na liṅgaliṅgī na naṭaḥ
“Not because of the dress or the dance”
Structure
na liṅga liṅgī na naṭaḥ
naṭaḥ (the actor) na (not) liṅga liṅgī (a linga or a woman with a linga / a symbol of Shiva or a female symbol)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| liṅga | liṅga | noun | nominative · singular · neuter | mark, sign, characteristic |
| liṅgī | liṅgī | noun | nominative · singular · feminine | she who has a distinctive mark |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not |
| naṭaḥ | naṭaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | actor, dancer |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse na liṅgaliṅgī na naṭaḥ underscores the non-dual nature of reality, hinting at the illusoriness of distinctions such as the masculine and feminine, or the actor and the act. According to Shankara's reasoning in the Brahmasutrabhashya, all such distinctions are ultimately sublated in the realization of Brahman, the ultimate non-dual reality. This verse points to the brahman-ātman identity by implying that the true Self is beyond all conditioning and role-playing, unencumbered by the limiting and dualistic notions of gender or profession. Shankara's commentary on the Taittiriya Upanishad also reinforces this idea, emphasizing that the Atman is 'neither masculine nor feminine' but the ultimate essence beyond such dualities. This understanding is central to the Advaita tradition, guiding the seeker towards the non-dual realization that transcends all external and internal differentiations.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of na liṅgaliṅgī na naṭaḥ highlights the distinction between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord), while also emphasizing their interrelatedness. Ramanuja, for instance, might view this verse as underscoring the importance of recognizing one's true nature as a servant of the Lord, unbound by external roles or identities. This realization fosters a deeper devotional relationship between the jīva and Īśvara. Madhva, on the other hand, might emphasize the distinction between the Lord and the individual souls, highlighting how this verse reminds us that our true identity and purpose are found in our relationship with God, rather than in temporal roles or attributes. Both perspectives converge on the idea that spiritual liberation involves recognizing and transcending the limitations of our mundane identities to embrace our true, eternal relationship with the Divine.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekananda would likely approach the verse na liṅgaliṅgī na naṭaḥ with an emphasis on its universal and practical implications for modern life. He might interpret it as a call to transcend the superficial distinctions and role-playing that often define our lives, in favor of discovering our deeper, universal identity. In his lectures on 'The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda', Vivekananda discusses the importance of realizing one's true Self beyond the ephemeral roles and identities imposed by society. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical writings, could connect this verse to the idea of realizing one's true potential and purpose, unshackled by the constraints of external expectations or societal norms. This perspective encourages individuals to embrace their intrinsic freedom and universality, fostering a more authentic, meaningful, and inclusive existence. By applying the principles of this verse, one can navigate the complexities of modern life with greater wisdom, compassion, and self-awareness.