tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyaḥ sagaraḥ paryabhavat vasham

sagaraḥ (Sagara) tataḥ (then) śvetebhyaḥ (of the white) plavaṅgamebhyaḥ (to the jumping ones) paryabhavat (ruled) vasham (under his control)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyaḥ sagaraḥ paryabhavat vasham', can be interpreted through the lens of non-duality by understanding the ruler, Sagar, as a symbol of the ultimate reality, Brahman. The white monkeys, representing the pure and untainted aspects of the self, come under the rule of Sagar, signifying the realization of the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal self (Brahman). This reading aligns with Shankara's reasoning in the Brahmasutra Bhashya, where he emphasizes the importance of understanding the ultimate reality beyond the distinctions of the phenomenal world. By seeing Sagar's rule as a metaphor for the pervasive and unifying nature of Brahman, we are reminded of the non-dual nature of reality, where all distinctions, including those between ruler and ruled, are ultimately transcended.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): The relationship between Sagar and the white monkeys in this verse can be seen as an allegory for the devotee's (jīva) submission to the divine will of the Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasutras, highlights the importance of prapatti, or self-surrender, as a means to attain liberation. In this context, Sagar's dominion over the white monkeys symbolizes the benevolent rule of the Lord over the devotees who have surrendered to Him. The white monkeys, being pure and untouched by the external world, represent the ideal state of a devotee who has purified their heart through devotion and self-surrender. This verse thus underscores the Vaiṣṇava emphasis on the personal relationship between the individual self and the Divine, with the ultimate goal of achieving union with the Lord through love and devotion.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekananda often emphasized the practical applications of spiritual principles in everyday life. In the context of this verse, the rule of Sagar over the white monkeys can be seen as a metaphor for the governance of our own minds and desires. The 'white monkeys' represent our pure and innate nature, while Sagar signifies the higher self or the rational mind. Vivekananda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gita, stressed the importance of self-control and the cultivation of a strong will as essential for spiritual growth. Thus, this verse can be interpreted as a call to recognize and assert the dominance of our higher selves over our baser instincts and desires, leading to a state of inner harmony and balance. By applying this principle, we can strive to achieve a more unified and directed life, where our actions and thoughts are guided by our highest ideals and aspirations.

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