tat puruṣāya viṣṇave yajāmahe

yajāmahe (we sacrifice) tat puruṣāya (to that Person) viṣṇave (to Viṣṇu)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, tatpuruṣāya viṣṇave yajāmahe, when understood in the context of non-dualism, points to the ultimate reality, Brahman, as the object of worship. Shankara's commentary on the Upanishads, such as the Taittiriya Upanishad, emphasizes the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal self (Brahman). In this light, the Purusha mentioned in the verse is not a separate deity but a representation of the ultimate, all-encompassing Brahman. The act of sacrifice (yajāmahe) here signifies the surrender of the ego and the realization of one's true nature as Brahman. This interpretation underscores the non-dual reading of the verse, where the distinctions between the worshipper, the act of worship, and the worshipped dissolve into the unity of Brahman. Shankara's reasoning on similar passages, such as his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, further clarifies that such verses aim to guide the seeker towards this profound understanding of unity and non-duality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as an expression of devotion to Vishnu, the Supreme Lord. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, emphasizes the concept of prapatti or surrender to the Lord, which is a central theme in Vaiṣṇava theology. The act of sacrificing to Purusha, who is identified as Vishnu, signifies the devotee's complete surrender and dedication to the Lord. This interpretation focuses on the loving relationship between the jīva (the individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord), where the jīva seeks refuge and liberation through devotion to Īśvara. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might interpret this verse in the context of his Dvaita Vedanta, emphasizing the distinction between the Lord and the devotee, yet both schools agree on the paramount importance of devotion and worship as a means to achieve spiritual liberation and realize one's true relationship with the Supreme Being.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical and universal application of Vedantic principles in everyday life. This verse, in the context of Neo-Vedānta, can be seen as a call to realize one's higher self and to strive for a life of service and sacrifice, not just to a deity but to the universal good. Vivekānanda, in his speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions, highlighted the importance of selfless work and the pursuit of knowledge as means to achieve spiritual growth. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed the concept of the universal Self and the importance of recognizing the divine in every being. This verse, therefore, encourages the individual to transcend personal limitations and to offer one's life as a sacrifice to the greater good, realizing the inherent unity and divinity in all existence. This interpretation aligns with the modern emphasis on service, compassion, and the pursuit of spiritual growth through practical application of ancient wisdom.

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