na hi duḥkhāt prāptum arhati sukhaṁ vai duḥkham eva iha niṣprayojanam

na (no) hi (indeed) duḥkhāt (from suffering) prāptum (to be obtained) arhati (ought) sukhaṁ (happiness) vai (indeed) duḥkham (suffering) eva (only) iha (here) niṣprayojanam (is purposeless)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, suggesting that suffering and happiness are not disparate entities but are intertwined as aspects of the phenomenal world. According to Shankara, the pursuit of happiness through the avoidance of misery is ultimately futile because both are transient and rooted in the ignorance of one's true nature. The verse points to the brahman-ātman identity by implying that true liberation from suffering can only be achieved by realizing one's essential nature, which is beyond the duality of pleasure and pain. As Shankara notes in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, the ultimate goal is to transcend the limitations of the empirical world and realize the non-dual Self. This verse, therefore, serves as a reminder of the impermanence of worldly experiences and the importance of seeking lasting peace through self-inquiry and the cultivation of wisdom.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, this verse highlights the significance of devotion and surrender to a higher power as a means to transcend worldly suffering. Ramanuja, in his interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's limitations and surrendering to the divine will. The verse suggests that attempts to find happiness through worldly means are ultimately futile and that true fulfillment can only be achieved through a loving relationship with the divine. Madhva, on the other hand, would likely interpret this verse as underscoring the importance of recognizing the distinction between the self and the Supreme, and the need for devotion and service to achieve liberation from suffering. Both Ramanuja and Madhva would agree, however, that the pursuit of happiness through worldly means is ultimately a form of ignorance, and that true liberation requires a deep understanding of the self and its relationship to the divine.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse has profound implications for modern life, as it underscores the impermanence of worldly experiences and the need to cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Swami Vivekananda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the importance of moving beyond the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and pains, and cultivating a sense of inner strength and resilience. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his writings on the Upanishads, notes that true happiness can only be achieved by transcending the limitations of the ego and recognizing one's essential nature as a spark of the divine. This verse, therefore, serves as a call to action, encouraging individuals to re-examine their values and priorities, and to cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and purpose in their lives. By recognizing the impermanence of worldly experiences, individuals can begin to appreciate the importance of living in the present moment, and cultivating a sense of compassion, empathy, and understanding for themselves and others.

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