satyam yaśaḥ śreyaḥ puṣṭim

śreyaḥ (the best) yaśaḥ (glory) satyam (truth) puṣṭim (prosperity)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Aitareyopaniṣad, Śaṅkarācārya interprets satyam (truth) as the ultimate reality, Brahman. The pursuit of yaśaḥ (fame), śreyaḥ (excellence), and puṣṭim (prosperity) is seen as a means to realize this truth. Śaṅkara's reasoning, as seen in his commentary on the Taittirīyopaniṣad, emphasizes the importance of understanding the non-dual nature of reality. This verse points to the brahman-ātman identity by highlighting the futility of worldly pursuits and the ultimate goal of realizing one's true nature. The verse is not just a list of virtues but a pointer to the ultimate reality that underlies all existence. Śaṅkara's commentary on the Brahmasūtra also sheds light on this, where he discusses the nature of Brahman and its relationship with the individual self. The non-dual reading of this verse, therefore, leads to a deeper understanding of the self and its relationship with the ultimate reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrībhāṣya, interprets this verse in the context of the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). According to Rāmānuja, satyam, yaśaḥ, śreyaḥ, and puṣṭim are all attributes that are ultimately derived from Īśvara. The pursuit of these qualities is seen as a means of cultivating devotion and surrender to the Lord. Rāmānuja's emphasis on bhakti (devotion) is evident in his interpretation of this verse, where he sees the realization of truth, fame, excellence, and prosperity as a natural consequence of one's devotion to Īśvara. This verse, therefore, is seen as a call to devote oneself to the Lord, recognizing that all good qualities and attributes are ultimately bestowed by Him. The Vaiṣṇava tradition, through Rāmānuja's commentary, provides a devotional reading of this verse, highlighting the importance of surrender and devotion in achieving spiritual growth.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lecture on 'The Absolute and Manifestation', emphasizes the practical application of this verse in contemporary life. According to Vivekānanda, the pursuit of satyam (truth), yaśaḥ (fame), śreyaḥ (excellence), and puṣṭim (prosperity) is not just a individualistic endeavor but a universal aspiration that can bring about positive change in the world. He sees the realization of these qualities as a means of overcoming the limitations and biases that hinder human progress. Vivekānanda's emphasis on the importance of self-realization and service to others is evident in his interpretation of this verse, where he sees the pursuit of truth, excellence, and prosperity as a means of uplifting humanity. This verse, therefore, is not just a spiritual aspiration but a call to action, inspiring individuals to work towards creating a more just and equitable society. As Vivekānanda notes in his Complete Works, the realization of these qualities is essential for individual and collective growth, and their pursuit can lead to a more harmonious and prosperous world.

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