Shloka 16
Pṛthu Pursues the Earth and the Earth Takes the Form of a Cow
Bhūmi as Gauḥ
सा दिशो विदिशो देवी रोदसी चान्तरं तयो: । धावन्ती तत्र तत्रैनं ददर्शानूद्यतायुधम् ॥ १६ ॥
sā diśo vidiśo devī rodasī cāntaraṁ tayoḥ dhāvantī tatra tatrainaṁ dadarśānūdyatāyudham
The goddess Earth, in the form of a cow, ran in all directions—through the quarters and even into the space between the heavenly worlds and the earth. Wherever she fled, she saw the King pursuing her with bow and arrows raised.
FAQs
Because the Earth had been withholding nourishment (resources like grains and prosperity) from the citizens; fearing punishment from the righteous king Pṛthu, she fled in all directions to avoid his raised weapons.
It teaches that a true king must actively protect citizens and restore dharma and prosperity—even confronting powerful forces—while ultimately ensuring order and welfare for all.
Do not evade responsibility when your actions harm others; and when you hold authority, use it firmly yet righteously to correct imbalance and protect the well-being of those dependent on you.