na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ na ca rājyasya kāmaṇā

ahaṃ (I) na (not) kāmaye (desire) rājyaṃ (kingdom) ca (and) na (not) kāmaṇā (desire) rājyasya (of kingdom)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The statement 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ na ca rājyasya kāmana' underscores the non-dual essence of reality, as it points to the transcendence of worldly desires, including the desire for kingdom or power. According to Shankara, such desires are born out of ignorance (avidyā) of one's true nature, which is the ātman. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara emphasizes that the realization of brahman-ātman identity liberates one from the cycle of desires and births. This verse, by negating the desire for kingdom, hints at the ultimate reality that lies beyond the realm of worldly acquisitions, directing the seeker towards the understanding of the self (ātman) as the ultimate reality, which is one with brahman. Thus, the renunciation of desires, as expressed in this verse, is a step towards realizing the non-dual truth.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets this verse in the context of the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the importance of surrendering one's desires to the will of the Lord. This verse, by stating a lack of desire for kingdom or the desire for kingdom, can be seen as an expression of detachment, which is a crucial aspect of bhakti (devotion). The individual's detachment from worldly desires, including political power, is a precursor to cultivating an unalloyed devotion to the Lord. In this context, the verse suggests that true fulfillment and happiness can only be achieved through devotion to Īśvara, rather than through the pursuit of worldly power or possessions. Madhvācārya would further emphasize that such detachment is possible through the knowledge of the difference between the individual self and the Lord, and the recognition of one's total dependence on the Lord.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical application of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. This verse can be seen as a call to re-evaluate one's priorities and desires in the pursuit of true fulfillment. Vivekānanda would likely interpret this verse as an encouragement to move beyond the confines of personal ambition and worldly desires, towards a broader understanding of one's place in the world. He might argue that the desire for kingdom or power, when not tempered by a sense of service to others, can lead to exploitation and suffering. In contrast, the renunciation of such desires can lead to a life of service and compassion, which is in line with the universal principles of Vedānta. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, underscores the importance of integrating spiritual values into modern life, and this verse can be seen as a reminder of the need to cultivate inner detachment and a sense of higher purpose, even in the midst of worldly engagements.

More from this source