na - tvahaṃ - kāmaye - rājyaṃ - na - ca - rājyasya - kāmanā - atha - kāmaye - yad - rājā - niṣevitum - arhati

na (not) tvahaṃ (I) kāmaye (desire) rājyaṃ (kingdom)na (not) ca (and) rājyasya (of kingdom) kāmanā (for the desire)atha (then) kāmaye (I desire) yad (what) rājā (king) niṣevitum (to enjoy) arhati (is worthy)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse illustrates the non-dual nature of reality, as the distinction between the individual self and the ultimate reality is transcended. Śaṅkara's commentary on the Taittirīya Upaniṣad (2.1.1) notes that the realization of the identity of the individual self (ātman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) is the key to liberation. In this context, the verse suggests that the desire for power or material possessions is ultimately a veil that obscures the true nature of the self. The phrase 'yad rājā niṣevitum arhati' can be seen as a reference to the ultimate reality, which alone is worthy of being served or experienced. Thus, the verse points to the brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self realizes its true nature as being one with the ultimate reality, beyond all desires and dualities. Śaṅkara's emphasis on the non-dual nature of reality is reflected in this verse, which encourages the seeker to look beyond the ephemeral and focus on the eternal and all-pervading reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse highlights the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). According to Rāmānuja, the individual self is not merely a passive receiver of divine grace, but an active participant in the process of self-realization. The phrase 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ' suggests that the individual self must renounce its egoistic desires and instead, focus on serving the Lord. The verse 'yad rājā niṣevitum arhati' can be seen as a reference to the Lord's divine nature, which alone is worthy of being served. Madhva, on the other hand, would emphasize the distinction between the individual self and the Lord, highlighting the dependence of the former on the latter. In both traditions, the verse underscores the importance of devotion and self-surrender as a means to attain spiritual liberation. The verse is seen as an expression of the individual self's longing to serve the Lord, and to experience the divine presence in their life.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse has a profound universal and practical application, as it highlights the importance of re-evaluating one's priorities and desires. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the need to cultivate a sense of detachment and inner freedom. The verse 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ' can be seen as a call to renounce external desires and focus on inner growth. The phrase 'yad rājā niṣevitum arhati' can be interpreted as a reference to the universal human aspiration for meaning and purpose. S. Rādhākrishnan, in his writings on the Upaniṣads, notes that the ultimate goal of human life is not to accumulate power or wealth, but to realize one's true nature and live a life of service and compassion. This verse encourages the individual to look beyond the mundane and strive for a higher purpose, one that is rooted in the universal values of love, wisdom, and selflessness. In contemporary life, this verse can serve as a reminder to re-examine our priorities and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning.

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