satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma

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

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Chāndogyopaniṣad, Ādi Śaṅkarācārya emphasizes the non-dual reading of this verse, satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma, by interpreting it as a declaration of the ultimate reality, Brahman, as the essence of truth, knowledge, and infinity. Shankara's reasoning, as seen in his Brahmasūtrabhāṣya, underscores the identity of Brahman with the individual self (ātman), suggesting that the knowledge (jñāna) of this identity is what liberates. This verse, in Shankara's view, underscores the unity and infiniteness of Brahman, negating all duality and finite conceptions. The emphasis on 'anantaṃ' (infinite) is particularly significant as it points to the boundless nature of Brahman, which cannot be confined by human comprehension. This understanding is crucial for realizing the Brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self recognizes its non-dual nature with the ultimate reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrībhāṣya, interprets the verse satyaṃ jñānaṃ anantaṃ brahma through the lens of qualified non-dualism (viśiṣṭādvaita), where Brahman is seen as the supreme reality endowed with infinite attributes. For Rāmānuja, this verse highlights the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord), emphasizing that true knowledge (jñāna) of Brahman's nature as truth (satya) and infinity (ananta) facilitates the jīva's liberation. The verse underscores the devotional aspect, where the realization of Brahman's true nature leads to a deeper love and surrender to God. In Rāmānuja's view, the knowledge of Brahman as infinite does not negate its personal aspect but rather underscores the depth of its attributes, including its capacity for love and grace towards the jīva.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical and universal 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 as infinite and divine, beyond the confines of the ego and the material world. Vivekānanda connected the concept of 'anantaṃ brahma' to the idea of the infinite potential within each individual, urging people to strive for Self-realization and service to humanity. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan interpreted this verse as pointing to the universal and eternal principles of truth and knowledge, which are accessible to all regardless of their religious or cultural background. For Radhakrishnan, this verse has a contemporary relevance in promoting global understanding, peace, and harmony, by recognizing the infinite and divine in every human being.

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