Ayaṃ gauḥ pṛśni-gauḥ pingalām

Ayaṃ (this) gauḥ (cow) pṛśni-gauḥ (brownish-red cow) pingalām (to the reddish-brown one)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Brahmasūtras, Śaṅkarācārya emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality. When interpreting this verse from the Ṛgveda, Ayaṃ gauḥ pṛśnigauḥ pingalām, we see the description of a cow that is variegated and reddish-brown. Shankara might argue that the apparent duality in the description of the cow (its variegated and reddish-brown colors) points to the ultimate non-dual reality of Brahman. The cow, as a symbol, can represent the jīva (individual self) bound by the limitations of māyā (illusion), yet ultimately, the true nature of the self (ātman) is pure and undivided, akin to Brahman. Thus, the verse indirectly suggests the brahman-ātman identity by highlighting the illusory nature of distinctions, guiding the seeker towards the realization of the non-dual ultimate reality. This interpretation aligns with Shankara's reasoning in the Brahmasūtra Bhāṣya, where he discusses the removal of avidyā (ignorance) to reveal the true, unchanging Self.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, particularly through the lens of Rāmānujācārya, might view this verse as an allegory for the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). The cow, with its variegated and reddish-brown appearance, could symbolize the jīva's entanglement in the world of differences (prapañca), while the inherent uniqueness and beauty of the cow might signify the jīva's intrinsic worth and potential for devotion. Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, emphasizes the importance of bhakti (devotion) as a means to realize the Lord. Thus, the verse indirectly points to the path of devotion, where the jīva, recognizing its true nature and the beauty of the world (as symbolized by the cow), turns towards Īśvara in love and service, ultimately realizing its true identity as a servant of the Lord. This devotional approach highlights the personal relationship between the jīva and Īśvara, central to Vaiṣṇava theology.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical and universal applications of Vedāntic principles. Regarding this verse, he might interpret the variegated and reddish-brown cow as a symbol of diversity and the beauty that lies within it. The cow, an animal revered for its nourishing qualities, represents the potential for growth, sustenance, and the interconnectedness of all life. Vivekānanda, in his speech 'The Common Bases of Hinduism', talked about the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diversity of human experience, while striving for the universal principles that unite us. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed the concept of 'integral humanism', which seeks to balance the individual's spiritual aspirations with social responsibility. This verse, therefore, can be seen as encouraging a holistic approach to life, where one appreciates the unique qualities in others and in nature, fostering a sense of community, respect, and care for the world around us, reflecting the universal and practical teachings of Neo-Vedānta.

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