Tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyaḥ sumahābalebhyaḥ ca

Tataḥ (then) śvetebhyaḥ (from the white ones) plavaṅgamebhyaḥ (to the jumping ones) sumahābalebhyaḥ (to the very mighty ones) ca (and)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In the context of this verse, "Then from the white monkeys with great strength," Śaṅkarācārya would likely interpret the 'white monkeys' as symbolizing the purified mind or the intellect (buddhi) that has been cleansed of its impurities. The 'great strength' refers to the immense potential of the self (ātman) when it is realized in its true, unencumbered form. This interpretation aligns with Śaṅkarācārya's non-dualistic (Advaita) perspective, where the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the individual self (ātman) are considered to be one and the same. The realization of this unity is what grants true strength, not the physical prowess of the 'monkeys.' Thus, this verse points to the Brahman-ātman identity, suggesting that the journey towards self-realization involves recognizing and tapping into this inner, divine strength. As Śaṅkarācārya notes in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, the knowledge of Brahman is what liberates, indicating that understanding the true nature of the self is crucial for achieving spiritual liberation.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, as represented by Rāmānujācārya and Madhvācārya, would interpret this verse with a strong emphasis on the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). The 'white monkeys' could be seen as devotees who, with their purified hearts and minds, possess great strength in their devotion to the Lord. This strength is not just physical but spiritual, derived from their unwavering commitment to their deity. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Gītā, discusses the concept of 'prapatti' or total surrender to the Lord, which is akin to the strength derived from devotion. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might view the 'white monkeys' as representatives of the liberated souls who, having achieved mokṣa, possess the strength of unshakeable devotion and knowledge of the Supreme. Both perspectives underscore the devotional path as the means to achieving spiritual strength and liberation, highlighting the dependency of the jīva on Īśvara's grace.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Radhakrishnan, key figures in the Neo-Vedānta movement, would interpret this verse in a manner that emphasizes its universal and practical application. According to them, the 'white monkeys with great strength' symbolize the human potential that lies within each individual. The 'whiteness' could represent purity and innocence, while 'great strength' signifies the immense inner power that one can tap into through self-discipline and spiritual practice. Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the practical applications of Vedānta, often emphasized the importance of realizing one's inner strength and potential. Radhakrishnan, with his focus on the harmony of religions and the importance of ethical living, might see this verse as an allegory for the power of collective human effort towards a common, spiritually elevated goal. Both thinkers would encourage individuals to discover their own inner strength, similar to the white monkeys, and to use this strength for the betterment of society and the attainment of spiritual growth. This interpretation makes the ancient verse relevant to contemporary life, urging individuals to strive for self-realization and to contribute positively to the world around them.

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