Satyam vada. Dharmam cara. Na vidyāt svādhyāyāt.
“Speak the truth, follow dharma, and do not neglect self-study.”
Structure
Satyam vada Dharmam cara Na vidyāt svādhyāyāt
Vada (you should speak) satyam (truth) cara (follow) dharmam (righteousness) Svādhyāyāt (from/study of self/scripture) na vidyāt (do not deviate)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Satyam | Satyam | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | truth |
| vada | vadā | verb | √vad · laṭ-present · second | speak |
| Dharmam | Dharmam | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | righteousness |
| cara | carā | verb | √car · laṭ-present · second | follow |
| Na | Nā | indeclinable | — | not |
| vidyāt | vidyāt | verb | √vid · liṅ-optative · third | let him know |
| svādhyāyāt | svādhyāyāt | noun | ablative · singular · masculine | from study of the self |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse Satyam vada. Dharmam cara. Na vidyāt svādhyāyāt underscores the importance of truthfulness, adherence to dharma, and self-study in the pursuit of ultimate reality. According to Ādi Śaṅkarācārya, speaking the truth is not merely a moral virtue but a means to realize the absolute truth, which is Brahman. Following dharma is essential for maintaining social order and ensuring the well-being of all beings. Self-study, or svādhyāya, is crucial for gaining a deeper understanding of the scriptures and the ultimate reality. By embracing these three principles, the seeker can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. In the context of Advaita Vedānta, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life grounded in truth, duty, and self-inquiry.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, the verse Satyam vada. Dharmam cara. Na vidyāt svādhyāyāt is seen as a prescription for devotional living. Rāmānujācārya and Madhvācārya, prominent exegetes of this tradition, emphasize the importance of truthfulness and adherence to dharma as a means of cultivating devotion to the supreme Lord. Speaking the truth is considered an act of devotion, while following dharma is seen as a way of pleasing the Lord. Self-study, or svādhyāya, is viewed as a means of deepening one's understanding of the scriptures and the nature of the divine. By following these principles, the devotee can develop a profound sense of devotion and ultimately attain the grace of the Lord. In this tradition, the verse is often cited as a reminder of the importance of living a life of truth, duty, and devotion.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The verse Satyam vada. Dharmam cara. Na vidyāt svādhyāyāt has been interpreted in the context of modern Indian thought by scholars like Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan. According to this perspective, the verse represents a call to action, encouraging individuals to live a life of integrity, social responsibility, and intellectual curiosity. Speaking the truth is seen as a means of promoting honesty and transparency in personal and public life. Following dharma is viewed as a way of cultivating a sense of social responsibility and promoting the common good. Self-study, or svādhyāya, is considered essential for personal growth and development, enabling individuals to critically evaluate their beliefs and values. By embracing these principles, individuals can contribute to the creation of a more just and equitable society, and ultimately, achieve a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose.