sa eṣa taiḥ sarvaiḥ kriyate yogaḥ

saḥ (that) eṣa (this) yogaḥ (union) taiḥ (by all) sarvaiḥ (all) kriyate (is made)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Praśnopaniṣad is pivotal in establishing the non-dual nature of reality. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary, emphasizes that the union (yogaḥ) mentioned here is not a union between two separate entities but rather the realization of the identity between the individual self (ātman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). He reasons that if Brahman and ātman were separate, the concept of union would imply a duality, which contradicts the fundamental principle of Advaita Vedānta. Therefore, this verse points to the ultimate truth that the distinctions between the individual self and the divine are illusory, and true knowledge (vidyā) leads to the understanding that 'I am Brahman' (aham brahmāsmi). This realization is the true union intended by the Upaniṣad, underscoring the non-dualistic philosophy of Advaita Vedānta.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is interpreted in the context of bhakti and the loving relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, for instance, would see this union as the ultimate goal of human existence, where the jīva, through devotion and self-surrender, achieves a state of intimate closeness with Īśvara. This does not imply a loss of individuality but rather a fulfillment of the jīva's inherent nature to love and serve the Lord. Madhvācārya, with his emphasis on the difference between the Lord and the individual souls, would still acknowledge the possibility of a deep, loving union, highlighting the importance of grace (prasāda) from the Lord in facilitating this union. Thus, in the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as a call to devote oneself to the path of devotion, leading to a blissful and eternal relationship with God.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, key figures of Neo-Vedānta, interpreted this verse in the light of its universal and practical implications for modern life. According to Vivekānanda, this union signifies the realization of one's true nature, beyond the limitations of the ego and the material world. It is a call to self-realization, where one understands and experiences the unity and interconnectedness of all existence. Rādhākrishnan, emphasizing the ethical implications, saw this verse as an exhortation to live a life of service and compassion, recognizing the divine in every being. He believed that this realization of union leads to a more harmonious and equitable society, where individual liberation (mokṣa) and collective well-being are intertwined. Thus, in the Neo-Vedānta perspective, this verse inspires individuals to strive for spiritual growth, social responsibility, and global unity, reflecting the universal and practical dimensions of the Upaniṣadic teachings.

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