na tvāham avamanye tvāṃ yathāham tanniveditam
“I do not disrespect you in the way I have told.”
Structure
na tvāham avamanye tvām yathā aham tat niveditam
na (not) tvām (you) avamanye (disrespect) aham (I) yathā (as) aham (I) tat (that) niveditam (told)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| tvāham | tvāham | compound | dvandva · "tvā + aham" | you and I |
| avamanye | avamanye | verb | √man · laṭ-present · first | I despise |
| tvām | tvām | pronoun | accusative · singular | you |
| yathā | yathā | indeclinable | — | as, in the manner that |
| aham | aham | pronoun | nominative · singular | I |
| tat | tat | pronoun | nominative · neuter singular · neuter | that |
| niveditam | niveditam | verb | √vid · past participle | which has been declared or made known |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'na tvāham avamanye tvāṃ yathāham tanniveditam,' underscores the non-dual nature of reality when considering the intent behind the words. Shankara's commentary on the Brahma Sutras, specifically his explanation of Brahman being the ultimate reality and the illusory nature of the world (Maya), relates to this verse. Here, the speaker clarifies their intentions, emphasizing that there is no disrespect in their communication, much like the non-dual awareness that strips away the illusions of separation and disrespect between the individual self (ātman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). This points to the brahman-ātman identity where all distinctions, including those of disrespect, are transcended. By saying 'I do not disrespect you,' the speaker may be seen as reflecting the Advaitic perspective that all beings are interconnected and part of the same ultimate reality, thus disrespect to another is indirectly disrespect to oneself and the unified whole.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, with its emphasis on the personal relationship between the individual soul (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara), interprets this verse as a statement of devotion and humility. Rāmānujācārya, in his Bhāṣya on the Brahma Sutras, discusses the importance of bhakti (devotion) in achieving mokṣa (liberation), which involves a deep sense of respect and surrender to the Lord. This verse, 'na tvāham avamanye tvāṃ,' can be seen as an expression of the devotee's intention to maintain respect and reverence towards the Lord or towards other beings, recognizing the Lord's presence in all. Madhvācārya, from a Dvaita perspective, might view this as an acknowledgment of the difference between the Lord and the individual, yet emphasizing the importance of respectful interaction, mirroring the relationship between the Lord and His devotees.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, often spoke about the practical applications of Vedāntic principles in everyday life. This verse, 'na tvāham avamanye tvāṃ,' can be seen as a call to respectful communication and the avoidance of misunderstandings. In his lectures, Vivekānanda emphasized the importance of seeing the divine in every being and treating all with respect and kindness. Similarly, S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed the universal relevance of Indian thought, including the concept of non-duality and the pursuit of truth and respect in human interaction. This verse, in the context of modern life, encourages individuals to reflect on their interactions, ensuring that their words and actions are respectful and considerate, fostering a more harmonious and compassionate society. It points to the universal values of respect, empathy, and understanding that are essential for personal and societal well-being.