satyeṇa satyeṇa mahatāṃ nihsṛtya dehāt ātmā tu sarveṣāṃ deheṣu tiṣṭhan

satyena (by truth) satyena (by truth) mahatām (of great ones) dehāt (from the body) nihsṛtya (having departed) ātmā (the Self) tu (indeed) sarveṣāṃ (of all) deheṣu (in bodies) tiṣṭhan (dwelling)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse signifies the ultimate reality of the Self, existing beyond the limitations of the physical body and the elements. Ādi Śaṅkarācārya interprets 'satyeṇa satyeṇa' as the absolute truth that transcends the fleeting nature of the material world. The Self, being the essence of all existence, remains untouched by the cycles of creation and destruction. This understanding is rooted in the concept of non-dualism, where the individual self (jīva) is ultimately one with the universal Self (Brahman). The dismissal of the elements (nihsṛtya dehāt) symbolizes the liberation from the bondage of the physical world, allowing the Self to shine in its pure, unadulterated form. Through this verse, Śaṅkarācārya emphasizes the importance of realizing the eternal, unchanging nature of the Self, which is the hallmark of Advaita Vedānta philosophy.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a distinct perspective on this verse, focusing on the relationship between the individual self and the Supreme Being. Rāmānujācārya views 'satyeṇa satyeṇa' as a reference to the divine grace that facilitates the realization of the Self. The Self, though existing in all bodies, is dependent on the mercy of the Supreme Lord for its liberation. The phrase 'nihsṛtya dehāt' is seen as a metaphor for the transcendence of the material body, which is possible only through devotion and surrender to the Lord. In contrast, Madhvācārya's interpretation emphasizes the distinction between the individual self and the Supreme Being, highlighting the role of the Lord in guiding the self towards liberation. Both Rāmānujācārya and Madhvācārya stress the importance of devotion and surrender in achieving the ultimate goal of union with the Supreme.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The Neo-Vedānta perspective, as represented by Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, offers a more universal and inclusive interpretation of this verse. Swami Vivekānanda sees 'satyeṇa satyeṇa' as a call to realize the universal truth that underlies all existence. The Self, in this context, is not just an individual entity but a cosmic reality that pervades all beings. The phrase 'nihsṛtya dehāt' is understood as a symbol of the transcendence of the limited, ego-bound self, allowing the individual to experience the infinite and the eternal. S. Rādhākrishnan, in his commentary, emphasizes the importance of integrating the individual self with the universal Self, thereby achieving a state of harmony and unity with all existence. This perspective highlights the relevance of Vedānta philosophy in the modern world, where the pursuit of unity and universal brotherhood is paramount.

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