tayostv asminnanvaye'sminn arājyād varuṇaṁ pitā . . 31 ..
“The father of those two, Varuṇa, was deprived of his kingdom in this family.”
Structure
tayoḥ tv asmin anvaaye asmin arājyāt varuṇaṁ pitā
pitā (father) asmin (in this) anvaaye (lineage) asmin (in this) arājyāt (kingdom-less state or lack of kingdom) tayoḥ (of the two) tv (your) varuṇaṁ (takes/ chooses)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tayoḥ | tayoḥ | pronoun | genitive · dual · not applicable | of them two |
| tv | tv | indeclinable | — | for you |
| asmin | asmin | pronoun | locative · singular · not applicable | in this |
| anvaaye | anvāye | noun | locative · singular · masculine | in this line or succession |
| asmin | asmin | pronoun | locative · singular · not applicable | in this |
| arājyāt | arājyāt | noun | ablative · singular · masculine | from the kingdom |
| varuṇaṁ | varuṇaṁ | noun | accusative · singular · masculine | Varuṇa |
| pitā | pitā | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | father |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Rāmāyaṇa offers insight into the nature of reality when understood through the lens of non-duality. Shankara's commentary, while primarily focused on the Upanishads, can be applied here to reveal the deeper significance of Varuṇa's loss of kingdom. In essence, the deprivation of Varuṇa signifies the eventual realization that the ultimate reality, Brahman, is beyond temporal and spatial limitations, including kingdoms or worldly dominions. The narrative of Varuṇa, a deity, facing such a loss, points to the illusionary nature of worldly power and the inevitability of change, guiding the seeker towards the eternal and unchanging essence that is the Brahman-ātman. This verse, through Shankara's philosophical framework, underscores the journey of self-discovery, where the transient nature of worldly attachments, including power and kingdoms, is transcended to realize the non-dual identity of the individual self (ātman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman).
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, particularly through the lens of Rāmānujācārya, views this verse as an illustration of the complex relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Varuṇa's deprivation of his kingdom can be seen as a metaphor for the dependence of all beings, including divine beings, on the will of the Supreme. This narrative highlights the grace of Īśvara, who, in his infinite compassion, may choose to humble even the gods to remind them of their place within the cosmic order. Rāmānujācārya would likely interpret this as an example of the Lords' ways being beyond human comprehension, yet always acting for the ultimate good of all souls. This verse, therefore, reinforces the Vaiṣṇava doctrine of prapatti, or total surrender to the divine will, acknowledging the absolute dependence of the jīva on Īśvara for salvation and spiritual growth.
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 from the Rāmāyaṇa can be seen as a call to introspection and self-realization, encouraging individuals to look beyond the ephemeral nature of worldly power and success. The story of Varuṇa serves as a reminder that true strength and wisdom lie not in external possessions or status but in the realization of one's inner divine nature. Vivekānanda would interpret Varuṇa's loss as an opportunity for spiritual awakening, urging individuals to embrace challenges and setbacks as stepping stones towards the realization of their true potential. In contemporary life, this verse can inspire individuals to cultivate detachment, resilience, and a deeper understanding of their place within the larger cosmic scheme, aligning with Vivekānanda's vision of a life dedicated to service, self-realization, and the pursuit of universal well-being.