Nāhaṁ kāmeṇa bodhena mumukṣubhyāḥ pravartitāḥ.
“I was not prompted by desire or knowledge to establish the four varnas, it was for the sake of the seekers of liberation.”
Structure
Nāhaṁ kāmeṇa bodhena mumukṣubhyāḥ pravartitāḥ
Na (not) ahaṁ (I) kāmeṇa (by desire) bodhena (for enlightenment) mumukṣubhyāḥ (for those who seek liberation) pravartitāḥ (have undertaken)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nāhaṁ | Nāhaṁ | indeclinable | — | not I, neither I |
| kāmeṇa | kāmeṇa | noun | instrumental · singular · masculine | by desire |
| bodhena | bodhena | noun | instrumental · singular · masculine | by knowledge |
| mumukṣubhyāḥ | mumukṣubhyāḥ | noun | dative · plural · masculine | to those who are desirous of liberation |
| pravartitāḥ | pravartitāḥ | verb | √pra-vart · past passive · third | have been initiated or started |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where the distinctions between varnas are transcended. Śaṅkarācārya, commenting on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes that the establishment of the four varnas is based on the gunas (qualities) of individuals, not their birth. In his commentary on this verse, he highlights that it is not desire (kāma) or knowledge (bodha) that prompts the establishment of varnas, but rather the inherent nature of the individuals. This reading points to the ultimate reality of Brahman-ātman identity, where all distinctions, including those of varna, are sublated. The verse thus serves as a reminder to seek liberation (mumukṣutva) beyond the confines of societal categorizations, aligning with the non-dualistic philosophy of Advaita Vedānta.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as an expression of the Lord's providence, guiding individuals towards their respective roles in society. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets this verse as highlighting the Lord's sovereignty in establishing the varnas, based on the inherent qualities of individuals. This interpretation emphasizes the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord), where the Lord guides the jīva towards its rightful place in society, facilitating the pursuit of liberation. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might view this verse as underscoring the difference between the Lord's will and human desires, stressing the importance of surrendering to the Lord's plan. Both perspectives underscore the devotional aspect, where the individual's role is to follow the Lord's guidance, rather than being driven by personal desires or knowledge.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the universal and practical application of Vedāntic principles. This verse, in the context of Neo-Vedānta, can be seen as a call to transcend societal divisions and strive for liberation. Vivekānanda might interpret this verse as highlighting the importance of selfless action, where one's role in society is determined not by personal desires or limited knowledge, but by a higher sense of purpose. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, stresses the importance of recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, beyond the confines of societal categorizations. This verse, in the modern context, can be seen as a reminder to strive for a more inclusive and equitable society, where individuals are valued based on their intrinsic worth, rather than external markers. This reading aligns with the emphasis on universal brotherhood and the pursuit of spiritual growth, characteristic of Neo-Vedānta.