuja, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, comments on similar Upaniṣadic verses, highlighting the concept of 'śarīra-śarīrī' (the body and the embodied), where the supreme being is the indwelling self of all beings, thus emphasizing a visiṣṭādvaita (qualified non-dualism) perspective. This verse, in the Vaiṣṇava context, suggests that the Īśvara is the essence of all beings, not just a distant creator but an intimate, inherent part of every jīva. Madhvācārya, with his dvaita (dualistic) perspective, might interpret this verse as affirming the distinction between the Lord and His creation, yet even in Madhva's philosophy, the inherent connection and dependence of all beings on the Lord is a central theme. This verse, therefore, becomes a devotional call, inviting the devotee to recognize and adore the divine presence within all creation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, interprets this verse as a call to realize the universal oneness that underlies all existence. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often returns to the Upaniṣads, emphasizing their practical application in achieving a universal brotherhood and understanding. This verse, to him, signifies the inherent potential in every being to realize the divine, thereby connecting the spiritual with the social and the practical. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, highlights the importance of this verse in fostering a sense of global citizenship and harmony, by recognizing the sacred in every individual. The verse, in the Neo-Vedānta perspective, invites humanity to transcend petty divisions and embrace a worldview that sees the divine as omnipresent, thus leading to a more compassionate, inclusive, and unified world. This interpretation underscores the relevance of ancient wisdom in addressing contemporary challenges, such as social cohesion, environmental stewardship, and personal growth, by providing a profound philosophical foundation for living in harmony with oneself and the universe.

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