satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma

brahma (Brahman) satyaṃ (is true) jñānaṃ (is knowledge) anantaṃ (is infinite)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Praśnopaniṣad, Śaṅkarācārya interprets the verse 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' as affirming the non-dual nature of ultimate reality. According to Śaṅkara, the attributes of truth (satya), knowledge (jñāna), and infinitude (ananta) are not separate qualities but inherent aspects of Brahman, the ultimate reality. This interpretation is central to the Advaita Vedānta philosophy, which posits that the individual self (ātman) is ultimately identical with Brahman. Śaṅkara's reasoning, as seen in his commentary on the Taittirīya Upaniṣad, emphasizes that the realization of this identity is the key to liberation. The verse thus underscores the unity and indivisibility of Brahman, pointing towards the Advaitic notion of the oneness of all existence.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, particularly through the lens of Rāmānujācārya, views the verse 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' as establishing the supremacy of Īśvara (the Lord) as the ultimate reality. Rāmānuja, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, interprets the Upaniṣads as affirming a qualified non-dualism (viśiṣṭādvaita), where the individual selves (jīvas) and the world are real but subsistent in and dependent on Īśvara. The attributes of truth, knowledge, and infinitude are seen as qualities of Īśvara, highlighting His omniscience and omnipresence. This devotional reading emphasizes the loving relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, with the ultimate goal of achieving union or proximity with the Lord through bhakti (devotion). Madhva, on the other hand, would interpret this verse within his dvaita philosophy, emphasizing the real distinction between the jīva and Īśvara but still affirming the Lord's infinite knowledge and truth as the basis for devotion.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, views the verse 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' as a call to realize one's inner potential and divinity. In his lectures and writings, such as 'The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda', Vivekānanda emphasizes the practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life, encouraging individuals to strive for self-realization and service to humanity. He interprets the attributes of truth, knowledge, and infinitude as aspects of the human potential, which can be actualized through spiritual practice and self-inquiry. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, such as 'The Hindu View of Life', underscores the universal and perennial relevance of the Upaniṣadic message, including this verse. He sees the affirmation of Brahman as truth, knowledge, and infinitude as a foundation for a global ethic of compassion, tolerance, and understanding, applicable to contemporary life and challenges.

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