yad gacchan na avaśāmyati yad dṛṣṭvā na avaśāmyati

yad (what) gacchan (while going) na (not) avaśāmyati (becomes still or inactive) yad (what) dṛṣṭvā (on seeing) na (not) avaśāmyati (becomes still or inactive)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual essence of reality, where the ultimate truth, Brahman, is not subject to the limitations of physical existence, such as fatigue. According to Shankara, the concept of fatigue is rooted in the duality of the physical world (prapañca) and is thus inapplicable to the realm of the Absolute. In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Shankara explains that the Self (Ātman) is untouched by the tribulations of the world, including fatigue. The phrase 'yad gacchan nāvaśāmyati' signifies the freedom of the Self from the constraints of space and time, emphasizing its identity with the unchanging, all-pervading Brahman. This verse therefore reinforces the Advaitic notion of the unity of Brahman and Ātman, highlighting the liberation that arises from realizing this fundamental identity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, this verse is seen as a testament to the transcendent nature of the Lord (Īśvara) and the intimate relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Divine. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets 'yad gacchan nāvaśāmyati' as indicating the Lord's omnipresence and tireless activity in guiding the devotees towards liberation. The verse suggests that the Lord, being beyond human limitations, does not experience fatigue, whether in His movements or in His perception. This highlights the Vaiṣṇava emphasis on the personal aspect of the Divine, who actively engages with the world and its creatures, guiding them towards mokṣa. The relationship between the jīva and Īśvara is thus one of loving dependence, where the devotee seeks to understand and participate in the Lord's tireless and compassionate work.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse has profound implications for contemporary life, as it speaks to the human aspiration for transcendence and the realization of one's full potential. Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the importance of understanding the Self as beyond the limitations of the physical body and the ephemeral nature of worldly experiences. 'Yad gacchan nāvaśāmyati' is seen as a call to transcend the fatigue and disillusionment that often accompany worldly pursuits, by reconnecting with the deeper, unchanging aspect of one's being. This verse encourages individuals to strive for a life of purpose and meaning, unfettered by the constraints of ego and material desires. In the words of S. Radhakrishnan, this realization enables the individual to 'live more abundantly,' engaging with the world from a place of inner strength, wisdom, and compassion, thereby contributing to the greater good of humanity.

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