NaiVĀgrahaṇena niṣevitavyaṁ na ca mohena vismayena ca ।
“One should not undertake a task merely out of obstinacy, nor out of delusion, nor out of wonder.”
Structure
Nai vā + āgrahaṇena, niṣevitavyaṁ, na + ca, mohena, na + ca, vismayena, ca
Nai vā (not) āgrahaṇena (with attachment) niṣevitavyaṁ (should be served) na (not) ca (and) mohena (with infatuation) na (not) ca (and) vismayena (with arrogance) ca (and)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nai | Nai | indeclinable | — | not |
| vā | vā | indeclinable | — | or |
| āgrahaṇena | āgrahaṇena | noun | instrumental · singular · masculine | with grasping or with attachment |
| niṣevitavyaṁ | niṣevitavyaṁ | verb | √sev · future passive | should be served or followed |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| ca | ca | indeclinable | — | and |
| mohena | mohena | noun | instrumental · singular · masculine | with delusion or with illusion |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| ca | ca | indeclinable | — | and |
| vismayena | vismayena | noun | instrumental · singular · masculine | with wonder or with astonishment |
| ca | ca | indeclinable | — | and |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the importance of discernment in actions, emphasizing that one should not be driven by external factors such as obstinacy, delusion, or wonder. Shankara, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, highlights the need to cultivate a state of detachment and awareness, echoing the sentiment of this verse. By warning against the pitfalls of āgrahaṇa (obstinacy), moha (delusion), and vismaya (wonder), the verse points to the non-dual reality of Brahman, where the individual self (ātman) is ultimately one with the universal consciousness. As Shankara notes, the realization of this identity is the key to liberation, and this verse serves as a reminder to approach life's choices with a critical and reflective mindset, unencumbered by ego-driven motivations. In this context, the verse can be seen as an exhortation to seek the timeless and unchanging truth of Brahman, rather than being swayed by fleeting emotions or superficial attractions.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse offers a nuanced perspective on the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Ramanuja, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, emphasizes the importance of developing a deep sense of devotion and surrender to the divine will. In this light, the warning against āgrahaṇa, moha, and vismaya can be seen as a caution against allowing one's ego or limited understanding to dictate one's actions, rather than submitting to the guidance of the Supreme. The verse suggests that true freedom and wisdom arise from recognizing one's dependence on the divine, and cultivating a spirit of humility and openness. By avoiding the pitfalls of self-willed action, the devotee can develop a more profound understanding of their relationship with the Lord, and ultimately, attain a state of loving communion with the divine. As Madhva notes, this verse highlights the importance of discerning the Lord's will, and aligning one's actions with the divine plan, rather than being driven by personal ambition or desire.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a powerful message for contemporary life, encouraging individuals to approach their choices and actions with greater awareness and discernment. As Vivekananda notes in his lectures, the tendency to act out of obstinacy, delusion, or wonder can lead to a lack of authenticity and purpose in life. By recognizing the limitations of these motivations, and instead cultivating a deeper sense of self-awareness and introspection, individuals can develop a more meaningful and fulfilling existence. The verse can be seen as an invitation to explore one's own values and principles, and to align one's actions with a higher sense of purpose and direction. Radhakrishnan, in his writings, highlights the importance of integrating the principles of this verse into everyday life, by cultivating a sense of detachment, and recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. By embracing this perspective, individuals can develop a more compassionate and empathetic approach to life, and contribute to the creation of a more just and harmonious world. As Radhakrishnan notes, the message of this verse is timeless and universal, offering a profound wisdom that can inspire and guide individuals on their journey towards self-discovery and spiritual growth.