Nāsti kasya na pāpmanah.
“There is no one who is without sin.”
Structure
Nāsti kasya na pāpmanah
kasya (of whom) na (not) pāpmanah (sin) nāsti (there is) na (not)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nāsti | Nāsti | indeclinable | — | there is not |
| kasya | kasya | pronoun | genitive · singular · masculine | of whom |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| pāpmanah | pāpmanah | noun | ablative · singular · masculine | from sin |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'Nāsti kasya na pāpmanah,' underscores the inherent flaws in the human condition, implying that all individuals are beset by sin or imperfection. Shankara, in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, particularly in the discussion on the nature of the self (ātman), suggests that such flaws arise from ignorance (avidyā) of one's true nature. This ignorance leads to the misidentification of the self with the body, mind, and intellect, resulting in sinful actions. The recognition of this universal susceptibility to sin, as stated in the verse, serves as a catalyst for the pursuit of self-realization. By understanding that sin is an inherent part of the conditioned state, one can begin to seek liberation from this condition, ultimately leading to the realization of the brahman-ātman identity. This non-dual realization is the cornerstone of Advaita Vedānta, emphasizing that the true self (ātman) is untouched by sin and is, in essence, identical with the ultimate reality (brahman).
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition interprets the verse 'Nāsti kasya na pāpmanah' through the lens of devotion and the relationship between the individual self (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya, in his works, emphasizes the concept of 'aprāpti' or the inherent inability of the jīva to attain liberation without the grace of Īśvara. This verse highlights the universal condition of being entangled in sin, which, according to Rāmānuja, necessitates the acceptance of divine grace for redemption. The recognition of one's innate sinfulness can lead to humility and devotion, qualities that are fundamental in the Vaiṣṇava path towards liberation. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might view this verse as underscoring the real difference between the Lord and the souls, emphasizing that while all souls are inherently prone to sin, the Lord is absolutely pure and untouched by sin. This difference is crucial for understanding the dependence of the soul on the Lord for liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, would interpret 'Nāsti kasya na pāpmanah' as a call to self-reflection and introspection, emphasizing the universal human condition of imperfection. In his lecture 'The Ideal of a Universal Religion,' Vivekānanda discusses the importance of recognizing and overcoming one's limitations to achieve a higher state of consciousness. This verse, highlighting the inevitability of sin, serves as a reminder of the human condition's inherent flaws and the need for personal and spiritual growth. S. Radhakrishnan, another influential Neo-Vedāntin, might view this verse as an affirmation of the human potential for moral and spiritual evolution. By acknowledging that no one is without sin, individuals can begin to strive for self-improvement and ethical living, contributing to a more harmonious and compassionate society. This practical and universal application of the verse aligns with Radhakrishnan's emphasis on the relevance of Vedāntic principles to contemporary life and global understanding.