Diti’s Puṁsavana Vow, Indra’s Intervention, and the Birth of the Maruts
धातु: कुहू: सिनीवाली राका चानुमतिस्तथा । सायं दर्शमथ प्रात: पूर्णमासमनुक्रमात् ॥ ३ ॥ अग्नीन् पुरीष्यानाधत्त क्रियायां समनन्तर: । चर्षणी वरुणस्यासीद्यस्यां जातो भृगु: पुन: ॥ ४ ॥
dhātuḥ kuhūḥ sinīvālī rākā cānumatis tathā sāyaṁ darśam atha prātaḥ pūrṇamāsam anukramāt
Dhātā had four wives—Kuhū, Sinīvālī, Rākā, and Anumati—who bore, in order, sons named Sāyam, Darśa, Prātaḥ, and Pūrṇamāsa. Thereafter Vidhātā, through Kriyā, begot five fire-gods known as the Purīṣyas. Varuṇa’s wife was Carṣaṇī, in whose womb Bhṛgu, the son of Brahmā, took birth again.
This verse lists the lunar phases and notes the proper sequence of the new-moon (darśa) and full-moon (pūrṇamāsa) observances, indicating their place in Vedic religious timing.
In the narration of Diti’s vow and the related dharmic context, Śukadeva outlines regulated times and observances that frame righteous conduct and ritual discipline.
Keeping regular sacred rhythms—such as setting aside Amavasya/Purnima for prayer, fasting, charity, or extra japa—strengthens self-control and devotion.