Shloka 24
Pṛthu Pursues the Earth and the Earth Takes the Form of a Cow
Bhūmi as Gauḥ
त्वं खल्वोषधिबीजानि प्राक् सृष्टानि स्वयम्भुवा । न मुञ्चस्यात्मरुद्धानि मामवज्ञाय मन्दधी: ॥ २४ ॥
tvaṁ khalv oṣadhi-bījāni prāk sṛṣṭāni svayambhuvā na muñcasy ātma-ruddhāni mām avajñāya manda-dhīḥ
The seeds of herbs and grains, created long ago by Brahmā, are hidden within you; yet, with dull intelligence, you disregard my order and do not release them.
While creating all the planets in the universe, Lord Brahmā also created the seeds of various grains, herbs, plants and trees. When sufficient water falls from the clouds, the seeds fructify and produce fruits, grains, vegetables, etc. By his example, Pṛthu Mahārāja indicates that whenever there is a scarcity in food production, the head of the government should take steps to see why production is being held up and what should be done to rectify the situation.
FAQs
This verse shows King Pṛthu accusing the Earth of withholding the plant and herb seeds created by Brahmā, indicating that scarcity is a deviation from proper cosmic and social order when resources are unjustly restrained.
Because the Earth had stopped yielding vegetation, causing hardship for beings; Pṛthu, as a dharmic ruler, confronted her for keeping the seeds locked within herself and not supplying necessities.
Leaders and institutions should responsibly steward resources and ensure fair distribution; individuals can practice dharma by avoiding hoarding and supporting systems that sustainably provide essentials for all.