nāsti samayaḥ rāga-viyoge

nāsti (there is not) samayaḥ (time) rāga-viyoge (in separation from attachment)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse nāsti samayo rāgaviyoge underscores the timeless and spaceless nature of the ultimate reality, Brahman. According to Shankara's commentary on the Brahma Sutras, the concept of separation (viyoga) is illusory, for it implies a duality that does not exist in the non-dual Brahman. This verse points to the identity of Brahman and Ātman, suggesting that the notion of detachment or separation from worldly attachments (rāga) is a misconception, as the Self is never truly bound. In his reasoning on similar passages, Shankara emphasizes the importance of recognizing this non-dual reality to transcend the cycle of suffering. Thus, the verse invites the seeker to realize the timeless and unconditioned nature of the Self, beyond all attachments and separations.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse, nāsti samayo rāgaviyoge, can be seen as highlighting the eternal and inseparable relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, the concept of rāga (attachment) is not merely worldly but also includes the devotee's loving attachment to God. Rāmānujācārya's commentary on the Gītā emphasizes the importance of cultivating such loving devotion as a means to realize one's intrinsic connection with the Divine. The term viyoga (separation) in this context might imply the sorrow of feeling disconnected from the Lord. Therefore, the verse could be interpreted as asserting that there is no occasion for the devotee to feel separated from their Lord, as the relationship is eternal and constant, transcending the fleeting nature of worldly attachments.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The universal and practical application of the verse nāsti samayo rāgaviyoge lies in its call to transcend attachments that bind us to suffering. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures, often emphasized the importance of balancing detachment with compassionate engagement in the world. This verse can be seen as underscoring the need to let go of egoistic and selfish attachments that lead to suffering, not by abandoning the world, but by cultivating a deeper understanding of our true nature. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed how such detachment allows for a more authentic and meaningful engagement with the world, unencumbered by personal desires and fears. In contemporary life, this verse reminds us of the importance of mindfulness and non-attachment as tools for living a more balanced and fulfilling life, recognizing that true freedom and peace are not found in external possessions or relationships but in the depths of our own being.

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