na tvayā dattena parigrāhyam idaṁ rājyam

na (not) tvayā (by you) dattena (that which is given) parigrāhyam (should be accepted) idaṁ (this) rājyam (kingdom)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'na tvayā dattena parigrāhyam idaṁ rājyam,' underscores the non-dual nature of reality by pointing out the futility of attachment to earthly kingdoms as if they were gifts from a higher authority. According to Śaṅkarācārya, the true self (ātman) is not bound by the transient nature of worldly possessions or positions. In his commentary on the Brahmasūtra, Shankara emphasizes the concept of 'anātman' or no-self in relation to worldly entities, suggesting that the ego's tendency to claim ownership or possession is an illusion that veils the universal self (Brahman). This verse, by rejecting the notion of accepting a kingdom as a gift, hints at the detachment required to realize the brahman-ātman identity, where one understands that the ultimate reality is not something to be possessed or given but is the very essence of one's being.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The statement 'na tvayā dattena parigrāhyam idaṁ rājyam' can be seen as an expression of the devotee's humility and surrender before the Lord. Rāmānujācārya, in his works, often emphasizes the concept of 'prapatti' or total surrender to the divine will. In this context, the verse suggests that even the greatest of worldly achievements, like a kingdom, should not be considered as personal possessions but as manifestations of the divine grace. The acceptance of a kingdom 'as given by you' implies a recognition of the Lord's sovereignty over all, including the devotee's existence and possessions. This perspective fosters a devotional attitude where the jīva (individual self) acknowledges and submits to the omnipotence of Īśvara (the Lord), thus fostering a relationship of loving dependence and service.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse, in its essence, speaks to the universal theme of detachment and the true nature of ownership. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures, often highlighted the importance of renunciation not as a rejection of the world but as a freedom from the bondage of ego and material attachments. The statement 'this kingdom should not be accepted as given by you' can be interpreted as a call to transcend the limited perspective of selfish gain and possession, recognizing instead the interconnectedness of all existence. In contemporary life, this verse encourages a shift from competitive, possessive attitudes towards a more cooperative and inclusive understanding of success and achievement, where individuals recognize their roles as part of a larger whole and contribute to the well-being of all, rather than merely accumulating wealth or power for personal gratification.

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