caturaśreṇa labhyate mātaṅgaḥ

mātaṅgaḥ caturaśreṇa labhyate (The elephant) mātaṅgaḥ (is obtained) caturaśreṇa (by a four-fold division/labour) labhyate (is attainable)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In interpreting the verse 'caturaśreṇa labhyate mātaṅgaḥ', Shankara's non-dual perspective suggests that the quadrilateral or four-sided trap signifies the fourfold method of achieving self-realization. This method involves the disciplines of self-control, contemplation, compassion, and the cultivation of knowledge. The elephant, symbolizing the ultimate reality or Brahman, can only be grasped by transcending the limitations of the ego and realizing the unity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal self (Brahman). The quadrilateral trap is thus a metaphor for the structured approach to spiritual growth that ultimately leads to the understanding that the distinctions between the individual and the universal are illusory. Shankara's commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, where he discusses the need for a disciplined approach to realize the truth of the non-dual Brahman, supports this interpretation. The essence of the verse lies in its pointer towards the path of self-discovery and the realization of the Brahman-ātman identity through a structured and disciplined approach.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets the verse 'caturaśreṇa labhyate mātaṅgaḥ' through the lens of devotion and the relationship between the individual soul (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya would likely see the quadrilateral trap as a symbol of the four principles of devotional practice: bhakti (devotion), prapatti (surrender), vairagya (detachment), and ārjava (simplicity). The elephant, representing the Lord, can only be approached and understood by embracing these principles. This interpretation highlights the Vaiṣṇava emphasis on personal devotion as the means to attain spiritual liberation and proximity to the divine. Furthermore, the concept of 'labhyate' (can be obtained) underscores the idea that through the grace of the Lord and the practice of devotion, the individual can achieve union with God. Madhvācārya would further emphasize the role of the guru and the importance of scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana in guiding the devotee towards this goal.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, exponents of Neo-Vedānta, offer a universal and practical perspective on the verse 'caturaśreṇa labhyate mātaṅgaḥ'. They see the quadrilateral trap as a metaphor for the balanced and holistic approach to life that is necessary for achieving fulfillment and realizing one's true potential. The elephant, in this context, symbolizes the human being's inner strength, wisdom, and spiritual potential. Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the importance of combining the four yogas (Rāja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Jñāna Yoga) as a comprehensive path to self-realization and service to humanity. Similarly, Rādhākrishnan highlighted the need for a balanced development of the human personality, encompassing intellectual, moral, aesthetic, and spiritual growth. This interpretation makes the verse relevant to contemporary life, suggesting that individuals must adopt a multifaceted approach to achieve success and find inner peace in today's complex world.

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