satyam vada. dharmaṃ cara. na hiṃsyān mātma-vat.
“Speak the truth, follow dharma, and do not harm anyone, as you would not harm yourself.”
Structure
satyam vada dharmaṃ cara na hiṃsyān mā ātma-vat
tvam satyam vada tvam dharmaṃ cara na tvam ātma-vat hiṃsyān mā
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| satyam | satyaṃ | noun | accusative · singular · neuter | truth |
| vada | vadā | verb | √vad · laṭ · second | speak |
| dharmaṃ | dharmaṃ | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | righteousness |
| cara | carā | verb | √car · laṭ · second | follow, pursue |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| hiṃsyān | hiṃsyān | verb | √hiṃs · liṅ · second | you should harm |
| mā | mā | indeclinable | — | me |
| ātma-vat | ātmavat | compound | karmadhāraya · "ātmā-vat" | like oneself |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Chāndogyopaniṣad underscores the essence of non-dualism by emphasizing the intrinsic value of truth, dharma, and non-violence. Shankara, in his commentary on the Taittirīya Upaniṣad, notes that the identification of the self (ātman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman) is fundamental. The directive 'na hiṃsyān mā ātma-vat' suggests that harming others is akin to harming oneself, implying a deep-seated unity. This understanding is pivotal in realizing the brahman-ātman identity, where the distinctions between the self and others dissolve. By advocating for truth, dharma, and non-harm, the verse points towards this ultimate reality, guiding the seeker to embrace the world with a sense of oneness, thereby negating the dualistic perceptions that breed harm and ignorance.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of this verse revolves around the loving relationship between the jīva (the individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to the service of Īśvara, which includes speaking the truth and following dharma as means of pleasing the Lord. The phrase 'na hiṃsyān mā ātma-vat' is seen as an expression of the Lord's compassion for all beings, urging the devotee to treat others with the same care and kindness as they would their own selves, recognizing the inherent divinity in every being. This verse, thus, becomes a guideline for the devotee's conduct in the world, fostering a community based on love, non-violence, and the pursuit of spiritual growth under the guidance of Īśvara.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda often emphasized the practical applications of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. This verse from the Chāndogyopaniṣad is a powerful call to action, urging individuals to embody truth, dharma, and compassion. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda stressed the importance of recognizing the divine in every being, thereby advocating for a life of service and non-violence. This universal message resonates deeply in contemporary life, where societal harmony and individual integrity are increasingly valued. S. Radhakrishnan, reflecting on the relevance of Indian philosophy to modern problems, would see this verse as a foundation for global ethics, promoting a culture of truthfulness, moral integrity, and peaceful coexistence. By living according to this verse, individuals can contribute to a more just, compassionate, and enlightened world.