Shloka 53

Matsya Purana — Description of Gomedaka and Puṣkara Dvīpas; the Lokāloka Boundary; Ocean Tide...

Devanagari script

आधाराधेयभावेन विकारास्ते विकारिणाम् पृथ्व्यादयो विकारास्ते परिच्छिन्नाः परस्परम् //

Transliteration

ādhārādheyabhāvena vikārāste vikāriṇām pṛthvyādayo vikārāste paricchinnāḥ parasparam //

Translation

Through the relation of supporter and supported (substratum and dependent), these modifications belong to that which undergoes modification. The elements beginning with earth are such modifications, mutually delimited and defined in relation to one another.

Word by Word

• ādhāra: support, substratum

• ādheya-bhāva: the state of being supported/dependent

• ādhārādheya-bhāvena: by the relation of substratum and dependent

• vikārāḥ: modifications, transformations

• te: these

• vikāriṇām: of those that are subject to change (the mutable principles)

• pṛthvī-ādayaḥ: earth and the rest (the gross elements)

• paricchinnāḥ: bounded, delimited, defined

• parasparam: mutually, in relation to each other

Speaker

• Lord Matsya (in instruction to Vaivasvata Manu)

Entities Mentioned

• Prithvi (Earth)

Tags

• Cosmology
• Tattva
• Panchabhuta
• Creation Theory
• Sankhya-like Analysis

FAQs

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

It frames the world as a set of mutable transformations (vikāra) whose existence is relational—dependent on a supporting substratum—implying that in pralaya these bounded element-forms withdraw back into their support/source.

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

By emphasizing mutual dependence and defined boundaries, it supports an ethical reading of dharma: rulers and householders should maintain proper limits (maryādā) and recognize interdependence in society, resources, and conduct.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

The idea of elements being “mutually delimited” underpins Vastu thinking: temple/town planning and ritual layouts treat earth and other elemental qualities as distinct yet interrelated, guiding material choice, orientation, and spatial boundaries.