na hyasiddhaye kaśyacit
“For no one is born accomplished.”
Structure
na hi asiddhaye kaśyacit
kaśyacit (anyone) na hi (not indeed) asiddhaye (for failure/being unsuccessful)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| hi | hi | indeclinable | — | for|indeed |
| asiddhaye | asiddhaye | noun | dative · singular · feminine | for accomplishment|success |
| kaśyacit | kaśyacit | compound | bahuvrīhi · "kaḥ cit" | anyone|someone |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse 'na hyasiddhaye kaśyacit' underscores the non-dual nature of reality, suggesting that accomplishment or perfection is not inherent in any individual from birth. According to Shankara, the concept of 'asiddhaye' or lack of accomplishment points to the illusion of separateness and the impermanence of worldly attainments. In his commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad, Shankara emphasizes that true accomplishment lies in realizing the identity of brahman and ātman, which transcends worldly achievements. This verse thus serves as a reminder to seek the timeless and absolute reality beyond fleeting worldly successes, highlighting the path to self-realization and ultimate liberation. Shankara's reasoning on this verse aligns with his broader philosophical framework, where the emphasis is on the attainment of knowledge that reveals the non-dual nature of existence, leading to the realization that one's true nature is not bound by the limitations of birth or worldly accomplishments.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, the verse 'na hyasiddhaye kaśyacit' is seen as a call to devotion and surrender to Īśvara. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Brahmasutras, interprets the lack of inherent accomplishment as a reminder of the dependent nature of the jīva (individual self) on Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). According to Ramanuja, the realization that one is not born accomplished underscores the need for prapatti, or complete surrender to God, as the means to achieve true fulfillment and liberation. This surrender involves recognizing one's limitations and offering oneself to the divine will, leading to a life of devotion and service. Madhvācārya, on the other hand, might view this verse through the lens of his concept of 'svatantra' and 'paratantra', emphasizing the distinction between the independent reality of Īśvara and the dependent reality of the jīva, reinforcing the idea that true accomplishment comes from acknowledging and embracing this dependence on the divine.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The verse 'na hyasiddhaye kaśyacit' resonates with the modern interpretation of Vedānta as a call to self-empowerment and the realization of one's innate potential. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the importance of effort and self-struggle in achieving spiritual growth and worldly success. He might see this verse as a reminder that true accomplishment is not a gift of birth but a result of dedicated effort and perseverance. Vivekānanda's concept of 'potential divinity' in every individual aligns with the idea that one must strive to uncover and develop their inner capacities, underscoring the verse's message. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, highlighted the universal relevance of such verses, suggesting that they offer a profound message about human potential and the path to self-realization, applicable across cultures and times. Both Vivekānanda and Radhakrishnan would likely interpret this verse as a universal call to action, encouraging individuals to embrace their journey towards self-discovery and accomplishment, unencumbered by the limitations of birth or circumstance.