Nātma balam na rājoṣ tu vaśe
“One's own self is not under the control of the king”
Structure
Nā ātma balam na rājoḥ tu vaśe
Rājoḥ (of the king) vaśe (under control) na (not) ātma balam (one's own strength) tu (but) na (not)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nā | Nā | indeclinable | — | not, no |
| ātma | ātma | noun | nominative · singular · neuter | self, soul |
| balam | balam | noun | nominative · singular · neuter | strength |
| na | na | indeclinable | — | not, no |
| rājoḥ | rājoḥ | noun | genitive · singular · masculine | of a king |
| tu | tu | indeclinable | — | indeed, surely |
| vaśe | vaśe | noun | locative · singular · masculine | in control |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, Nā ātma balam na rājoḥ tu vaśe, underscores the non-dual nature of reality, where the ultimate truth, Brahman, is beyond human control or dominion. According to Shankara, the Atman, or individual self, is not subject to external authorities, including kings, because it is essentially one with Brahman. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara explains that the Atman is free from all limitations, including those imposed by human rulers. This verse points to the brahman-ātman identity, where the individual self is not controlled by external forces but is, in fact, the unchanging and all-pervading reality. By realizing this truth, one transcends the bounds of worldly power and achieves liberation. Shankara's reasoning on this verse aligns with his broader philosophical framework, emphasizing the direct experience of non-duality as the path to true freedom.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): This verse highlights the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the supreme Lord). According to Ramanuja, the jīva is not entirely independent but is, in fact, dependent on Īśvara for its very existence. However, this verse also suggests that the jīva has a degree of autonomy, which is not under the control of human rulers. Ramanuja would likely interpret this verse as emphasizing the importance of surrendering to the divine will, rather than human authority. In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, Ramanuja explains that the jīva's true freedom lies in submitting to the will of Īśvara, rather than trying to assert its own independence. This verse, in the Vaiṣṇava tradition, serves as a reminder of the jīva's ultimate dependence on the divine and the need to cultivate devotion and surrender.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse, Nā ātma balam na rājoḥ tu vașe, has profound implications for contemporary life. According to Swami Vivekananda, this verse emphasizes the inherent freedom and dignity of the individual. In his lecture on 'The Freedom of the Soul,' Vivekananda explains that true freedom lies within, beyond the reach of external authorities. This verse serves as a reminder that our true nature is not subject to the whims of human rulers or external circumstances. Radhakrishnan, in his writings, also highlights the universal significance of this verse, stressing that it points to the inherent autonomy and worth of every individual. In today's world, where individual freedoms are often threatened, this verse offers a powerful reminder of the importance of inner strength, self-reliance, and the pursuit of spiritual freedom. By embracing this truth, we can cultivate a deeper sense of purpose, resilience, and freedom, unshackled by external constraints.