na tvayā dattaṃ na tu mayā nāyamas tvāgrahaḥ

na (not) tvayā (by you) dattaṃ (given) na (not) tu (indeed) mayā (by me) nāyamas (this) tvāgrahaḥ (your insistence)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata offers a profound insight into the non-dual nature of reality, underscoring the idea that all transactions, including giving and receiving, are ultimately illusory. Shankara, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, emphasizes the concept of 'avidyā' or ignorance, which veils the true nature of the Self (ātman) and the universe (brahman). The statement 'na tvayā dattaṃ na tu mayā' (this was not given by you, nor by me) points to the transcendent reality beyond all mundane interactions, hinting at the brahman-ātman identity. By negating the agency of both the giver and the receiver, the verse guides the seeker towards the understanding that all distinctions, including the duality of giver and receiver, are not ultimately real. This non-dual reading of the verse aligns with Shankara's reasoning on the nature of reality, where the ultimate truth is beyond human transactions and perceptions, residing in the unified consciousness of brahman.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse can be seen as an expression of the dependence of the jīva (individual soul) on Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Vishishtadvaita philosophy, would interpret 'na tvayā dattaṃ na tu mayā' as an acknowledgment of the divine grace that underlies all transactions. The statement underscores that true giving and receiving are not actions of individual entities but are facilitated by the divine will. This perspective emphasizes the devotional relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, where the jīva recognizes its limitations and the omnipotence of the Lord. In this context, the verse prompts the devotee to transcend personal ego and acknowledge the divine hand in all aspects of life, leading to a deeper sense of surrender and devotion. Madhvācārya, with his Dvaita philosophy, might view this verse as highlighting the real distinction between the Lord and the individual souls, yet even in Dvaita, the dependence of all actions on the will of the Supreme is a central theme.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, echoing the universal and practical application of ancient Indian wisdom, would likely interpret this verse as a call to transcend the limitations of the individual ego. He often spoke about the importance of realizing one's true nature beyond the confines of the mundane self. The statement 'na tvayā dattaṃ na tu mayā' can be seen as a reminder that our actions and interactions are not bound by the narrow perspectives of the giver and the receiver but are part of a larger cosmic interplay. Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, emphasized the importance of service (seva) and the realization of the divine in all beings. This verse, in the context of Neo-Vedānta, prompts the individual to look beyond personal agendas and to embrace a universal perspective, where all actions are seen as part of a divine plan, leading to a life of service, compassion, and spiritual growth. S. Radhakrishnan, with his philosophical inclination, would further elucidate how this verse contributes to the broader ethical and spiritual principles that guide human conduct, encouraging a life of detachment, selflessness, and universal love.

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