tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyāḥ śṛṇvān dṛṣṭvā ca pauruṣam

tataḥ (then) śvetebhyaḥ (from the white ones) plavaṅgamebhyāḥ (to the jumping ones) śṛṇvān (listening) dṛṣṭvā (having seen) ca (and) pauruṣam (the manliness)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyāḥ śṛṇvān dṛṣṭvā ca pauruṣam, is often overlooked in discussions of non-dual philosophy, but it holds a significant place in understanding the nature of reality. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary on the Bhāgavad Gītā, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the ātman, the Self, which is beyond all duality. The 'pauruṣam' or manly prowess mentioned here is a metaphor for the strength and courage needed to realize one's true nature. This verse, according to Śaṅkara, points to the ability to see beyond the external, superficial aspects of reality, such as the 'śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyāḥ' (white monkeys), and to understand the unity of all existence. By 'hearing and seeing' (śṛṇvān dṛṣṭvā), one transcends the limitations of the sensory world and approaches the realization of brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self (ātman) is understood to be one with the ultimate reality (brahman). In the context of this verse, Śaṅkara's reasoning, as seen in his commentaries on the Upaniṣads and the Gītā, underscores the journey of self-discovery and the ultimate dissolution of the ego, leading to liberation (mokṣa).

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of this verse is deeply rooted in the concept of bhakti, or devotion. Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, discusses the relationship between the jīva (the individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord), emphasizing the loving dependence of the former on the latter. The 'pauruṣam' or manly prowess seen in the context of this verse can be understood as a reflection of the Lord's omnipotence and the soul's potential for spiritual growth and liberation. The act of 'hearing and seeing' (śṛṇvān dṛṣṭvā) signifies the jīva's ability to perceive and understand the divine, leading to a deeper devotional relationship with Īśvara. Madhvācārya, from a Dvaita perspective, might interpret the 'śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyāḥ' as symbols of purity and agility, qualities that the devotee should strive for in their spiritual journey, always mindful of the distinction between the self and the Lord, yet yearning for His grace and companionship. This verse, in the Vaiṣṇava tradition, thus becomes a testament to the transformative power of devotion and the pursuit of a personal relationship with the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often stressed the importance of practical Vedānta, emphasizing the universal principles that can guide human action and spiritual growth. This verse, with its focus on 'pauruṣam' or manly prowess, can be seen as a call to develop inner strength, courage, and resilience in the face of life's challenges. The 'śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyāḥ' (white monkeys) might symbolize the unpredictable nature of the world, which requires a balanced and agile response from the individual. Vivekānanda would likely interpret 'hearing and seeing' (śṛṇvān dṛṣṭvā) as the development of intuition and insight, allowing one to navigate life's complexities with wisdom and integrity. S. Radhakrishnan, with his philosophical inclination, might view this verse as underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to life, where spirituality and practical action are intertwined. For Radhakrishnan, the pursuit of spiritual growth and the development of one's inner faculties are essential for addressing the challenges of the contemporary world, making this verse relevant to modern societal and ethical dilemmas.

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