satyam vada. dharmaṃ cara. na hiṃsyād idaṃ vāva.
“Speak the truth, follow dharma, and harm none.”
Structure
satyam vada dharmaṃ cara na hiṃsyāt idaṃ vāva
tvam satyam vada tvam dharmaṃ cara tvam na hiṃsyāt idaṃ vāva
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| satyam | satyam | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | truth |
| vada | vadā | verb | √vad · optative · second | speak |
| dharmaṃ | dharmaṁ | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | righteousness |
| cara | carā | verb | √car · optative · second | follow |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| hiṃsyāt | hiṁsyāt | verb | √hiṃs · optative · third | may harm |
| idaṃ | idam | pronoun | accusative · singular · neuter | this |
| vāva | vāva | indeclinable | — | indeed, verily |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'satyam vada. dharmaṃ cara. na hiṃsyād idaṃ vāva,' is pivotal in understanding the non-dual nature of reality as it underscores the importance of truth, righteousness, and non-violence. According to Shankara, the pursuit of truth (satyam) and adherence to dharma (dharmaṃ cara) are essential for realizing the ultimate reality, Brahman. The emphasis on 'na hiṃsyāt' (do not harm) underscores the interconnectedness of all beings, suggesting that harm to any being is, in essence, harm to oneself, thereby pointing to the brahman-ātman identity. This interpretation aligns with Shankara's commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, where he discusses the nature of the Self and the importance of self-inquiry. By following this verse, one cultivates a mindset that recognizes the non-dual essence of all existence, leading to the realization of Brahman-ātman identity.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of this verse focuses on the devotional aspects and the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya emphasizes that speaking the truth and following dharma are means of surrendering to the will of Īśvara, which is an act of devotion. Non-violence (na hiṃsyāt) is seen as a fundamental principle in maintaining the harmony of the world, which is Īśvara's creation. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, views this verse through the lens of duality, where the jīva must strive to follow the path of truth and righteousness to attain liberation, which is facilitated by the grace of Īśvara. Both interpretations highlight the importance of living a virtuous life as a means of devotion and service to the Supreme, aligning with the Vaiṣṇava emphasis on bhakti (devotion) as a path to mokṣa (liberation).
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse presents a universal and practical guide for living, applicable across cultures and time. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the importance of truth and non-violence as universal principles that can guide human actions. He saw these principles as essential for both individual and societal development, leading to a more harmonious and equitable world. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, highlighted the relevance of this verse in contemporary life, arguing that the pursuit of truth and the practice of non-violence are fundamental to a global ethic that can unite humanity in its diversity. Both Vivekananda and Radhakrishnan underscored the need for individuals to embody these principles in their daily lives, fostering a culture of compassion, truthfulness, and mutual respect, which are seen as essential for a more enlightened and peaceful world.