sarvāṇi bhūtāni tvāṣṭā paśyan enaṃ paśyati sarvaḥ

tvāṣṭā (the creator) sarvāṇi (all) bhūtāni (beings) paśyan (seeing) enaṃ (this one) sarvaḥ (everyone) paśyati (sees)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where the creator and creation are ultimately one. Shankara, in his Brahma Sutra Bhashya, emphasizes that the distinction between the seer and the seen is a product of ignorance. The phrase 'tvāṣṭā paśyannenaṃ paśyati sarvaḥ' suggests that the creator, being all-pervading, is beheld by all, indicating the inherent unity of existence. This Unity is what Shankara terms as Brahman, which is also the essence of the individual self (ātman). Therefore, this verse points to the ultimate identity of Brahman and ātman, where the creator and the creation are one and the same, dispelling the illusion of duality. The non-dual reading of this verse supports Shankara's central argument for the ultimate reality being one, unchanging, and all-pervasive.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The verse from the Praśnopaniṣad highlights the intimate relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). According to Rāmānujācārya, this verse illustrates the dependent relationship between the creator and the creation, with the latter being entirely dependent on the former for its existence and sustenance. The phrase 'sarvāṇi bhūtāni tvāṣṭā paśyannenaṃ paśyati sarvaḥ' signifies that the Lord, as the creator, oversees all beings and that all beings, in turn, perceive and experience Him in various forms. This interaction underscores the concept of prapatti, or total surrender to the Lord, which is central to Vaiṣṇava philosophy. The relationship depicted here emphasizes the personal aspect of the divine, encouraging a devotional approach where the individual soul seeks to comprehend and adore the Lord in all aspects of life.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse from the Praśnopaniṣad offers a profound insight into the universal interconnectedness of all beings. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Upaniṣads, often emphasized the practical application of such verses, encouraging individuals to recognize and respect this oneness. According to Vivekānanda, understanding that 'the creator beholds all beings, and all beings behold Him' can lead to a sense of unity and compassion among people. It inspires a broader perspective, encouraging individuals to look beyond their personal limitations and strive for a more universal consciousness. In contemporary life, this verse can be seen as a call to harmony and coexistence, reminding us of our shared human experience and our place within the larger cosmos. By acknowledging this interconnectedness, we can work towards creating a more compassionate and equitable society, reflecting the universal and practical wisdom of the Upaniṣads.

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