siddhy-asiddhyor upi nāsti cintayā
“There is no concern even if success or failure occurs.”
Structure
siddhyasiddhyor upi nāsti cintayā
cintayā (by worry) upi (even) siddhyasiddhyor (of success and failure) nāsti (there is not)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| siddhyasiddhyor | siddhy-asiddhyor | compound | dvandva · "siddhiḥ ca asiddhiḥ ca" | success and failure |
| upi | upi | indeclinable | — | even |
| nāsti | nāsti | verb | √as · laṭ-present · third | there is not |
| cintayā | cintayā | noun | instrumental · singular · feminine | with anxiety/thought |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Ādi Śaṅkarācārya emphasizes the non-dual reading of this verse, highlighting the illusory nature of success and failure. According to Shankara, the verse siddhy-asiddhyor upi nāsti cintayā suggests that the wise individual should not be concerned with the outcomes of their actions, as these are mere manifestations of the ephemeral world. This detachment is rooted in the understanding of the brahman-ātman identity, where the ultimate reality is untouched by the dualities of the world. Shankara's reasoning on this verse is closely related to his exposition of the concept of naiskarmya, or the liberation from the bondage of action, which is achievable through the realization of the non-dual nature of reality. By transcending the concerns of success and failure, the individual can attain a state of inner peace and freedom, unshackled by the vicissitudes of the external world.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a distinct devotional reading of this verse, emphasizing the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets the verse as a call to surrender one's attachment to success and failure, recognizing that these outcomes are ultimately in the hands of Īśvara. The jīva's role is to perform actions with devotion and dedication, without being overly concerned with the results. This surrender allows the individual to cultivate a deeper sense of dependence on Īśvara, fostering a sense of humility and receptivity to divine guidance. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, stresses the importance of recognizing the Lord's sovereign will in determining the outcomes of human actions. By accepting the verse's message, the devotee can develop a profound sense of trust in Īśvara's plan, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse holds significant practical implications for contemporary life, as underscored by Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often emphasized the importance of developing a sense of detachment, or vairāgya, in the face of life's challenges. This verse, with its message of non-attachment to success and failure, offers a powerful tool for cultivating inner strength and resilience. Rādhākrishnan, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, highlights the universal relevance of this verse, which transcends cultural and philosophical boundaries. He argues that the verse's emphasis on equanimity in the face of success and failure can inspire individuals to adopt a more balanced and composed approach to life, unencumbered by excessive emotional highs and lows. By embracing this wisdom, modern individuals can develop a greater sense of purpose and direction, unshackled by the fleeting nature of external events.