yacca - vaḥ - śravaṇād - rājan - kampati - eva - ca - yat - phalam

rājan (king) vaḥ (your) śravaṇād (from hearing) yacca (and) kampati (trembles) eva (indeed) ca (and) yat (which) phalam (result)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, yacca vaḥ śravaṇād rājan kampaty eva ca yat phalam, underscores the significance of understanding the true nature of the self. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes that the trembling or agitation referred to here is a result of the incomplete or imperfect knowledge of the ultimate reality. He argues that mere hearing (śravaṇā) of the scriptures without proper understanding does not lead to liberation. The benefit (phalam) that accrues from such hearing is limited and does not lead to the realization of the brahman-ātman identity, which is the core of Advaita Vedānta. Śaṅkarācārya would contend that the verse points to the necessity of a deeper, contemplative understanding, beyond mere intellectual comprehension, to achieve the non-dual state where the distinction between the individual self (jīva) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) is transcended.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava interpretation, this verse highlights the devotional aspect of spiritual pursuit. Rāmānujācārya, for instance, would focus on the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord), emphasizing that the trembling or agitation (kampati) is a sign of devotion and awe in the presence of the divine. The benefit (phalam) from hearing (śravaṇād) about the Lord is not merely intellectual but leads to an emotional and spiritual connection with Him. This verse, in the Vaiṣṇava view, underscores the importance of bhakti (devotion) as a means to achieve spiritual liberation, where the jīva, in love and surrender, seeks to reunite with Īśvara, thus experiencing the bliss of divine communion. Madhvācārya might further emphasize the distinction between the Lord and the individual souls, highlighting that this verse supports the concept of difference (bheda) between them, yet stressing the loving relationship between Īśvara and the jīvas.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, interpreting this verse in light of modern needs, would focus on the universal and practical applications. He might argue that the trembling or agitation (kampati) symbolizes the profound impact of spiritual realization on the individual's life, leading to a transformation that benefits not just the self but society at large. The phrase 'what benefit accrues from mere hearing' (yacca vaḥ śravaṇād) would, to him, suggest that mere theoretical knowledge is insufficient; practical application and experience are necessary. Vivekānanda would emphasize the importance of self-realization and service to humanity as the ultimate goal, aligning with his message of practical Vedānta. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, with his philosophical inclination, might view this verse as an exhortation to move beyond mere intellectual assent to a deeper level of understanding and practice, integrating the spiritual with the mundane aspects of life, thereby achieving a holistic approach to existence.

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