na hi duḥkhena vinnirvartituṃ śakyam
“For it is not possible to get rid of sorrow”
Structure
na hi duḥkhena vinnirvartitum śakyam
duḥkhena (by suffering) na hi (not indeed) vinnirvartitum (to be avoided) śakyam (can be)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| hi | hi | indeclinable | — | for, indeed |
| duḥkhena | duḥkhena | noun | instrumental · singular · neuter | with suffering |
| vinnirvartitum | vinnirvartitum | verb | √vart · infinitive | to live through, endure |
| śakyam | śakyam | noun | nominative · singular · neuter | it is possible |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, na hi duḥkhena vinnirvartituṃ śakyam, underscores the futility of attempting to eradicate sorrow through external means. According to Shankara, true liberation from sorrow can only be achieved through the realization of the non-dual nature of Brahman and Ātman. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara emphasizes that the root of all suffering lies in the misapprehension of the self as being bound by the limitations of the physical world. The phrase 'na hi duḥkhena' highlights the inability to dispel sorrow through worldly means, pointing the seeker towards thepath of self-inquiry and the ultimate understanding of the identity of Brahman and Ātman. This realization alone can bring about the cessation of sorrow, as it transcends the fleeting nature of worldly experiences. Through this understanding, one can attain a state of profound peace and liberation, unencumbered by the ephemeral nature of worldly sorrows.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the context of Vaiṣṇava philosophy, this verse is seen as an reminder of the inherent dependence of the jīva (individual self) on Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the concept of prapatti, or surrendered devotion, as the means to attain liberation from sorrow. The phrase 'na hi duḥkhena' is understood as a call to recognize the futility of self-effort in dispelling sorrow, and to instead seek refuge in the divine. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, views this verse as an affirmation of the distinction between the jīva and Īśvara, highlighting the need for the individual to acknowledge their inherent limitations and seek the grace of the Supreme. Through devotion and surrender, the jīva can experience a profound sense of peace and liberation, as they come to realize their true nature as a dependent yet beloved servant of the Lord.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse, in the context of modern Vedānta, serves as a poignant reminder of the human condition. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the practical applications of Vedānta, often emphasized the importance of recognizing the impermanence of worldly experiences and the inherent suffering that arises from attachment to them. The phrase 'na hi duḥkhena' is seen as a call to introspection, encouraging the individual to look beyond the surface level of existence and to seek a deeper understanding of the self. S. Rādhākrishnan, in his writings on the relevance of Vedānta in contemporary life, highlights the universal applicability of this verse, pointing out that the struggle to overcome sorrow is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. By embracing the wisdom of this verse, individuals can cultivate a sense of detachment, compassion, and inner peace, allowing them to navigate the challenges of life with greater equanimity and understanding.