tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyaḥ sa-gaṇāṅgebhyā eva ca

tataḥ (then) śvetebhyaḥ (from the white ones) plavaṅgamebhyaḥ (to the jumping ones) sa-gaṇāṅgebhyā (with their attendants) eva (indeed) ca (and)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, 'tataḥ śvetebhyaḥ plavaṅgamebhyaḥ sa-gaṇāṅgebhyā eva ca,' underscores the non-dual nature of reality by implying a unity among diverse entities. Shankara, in his commentary on the Brahmasutra, particularly in the section discussing the unity of the Self (Ātman) and the Absolute (Brahman), would likely interpret this verse as symbolizing the ultimate reality that underlies all apparent distinctions. The 'white monkeys with troops and attendants' can be seen as metaphorical representations of the various aspects of the human psyche and the external world, all of which are ultimately reducible to the singular, unchanging essence of Brahman. This interpretation aligns with Shankara's emphasis on the illusory nature of the world (Maya) and the singular, non-dual reality that lies beyond all distinctions and dualities. By pointing to the unity and interconnectedness of all beings, this verse supports the Advaita Vedanta thesis of the identity of the individual self (Ātman) and the cosmic reality (Brahman).

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the context of Vaiṣṇava theology, this verse can be interpreted as illustrating the relationship between the individual souls (jīvas) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasutra, would likely see the 'white monkeys' as symbolic of the purified jīvas who, along with their attendants and troops, are devoted to the service of the Lord. The emphasis here is on the devotional aspect, where the jīvas recognize their dependence on Īśvara and seek union with Him. The white color of the monkeys could signify purity and spiritual illumination, achieved through devotion and selfless service. Madhvācārya, with his emphasis on the difference (bheda) between the individual souls and the Supreme Lord, might interpret the verse as highlighting the distinction between the Lord's attendants (who are fully devoted) and those who are still on the path to realization. Both perspectives, however, underscore the central role of devotion and the recognition of Īśvara's sovereignty in achieving spiritual liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse, with its imagery of 'white monkeys with troops and attendants,' can be seen as a call to recognize the universal and inherent goodness in all beings, as well as the interconnectedness of all life. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of Vedantic principles in everyday life, stressing the importance of service, compassion, and the realization of the divine within every individual. He might view this verse as a metaphor for the potential within each person to recognize and manifest their higher, divine nature. S. Radhakrishnan, with his synthesis of traditional Vedanta with modern thought, could interpret the verse in terms of the universal values of harmony, cooperation, and mutual respect, symbolized by the monkeys and their attendants moving in unity. Both Vivekānanda and Radhakrishnan would likely see this verse as a reminder of the need to transcend individual limitations and to strive for a broader, more inclusive understanding of human existence and our place within the larger cosmic context.

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