Shloka 12
Pṛthu Mahārāja Milks the Earth (Bhūmi-dugdha) and Organizes Human Settlement
इति प्रियं हितं वाक्यं भुव आदाय भूपति: । वत्सं कृत्वा मनुं पाणावदुहत्सकलौषधी: ॥ १२ ॥
iti priyaṁ hitaṁ vākyaṁ bhuva ādāya bhūpatiḥ vatsaṁ kṛtvā manuṁ pāṇāv aduhat sakalauṣadhīḥ
Hearing the earth’s pleasing and beneficial words, the king accepted them. He then made Svāyambhuva Manu into a calf and milked the earth, as a cow, drawing forth all herbs and grains and collecting them in his cupped hands.
FAQs
This verse shows that when a righteous ruler accepts the Earth’s beneficial counsel and protects her, the Earth reciprocates by providing essential resources—here, medicinal herbs—supporting the well-being of all.
In the symbolism of “milking,” the calf draws out the milk; Manu, the progenitor and lawgiver, represents regulated dharma—through dharmic order, the Earth’s gifts are properly obtained and distributed.
Prosperity is sustained by responsible stewardship: take guidance that is both pleasing and beneficial, protect nature, and live with regulation and gratitude so resources serve healing and welfare rather than exploitation.