na tvātma nā tu tene'damasti nātra tvayī na tvayā .
“This (the world) is neither you, nor is it owned by you; it is not in you, nor are you in it.”
Structure
na - tvātma - nā - tu - tene - idam - asti - nātra - tvayī - na - tvayā
na (not) tvātma (yourself) nā (nor) tu (also) tene (by that) idam (this) asti (exists) nātra (not in this) tvayī (in you) na (nor) tvayā (by you)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| tvātma | tvātman | compound | karmadhāraya · "tvam + ātman" | your self |
| nā | nā | indeclinable | — | not |
| tu | tu | indeclinable | — | indeed, however |
| tene | tena | pronoun | instrumental · singular · masculine | by that one, by him |
| idam | idam | pronoun | nominative · neuter · neuter | this |
| asti | asti | verb | √as · laṭ-present · third | is |
| nātra | nātra | indeclinable | — | not here, not in this |
| tvayī | tvayī | pronoun | locative · singular · feminine | in you |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| tvayā | tvayā | pronoun | instrumental · singular · masculine | by you |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, emphasizing that the world is neither the self (ātman) nor owned by it. Shankara's commentary on the Brahma Sutras, particularly in the discussion of Brahman-ātman identity, resonates with this verse. The identity of Brahman and ātman is key, indicating that the ultimate reality is not the ephemeral world but the unchanging, all-pervading Brahman. This verse points to the illusory nature of the world, prompting the seeker to look beyond the mundane and realize the true, unchanging self. Shankara's reasoning on similar verses in the Upanishads highlights the importance of distinguishing between the unreal, changing world and the real, unchanging Brahman, leading to the understanding that 'I am Brahman' (Aham Brahmasmi). This realization is the essence of liberation, where the individual self (jiva) recognizes its true nature as Brahman, untouched by the transience of the world.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition offers a nuanced understanding of this verse, focusing on the relationship between the jiva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Ramanuja's visishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism) perspective suggests that while the world and the jiva are not the same as Īśvara, they are intimately connected and dependent on Him. This verse can be seen as highlighting the distinction between the jiva's inherent nature and its current state of bondage to the material world. Madhva's dvaita (dualism) philosophy, on the other hand, might interpret this verse as emphasizing the real distinction between the jiva and the world, as well as between both and Īśvara, underscoring the dependence of all on the Lord. Both perspectives within the Vaiṣṇava tradition encourage devotion to Īśvara as the means to transcend the limitations of the world and realize one's true, spiritual nature.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse has profound implications for contemporary life, touching on issues of identity, ownership, and the human condition. Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the universal principles underlying all existence, which this verse embodies. It reminds us that our true identity is not bound by the external world or our possessions but is rooted in the inner, unchanging self. This understanding can lead to a sense of detachment and freedom, allowing individuals to engage with the world without being enslaved by it. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed the importance of realizing the universal self, beyond the confines of the individual ego and worldly possessions. This realization not only liberates the individual but also fosters a sense of unity and compassion, essential for addressing the challenges of the modern world. By applying the wisdom of this verse, we can cultivate a more meaningful, balanced life, recognizing our place within the larger universe and our interconnectedness with all existence.