na - tvahaṃ - kāmaye - rājyaṃ - na - ca - rājyasya - me - āvaśyakā

ahaṃ (I) na (not) kāmaye (desire) rājyaṃ (kingdom) na (and not) ca (also) me (to me) rājyasya (of kingdom) āvaśyakā (need) na (is not)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ na ca rājyasya me āvaśyakā', underscores the non-dual nature of reality by negating the desire for external accomplishments, such as kingdoms. According to Shankara, the ultimate reality, Brahman, is untouched by human desires and needs. In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, Shankara emphasizes the idea that the Self (ātman) is not bound by worldly desires, including the desire for kingdoms. This verse, in essence, points towards the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal Self (Brahman), suggesting that true fulfillment lies in realizing this identity, not in external achievements. By saying 'I do not desire a kingdom', the verse encourages the seeker to look inward, towards the realization of the true Self, beyond the fleeting nature of worldly power and possessions.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets this verse as an expression of detachment from worldly desires, emphasizing the devotion to a higher power, Īśvara. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, discusses the concept of prapatti, or surrender, to the divine will. This verse can be seen as a manifestation of prapatti, where the individual surrenders their desires, including the desire for kingdoms, to the will of Īśvara. The relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara is one of dependence and surrender, highlighting the futility of human endeavors without divine grace. Madhvācārya, in his Dvaita Vedanta, might interpret this verse as emphasizing the complete dependence of the jīva on Īśvara, even in matters of worldly success and failure, underscoring the concept of bhakti, or devotion, as the means to true liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the universal and practical application of Vedantic principles in everyday life. This verse, 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ na ca rājyasya me Āvaśyakā', can be seen as a call to re-evaluate one's priorities and desires in the context of contemporary life. It suggests that true fulfillment does not lie in external achievements or possessions but in realizing one's inner potential and contributing to the greater good. In his speech 'The Real Nature of the Soul', Vivekānanda talks about the importance of self-realization and the need to move beyond the confines of worldly desires. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, discusses the relevance of Indian thought in modern times, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to life that combines material well-being with spiritual growth. This verse can be seen as a reminder of the need for such balance, encouraging individuals to reflect on their true needs and aspirations beyond material success.

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