etad vai khalu ekam eva tat ekam tat ekam eva āvarundhate tat ekam eva āvarundhate

etad (this) vai (indeed) khalu (certainly) ekam (one) eva (alone) tat (that) ekam (one) āvarundhate (encloses, binds) tat (that) ekam (one) eva (alone) āvarundhate (encloses, binds)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Taittirīyopaniṣad is pivotal in establishing the non-dual nature of reality, underscoring that there is no second entity apart from the ultimate reality, Brahman. Shankara, in his commentary on this Upaniṣad, emphasizes the monistic interpretation where 'ekam eva' (the One) signifies the unity and indivisibility of Brahman. The phrase 'āvarundhate' (binds itself) suggests the self-contained and self-sufficient nature of Brahman, which does not depend on anything external. This verse supports the idea of Brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self (ātman) is ultimately one with the universal self (Brahman). Shankara's interpretation leans on the concept of 'māyā' to explain the apparent duality, suggesting that the world's multiplicity is an illusion veiling the true, singular nature of reality. Through this understanding, the seeker is guided towards realizing the ultimate truth of non-duality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as highlighting the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary, interprets 'ekam eva' as denoting the singular supremacy of Īśvara, who alone is the ultimate reality. The act of 'āvarundhate' (binding itself) can be understood as Īśvara's sovereign will, which governs both the liberation and bondage of the jīvas. This perspective emphasizes the concept of 'prapatti' or surrendered devotion, where the jīva, recognizing its dependence on Īśvara, seeks refuge in Him for liberation. Madhvācārya, while agreeing on the singular nature of the ultimate reality, would likely focus on the distinction between the independent Īśvara and the dependent jīva, advocating for a path of devotion that acknowledges this fundamental difference. Both interpretations underscore the importance of bhakti (devotion) in realizing one's true relationship with the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse, in the context of Neo-Vedānta, is seen as a powerful symbol of the universal principles governing human existence. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of such Upaniṣadic truths, advocating for the realization of one's inner strength and unity with the universal consciousness. The phrase 'ekam eva' is interpreted as the call to recognize and connect with this inner, indivisible self, which is beyond the fleeting distinctions of the external world. Vivekānanda saw this realization as a key to unlocking human potential, promoting a sense of unity and compassion among all beings. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, with his philosophical inclination, would likely discuss how this verse reflects the essential unity of existence, urging individuals to transcend their egoistic boundaries and embrace the larger cosmic context. Both thinkers would relate this verse to the contemporary quest for meaning, purpose, and global harmony, encouraging a reflective and introspective approach to life.

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