Ayaṃ gauḥ pṛśniḥ uta pṛśniḥ Sa īṃ pṛśniṃ taraṇāya

Ayaṃ (this) gauḥ (cow) pṛśniḥ (variegated or speckled) uta (and) pṛśniḥ (variegated or speckled) Saḥ (he) īṃ (this) pṛśniṃ (variegated or speckled cow) taraṇāya (for crossing over or traversing)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Ṛgveda presents an intriguing allegory when interpreted through the lens of non-dualism. The cow, pṛśni, and her companion, also pṛśni, symbolize the ultimate reality, Brahman, and the individual self, ātman, respectively. The speckled nature of the cows represents the diverse manifestations of Brahman in the universe. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasūtra, emphasizes the notion that the ultimate reality is beyond all distinctions, including those implied by the concept of 'another.' Thus, the 'another' speckled cow accompanying the first symbolizes the illusory distinction between the individual self and the ultimate reality. This verse, when understood in the context of non-dualism, points towards the unity of Brahman and ātman, suggesting that the distinctions we perceive in the world are ultimately illusory. By citing the Chandogya Upaniṣad, where it is stated 'Tat tvam asi' (That Thou Art), Śaṅkarācārya reinforces the idea that the individual self is, in essence, not different from the ultimate reality, underscoring the verse's deeper non-dual significance.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a devotional reading of this verse, focusing on the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). According to Rāmānujācārya, the cows in this verse can be seen as symbols of the jīvas, while their speckled appearance represents the mixture of good and bad deeds that characterize individual souls. The action of the cow going to help in crossing the sea may be interpreted as the soul's attempt, aided by divine grace, to traverse the ocean of worldly existence (samsāra) and reach the shore of liberation (mokṣa). Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might view the verse as an illustration of the dependence of the jīva on Īśvara for salvation. The 'another' cow signifies the guidance and assistance provided by the Supreme Lord to the striving soul, emphasizing the necessity of devotion and surrender in achieving spiritual liberation. This interpretation highlights the personal aspect of the divine and the reciprocal relationship between the individual soul and God, central to Vaiṣṇava theology.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Radhakrishnan, key figures of Neo-Vedānta, would likely interpret this verse in a manner that emphasizes its universal and practical applications. The cow, pṛśni, symbolizes the inherent potential and strength within every individual, and its speckled appearance represents the diversity and uniqueness of human experience. The action of crossing the sea can be seen as a metaphor for overcoming life's challenges and striving for self-realization. This verse, in the context of contemporary life, encourages individuals to recognize their inner strength and strive for spiritual growth. Vivekānanda, in his lectures, often emphasized the importance of realizing one's true nature and the potential for spiritual evolution inherent in every being. Radhakrishnan, with his emphasis on the harmony of all existence, might view this verse as a call to recognize and respect the diversity and interconnectedness of all beings, promoting a universal message of unity and cooperation. This interpretation underscores the relevance of ancient wisdom to modern life, highlighting themes of self-empowerment and global harmony.

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