tasya vacanāt rājā parituṣyata sa gṛhītvā ca dhanur vid

tasya (his) vacanāt (from words) rājā (the king) parituṣyata (became pleased) saḥ (he) gṛhītvā (having taken) ca (and) dhanuḥ (the bow) vid (obtained)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, in the context of the Rāmāyaṇa, exemplifies the concept of parituṣṭi or satisfaction, which is a key aspect of understanding the nature of the Self. According to Shankara, the satisfaction experienced by the king upon hearing the words and seeing the expertise of the archer reflects the inherent satisfaction that arises from realizing one's true nature. This satisfaction is not dependent on external objects or actions but is an intrinsic quality of the Self. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara often emphasizes the importance of recognizing the distinction between the transient, conditioned world and the unconditioned, eternal essence of reality. This verse illustrates how, in the midst of action and interaction, there can be a glimpse of this unchanging, satisfied essence, pointing towards the brahman-ātman identity. The act of handing over the bow to a skilled archer can be seen as a symbol of surrendering one's ego and actions to a higher principle, reflecting the non-dual understanding that all actions are ultimately performed by the one, unchanging reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of this verse would focus on the relationship between the jīva (the individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, discusses the concept of parituṣṭi in the context of the divine grace that descends upon the devotee, enabling them to recognize their true dependence on God. The king's delight and subsequent action of handing over the bow can be seen as symbolic of the surrender of one's ego and will to the divine will, reflecting the principle of prapatti or self-surrender, which is central to Vaiṣṇava theology. Madhvācārya, from a Dvaita perspective, would likely emphasize the distinction between the king's action, motivated by his own satisfaction, and the supreme lord's grace, highlighting the dependent relationship between the jīva and Īśvara. This verse, in the Vaiṣṇava tradition, underscores the devotional path, where the jīva seeks to please and surrender to Īśvara, exemplified by the king's gesture of handing over the bow to the skilled archer.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda often spoke about the importance of selflessness and the dedication of one's actions to a higher cause. This verse, from a Neo-Vedānta perspective, can be seen as an illustration of the practical application of these principles. The king's satisfaction upon hearing the words and his subsequent action symbolize the selfless dedication of one's talents and resources for the greater good. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda emphasized the need for service and the relinquishing of personal attachments for spiritual growth. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed the concept of 'anāsakti' or non-attachment, highlighting its significance in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life. This verse, in the context of modern life, reminds us of the importance of letting go of our egoistic tendencies and working selflessly towards a common goal, much like the king's gesture of entrusting the bow to a skilled archer, symbolizing the delegation of responsibility for the betterment of all.

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