Shloka 12

Matsya Purana — Cosmic Architecture of Sun–Moon and the ‘Houses of the Gods’

Devanagari script

प्राकाश्यं च तथौष्ण्यं च सौर्याग्नेये तु तेजसी परस्परानुप्रवेशाद् आप्यायेते दिवानिशम् //

Transliteration

prākāśyaṃ ca tathauṣṇyaṃ ca sauryāgneye tu tejasī parasparānupraveśād āpyāyete divāniśam //

Translation

Brightness and heat—these two powers, belonging to the solar and the fiery radiances—nourish and intensify one another through mutual interpenetration, day and night.

Word by Word

• प्राकाश्यम्: luminosity/brightness

• च: and

• तथा: likewise

• औष्ण्यम्: heat/warmth

• च: and

• सौर्याग्नेये: solar and fiery (belonging to the Sun and Fire)

• तु: indeed

• तेजसी: the two radiances/energies (two forms of tejas)

• परस्पर-अनुप्रवेशात्: by mutual entering/interpenetration

• आप्यायेते: they are nourished/increase/thrive

• दिवा-निशम्: by day and by night/continually

Speaker

• Lord Matsya (teaching Vaivasvata Manu)

Entities Mentioned

• Surya (Sun)
• Agni (Fire)
• Tejas

Tags

• Cosmology
• Tejas
• Surya
• Agni
• Natural Philosophy

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

It presents a cosmological principle: light and heat (tejas) operate as mutually reinforcing powers in the ordered universe, implying a regulated cosmic functioning rather than describing the flood or dissolution directly.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

By highlighting continual balance—heat and light sustaining each other—this verse supports the ethical ideal of reciprocity and maintenance (dharana): a king sustains society as society sustains the king; a householder maintains steady discipline day and night.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

Tejas as light and heat is foundational for Vastu thinking: proper orientation, sunlight access, and controlled fire/heat (Agni) are treated as sustaining forces for a healthy dwelling and for correct ritual fire practice.