na hi duḥkheṇa duḥkhaṁ na sukhena sukhaṁ bhavet nā bhāvād rāgo na ca rāgād dveṣaḥ

na (not) hi (indeed) duḥkheṇa (with suffering) duḥkhaṁ (suffering) bhavet (arises) na (not) sukhena (with happiness) sukhaṁ (happiness) bhavet (arises) nā (not) bhāvād (from non-existence) rāgo (attachment) na (not) ca (and) rāgāt (from attachment) dveṣaḥ (hatred)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the non-dual nature of reality, hinting at the ultimate identity of brahman and ātman. According to Shankara, the cycle of sorrow and joy, attachment and aversion, is rooted in the misperception of a separate, independent self. In his commentary on the Brahmasūtra, Shankara argues that the notion of a permanent, unchanging self is incompatible with the fleeting nature of emotions and experiences. This verse supports Shankara's contention that liberation involves recognizing the illusoriness of the ego-bound self and realizing the unity of brahman and ātman. By stating that sorrow does not arise from sorrow, nor joy from joy, the verse points to the impermanence of all phenomena, encouraging the seeker to look beyond the ephemeral realm of duality and embrace the timeless, unchanging essence of brahman. In this sense, the verse serves as a reminder of the futility of seeking lasting happiness in the ever-changing world of samsāra, directing the aspirant toward the pursuit of Self-knowledge and the realization of the brahman-ātman identity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): From a devotional perspective, this verse highlights the complex interplay between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the role of bhakti (devotion) in transcending the cycles of sorrow and joy, attachment and aversion. According to Rāmānuja, the jīva's innate longing for union with Īśvara is often distorted by the influence of the three guṇas (qualities of nature), leading to the misperception of a separate, independent self. This verse serves as a reminder that true freedom and happiness can only be achieved through self-surrender and devotion to the Supreme Lord, who is beyond the realm of duality. Madhvācārya, in his Anuvyākhyāna, further elaborates on the distinction between the jīva and Īśvara, arguing that the jīva's experiences of sorrow and joy are inextricably linked to its relationship with Īśvara. By recognizing the dependence of the jīva on Īśvara, the devotee can cultivate a deep sense of humility and dependence, ultimately leading to the experience of eternal bliss and liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound insight into the human condition, highlighting the impermanence of all experiences, whether joyful or sorrowful. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes the importance of developing a detached attitude toward the vicissitudes of life, recognizing that true freedom and happiness can only be achieved by transcending the ego-bound self. According to Vivekānanda, the verse encourages us to look beyond the surface level of phenomena, to the deeper, unchanging reality that underlies all existence. In his book, 'The Essence of Vedanta', S. Rādhākrishnan further elaborates on the practical implications of this verse, arguing that the key to lasting happiness and fulfillment lies in cultivating a sense of inner detachment and equanimity, regardless of external circumstances. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all phenomena and the impermanence of all experiences, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of ourselves and the world, ultimately leading to a more compassionate, harmonious, and fulfilling existence.

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