tām yathā nityam aśnute

tām (that) yathā (how) nityam (always) aśnute (enjoys)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse tāṃ yathā nityam aśnute, as explained by Shankara, signifies the constant and unbroken experience of the ultimate reality, Brahman. According to Shankara's commentary on the Kenopaniṣad, this verse underscores the idea that the Self (Ātman) is not different from Brahman. The phrase 'tāṃ yathā nityam' suggests an eternal and continuous enjoyment or experience of this ultimate reality, pointing towards the non-dual nature of existence where the distinction between the experiencer and the experienced dissolves. Shankara's reasoning, as seen in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, emphasizes that the knowledge of Brahman is not something that is attained but rather it is the realization of what has always been the case - the identity of Brahman and Ātman. This verse, therefore, supports the central tenet of Advaita Vedanta that the true Self is Brahman and that this understanding is the ultimate goal of human existence.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, the verse tāṃ yathā nityam aśnute is interpreted in the context of the loving relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Śrī Bhāṣya, while discussing the nature of Brahman, suggests that the experience of Brahman is not just a realization of an impersonal absolute but a personal and loving relationship with the Lord. The term 'tāṃ yathā nityam aśnute' can be seen as referring to the eternal and constant devotional service or loving remembrance of the Lord, which is considered the highest bliss. Madhvācārya, with his emphasis on the difference between the soul and God, would interpret this verse as underscoring the dependence of the jīva on Īśvara for eternal bliss, thus highlighting the importance of devotion and surrender to the will of the Lord.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The modern interpreters of Vedanta, such as Swami Vivekānanda and S. Rādhākrishnan, bring out the universal and practical applications of the verse tāṃ yathā nityam aśnute. Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the idea that the ultimate reality is not something external but is to be found within. He would interpret this verse as pointing towards the potential of every individual to experience this eternal bliss by turning inward and realizing their true nature. Rādhākrishnan, with his philosophical approach, sees this verse as underscoring the importance of spiritual experience in human life. He argues that the realization of the ultimate reality is not a mere intellectual exercise but a living and direct experience that transforms one's life. Both Vivekānanda and Rādhākrishnan connect this verse to the contemporary quest for meaning and fulfillment, suggesting that the eternal and unchanging bliss spoken of in the Upaniṣads is accessible to all and is the key to solving the problems of modern life.

More from this source