parantu tasya rājendraḥ na kurūṇāṁ vṛddhirabhavat

parantu (however) tasya (of that) rājendraḥ (king) na (not) abhavat (became) kurūṇāṁ (of the Kurus) vṛddhiḥ (the best or chief)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The statement 'parantu tasya rāje ndro na kurūṇāṁ vṛddhirabhavat' highlights the impermanence of earthly lineage and power, underscoring the non-dual (Advaita) perspective that true identity lies beyond fleeting worldly designations. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara reasoning on similar passages emphasizes the distinction between the transient, external self and the eternal, inner self (ātman), which is ultimately identical with the absolute reality (Brahman). This verse points to the brahman-ātman identity by negating the importance of external lineage, thus directing the seeker towards introspection and self-realization. The realization that even the mighty Kuru lineage does not confer ultimate status encourages the pursuit of knowledge that transcends worldly hierarchies, aligning with Shankara's teachings on the illusoriness of the world and the sole reality of Brahman. Thus, the focus on the non-eldest status of the king serves as a pedagogical tool to awaken the reader to the true, unchanging nature of reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse offers a nuanced view into the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord), particularly in the context of the Mahābhārata. Rāmānujācārya, in his Sri Bhashya, while interpreting similar passages, often emphasizes the concept of 'śeṣa-śeṣi-bhāva', which describes the dependent relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, akin to the body and soul. The fact that the Kuru king is not the eldest underscores the idea that true authority and legitimacy come from one's relationship with the divine, rather than mere lineage or birth. This resonates with the Vaiṣṇava emphasis on devotion (bhakti) and the surrender of one's ego and worldly attachments to the will of Īśvara, recognizing that true greatness and wisdom are derived from this divine relationship. Thus, the verse invites the reader to reflect on the nature of divine grace and the path to achieving a profound connection with the ultimate reality, which is central to Vaiṣṇava theology.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse can be seen as a metaphor for the universal human quest for identity and significance. Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the importance of looking beyond external markers of status and power to find true fulfillment and meaning. The statement about the Kuru king not being the eldest can be interpreted as a call to move beyond the confines of traditional hierarchies and societal expectations, embracing instead the universal principles of equality, compassion, and self-realization. Vivekananda's message of service to others as a path to self-discovery and spiritual growth finds resonance in this verse, as it challenges the reader to reconsider what truly constitutes greatness and leadership. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, underscores the relevance of Vedantic principles to contemporary life, suggesting that true freedom and empowerment come from recognizing and actualizing one's inner potential, rather than merely adhering to external norms or lineage. This verse, therefore, serves as a reminder of the timeless and universal applicability of Vedantic wisdom to the challenges and aspirations of modern life, encouraging individuals to seek a deeper, more authentic sense of purpose and identity.

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