Satyam vada. Dharmaṃ cara. Na hiṃsyānmiśritānena. Anutiṣṭhatā.
“Speak the truth, follow dharma, do not harm others by mixing with them.”
Structure
Satyam vada Dharmaṃ cara Na hiṃsyān miśritānena Anutiṣṭhatā
Anutiṣṭhatā (you who are established) satyam (truth) vada (speak), dharmaṃ (righteousness) cara (follow), na (not) hiṃsyān (harm) miśritānena (with a mixed or combined means)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Satyam | Satyam | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | truth |
| vada | vadā | verb | √vad · optative · second | speak |
| Dharmaṃ | Dharmaṃ | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | righteousness |
| cara | carā | verb | √car · optative · second | follow |
| Na | Nā | indeclinable | — | not |
| hiṃsyān | hiṃsyān | verb | √hiṃs · optative · second | harm |
| miśritānena | miśritānena | compound | tatpuruṣa · "miśritā + ānena" | with mixed or mingled beings (non-violent towards all) |
| Anutiṣṭhatā | Anutiṣṭhatā | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | one who does not stand by or support |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Chāndogyopaniṣad, Shankara interprets this verse as a call to realize the ultimate truth (Satyam) that underlies all existence. By instructing to 'speak the truth' and 'follow dharma,' the verse is seen as guiding the seeker towards a life of non-deception and adherence to universal principles. Shankara's emphasis on 'Na hiṃsyānmiśritānena' (do not harm others by mixing with them) can be seen as a warning against the dangers of external influences that may distract one from the path of self-realization. Ultimately, this verse points to the identity of Brahman and Ātman, where the individual self (jīva) is encouraged to look beyond the fleeting nature of worldly interactions and seek the eternal truth within. Shankara's reasoning, as seen in his commentary on the Taittirīya Upaniṣad, underscores the importance of this introspective journey in realizing the non-dual essence of reality.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is understood through the lens of bhakti, or devotion to a personal deity. Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, emphasizes the importance of 'Satyam vada' (speak the truth) as a fundamental aspect of one's relationship with Īśvara (the Lord). Truthfulness is seen as a key virtue in cultivating devotion and ensuring the purity of one's heart. The instruction to 'follow dharma' is interpreted as adhering to the path prescribed by the scriptures and the guru, which ultimately leads to the realization of one's true nature as a servant of the Lord. 'Na hiṃsyānmiśritānena' is understood as a warning against the harmful influences of worldly associations that may lead one away from devotion and towards a life of sin. Thus, this verse is seen as guiding the devotee towards a life of truth, righteousness, and service to the Lord, with the ultimate goal of achieving loving union with Īśvara.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical applications of verses like this one from the Chāndogyopaniṣad. He saw 'Satyam vada' and 'Dharmaṃ cara' as universal principles that could guide humanity towards a more harmonious and enlightened existence. Vivekānanda believed that the practice of truthfulness and adherence to dharma could help individuals transcend petty differences and realize their common humanity. The instruction 'Na hiṃsyānmiśritānena' is interpreted as a call to non-violence and compassion, not just towards other human beings, but towards all living creatures. This verse, in the context of modern life, encourages individuals to embrace a lifestyle that is not only personally fulfilling but also contributes to the greater good of society. As S. Rādhākrishnan noted, such verses remind us of the importance of living a life that is grounded in ethical and moral principles, which are essential for creating a more just and peaceful world.