satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma

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

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Taittirīyopaniṣad, Shankara interprets the verse 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' as establishing the non-dual nature of reality. According to Shankara, 'satyaṃ' or truth, refers to the ultimate reality that is unchanging and eternal, which is Brahman. 'Jñānaṃ' or knowledge, signifies the consciousness that is inherent in Brahman. 'Anantaṃ' or infinite, indicates that Brahman is limitless and all-pervading. Shankara's reasoning on this verse underscores the identity of Brahman and Ātman, where the individual self (Ātman) is not separate from the ultimate reality (Brahman). This verse, therefore, points to the ultimate goal of Advaita Vedānta - the realization of the non-dual identity of the self and Brahman, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Shankara's commentary on this verse is consistent with his overall philosophical stance, emphasizing the importance of self-inquiry and the realization of the true nature of the self.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, as represented by Rāmānujācārya and Madhvācārya, approaches the verse 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' with a devotional emphasis. Rāmānuja, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, interprets 'satyaṃ' as the truthful and loving nature of the Supreme Being, Īśvara. 'Jñānaṃ' represents the knowledge that is both inherent in and bestowed by Īśvara, guiding the jīva (individual self) towards liberation. 'Anantaṃ' signifies the infinite and all-pervading nature of Īśvara, who is the source of all existence. Madhva, on the other hand, views this verse in the context of the distinction between the independent Īśvara and the dependent jīva, emphasizing the importance of devotion and surrender to attain the grace of Īśvara. Both Rāmānuja and Madhva's interpretations highlight the relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, with 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' underscoring the attributes of the Supreme that facilitate the jīva's journey towards spiritual liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the universal and practical application of the Upaniṣadic teachings, including the verse 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma'. He saw this verse as a call to realize one's true nature, which is infinite and all-pervading, much like Brahman. Vivekānanda believed that the pursuit of truth (satyaṃ) and knowledge (jñānaṃ) is essential for individual and societal progress. In his speech at the World's Parliament of Religions in 1893, he highlighted the importance of realizing the divine within, which is the infinite (anantaṃ) and ultimate reality (brahma). Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, interpreted this verse as affirming the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, who is a spark of the divine. According to Rādhākrishnan, the realization of 'satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma' is crucial for achieving harmony and understanding in the modern world, as it underscores the unity and interconnectedness of all existence.

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