satyam vada dharmaṃ cara na vidyāt svasti mithyā vadān nāyam satyo hyavṛjaḥ pathaḥ

tvam (you) satyam (truth) vada (speak) dharmaṃ (righteousness) cara (follow) mithyā (falsehood) vadān (speaking) svasti (prosperity) na vidyāt (not know) hy (indeed) nāyam (this) pathaḥ (path) satyo (is truthful) avṛjaḥ (not crooked)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Chāndogyopaniṣad, Ādi Śaṅkarācārya interprets this verse as emphasizing the importance of adhering to truth and dharma in order to realize the ultimate reality, Brahman. Shankara argues that speaking the truth and following dharma are essential for the pursuit of self-knowledge, as they help to purify the mind and remove the veil of ignorance that obscures the true nature of the Self (ātman). By following this path, one can ultimately realize the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal reality (Brahman). Shankara's commentary on this verse highlights the non-dual nature of reality, emphasizing that the distinction between truth and falsehood, and between dharma and adharma, is ultimately a product of the limited and conditioned mind. In his view, the realization of the true nature of the Self is the ultimate goal of human existence, and this verse points the way towards that realization.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): Rāmānujācārya, a prominent Vaiṣṇava philosopher, interprets this verse in the context of the relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). According to Rāmānuja, the verse emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth and following dharma as a means of cultivating devotion to God and ultimately attaining liberation. He argues that speaking the truth and following dharma are essential qualities of a devotee, as they demonstrate a commitment to living in accordance with God's will. Rāmānuja also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Lord's presence in all aspects of life, including the pursuit of truth and the practice of dharma. In his commentary on the Gītā, Rāmānuja cites this verse as an example of the importance of living a life of truth and virtue in order to attain spiritual liberation and realize the ultimate goal of human existence, which is to experience the loving presence of God.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in the Neo-Vedānta movement, interprets this verse as a call to action, emphasizing the importance of living a life of truth, integrity, and compassion. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often cited this verse as an example of the practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. He argued that speaking the truth and following dharma are essential for building strong relationships, creating a just and equitable society, and realizing one's full human potential. Vivekānanda also emphasized the importance of recognizing the universal and eternal nature of truth, which transcends cultural and religious boundaries. In his view, this verse points to the ultimate goal of human existence, which is to realize the unity and interconnectedness of all beings, and to live in harmony with the natural world and with each other. By following the path of truth and dharma, individuals can cultivate the qualities of courage, compassion, and wisdom, and contribute to the creation of a more just and peaceful world.

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