na hi duṣṭopi kas tvayi samṛddhaḥ
“For even an evil person becomes prosperous because of you.”
Structure
na hi duṣṭo api kaḥ tvayi samṛddhaḥ
kaḥ (who) api (even) duṣṭoḥ (wicked) na hi (not indeed) tvayi (in you) samṛddhaḥ (prosperous)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| hi | hi | indeclinable | — | for, indeed |
| duṣṭo | duṣṭaḥ | adjective | — | corrupted, wicked |
| api | api | indeclinable | — | also, even |
| kaḥ | kaḥ | pronoun | nominative · singular · masculine | who |
| tvayi | tvayi | pronoun | locative · singular · masculine | in you |
| samṛddhaḥ | samṛddhaḥ | adjective | — | prosperous, successful |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'na hi duṣṭopi kas tvayi samṛddhaḥ', underscores the non-dual nature of reality by pointing to the intrinsic connection between the individual self (jīva) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). According to Shankara, even an evil person's prosperity is a manifestation of Brahman's omnipresence, implying that the distinction between good and evil is secondary to the fundamental unity of existence. This interpretation echoes Shankara's commentary on the Brahmasūtra, where he emphasizes that the world and its phenomena are ultimately not separate from Brahman. Thus, the prosperity of even the wicked reflects the universal, all-pervading nature of Brahman, reaffirming the Advaitic principle that all is Brahman. This perspective encourages a contemplation on the absolute, unconditioned reality beyond moral dualities, highlighting the verse's contribution to the understanding of the brahman-ātman identity.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, the statement 'na hi duṣṭopi kas tvayi samṛddhaḥ' can be seen as an expression of the omnipotence and grace of Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, would likely interpret this verse as illustrating the concept of 'nidhidhyāsana', where even those who are considered wicked can experience a form of worldly prosperity due to the Lord's grace, though their spiritual growth may be hindered by their actions. This emphasizes the personal, relational aspect of the divine in Vaiṣṇavism, where the Lord's grace can extend beyond the boundaries of moral judgment, offering a path for redemption and spiritual salvation. Madhvācārya, with his emphasis on the distinction between the Lord and the individual souls, might view this verse as a demonstration of the Lord's sovereignty, wherein even the prosperity of the wicked serves a larger purpose within His plan, underscoring the complex interplay between divine grace and individual karma.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda and S. Radhakrishnan, key figures in the Neo-Vedānta movement, would likely interpret 'na hi duṣṭopi kas tvayi samṛddhaḥ' as a call to recognize the universal and inherent divinity in all beings, regardless of their actions or character. Vivekānanda, in his lectures, often emphasized the potential for spiritual growth and self-realization in every individual, suggesting that even the prosperity of the wicked could serve as a catalyst for their eventual awakening to their true nature. Radhakrishnan, with his philosophical approach, might expand on this by highlighting the ethical implications of such a perspective, encouraging readers to adopt a compassionate and inclusive worldview that sees the divine spark in all, thereby promoting a more harmonious and equitable society. This interpretation aligns with Vivekānanda's message of universal brotherhood and Radhakrishnan's emphasis on the practical application of Vedāntic principles in contemporary life, making the verse highly relevant to modern societal challenges and personal spiritual quests.