na - tvahaṃ - kāmaye - rājyaṃ - na - ca - rājyasya - kāmanā

ahaṃ (I) tv (not) rājyaṃ (kingdom) kāmaye (desire) na (not) ca (and) rājyasya (of kingdom) kāmanā (for the desire)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of ultimate reality, emphasizing the futility of desiring transient worldly possessions like kingdoms. According to Shankara, the concept of 'I' (ahaṃ) is pivotal, as it signifies the individual self (jīva) that mistakenly identifies with ephemeral entities, leading to desires (kāmanā) for things such as kingdoms (rājya). The negation of desire for kingdom (na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ) points to the realization that the true Self (ātman) is not bound by such worldly aspirations, thereby implying the identity of the individual self with the ultimate reality (Brahman). This understanding resonates with Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasūtras, where he discusses the illusoriness of the world (māyā) and the path to realizing one's true nature as Brahman. Through this verse, one is directed towards introspection, to discern the distinction between the permanent, all-pervading Self and the transient, limited kingdom, thereby facilitating the realization of the non-dual essence.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse can be seen as an expression of detachment and self-surrender, fundamental principles in Vaiṣṇava philosophy. Rāmānujācārya would interpret the rejection of kingdom and its desires as a reflection of the jīva's (individual soul's) inherent dependence on Īśvara (the Supreme Lord), recognizing that true fulfillment and peace are not achievable through worldly means but through devotion to the divine. The statement 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ' signifies the jīva's renunciation of personal desires, aiming to align with the will of Īśvara. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might view this verse through the lens of duality (dvaita), emphasizing the real distinction between the individual self and the Supreme, yet also highlighting the importance of bhakti (devotion) as the means to attain spiritual liberation. For both, the focus is on transcending worldly attachments, redirecting one's aspirations towards a spiritual goal, and acknowledging the sovereignty of the divine in all aspects of life.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound message relevant to modern life, emphasizing the importance of detachment and the pursuit of inner fulfillment. Swami Vivekānanda might interpret 'na tvahaṃ kāmaye rājyaṃ' as a call to reevaluate one's priorities, recognizing that true strength and happiness lie not in external possessions or power but in the realization of one's inner self. He would likely connect this verse to his teachings on the four yogas (Jnana, Bhakti, Karma, and Raja), suggesting that the relinquishment of desires for external validation is a common thread in the pursuit of spiritual growth and self-actualization. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan would view this verse as an invitation to explore the universal principles of Vedānta, where the individual self (jīva) is encouraged to look beyond the confines of the ego and worldly desires, striving for a higher, more inclusive understanding of reality and one's place within it. This approach encourages individuals to seek harmony between their personal aspirations and the greater good, fostering a sense of global citizenship and shared humanity.

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