Shloka 2

Matsya Purana — Manvantaras

Devanagari script

विस्तरेणानुपूर्व्याच्च स्थितिं वक्ष्ये युगे युगे तस्मिन्युगे च सम्भूतिर् यासां यावच्च जीवितम् //

Transliteration

vistareṇānupūrvyācca sthitiṃ vakṣye yuge yuge tasminyuge ca sambhūtir yāsāṃ yāvacca jīvitam //

Translation

I shall explain, in detail and in proper sequence, the established order of each Yuga—how matters stand in that age, what beings arise therein, and how far their lifespan extends.

Word by Word

विस्तरेण (vistareṇa)in detail

अनुपूर्व्या (anupūrvyā)in due order, sequentially

च (ca)and

स्थितिम् (sthitim)the state/condition, established order

वक्ष्ये (vakṣye)I will declare/explain

युगे युगे (yuge yuge)in each Yuga, age after age

तस्मिन् युगे (tasmin yuge)in that (particular) Yuga

च (ca)and

सम्भूतिः (sambhūtiḥ)arising, origin, manifestation

यासाम् (yāsām)of those (beings/groups)

यावत् (yāvat)as far as, up to

च (ca)and

जीवितम् (jīvitam)life, lifespan

Speaker

Lord Matsya (Vishnu) speaking to Vaivasvata Manu

Entities Mentioned

Yuga

FAQs

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

It frames a structured teaching about cyclical time: in each Yuga there is a distinct condition, a specific arising of beings, and a measurable lifespan—implying a recurring cosmic order rather than a single linear creation.

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

By emphasizing that each Yuga has its own “sthiti” (prevailing condition), it supports the Purāṇic idea that dharma and governance must be applied with awareness of the age—rules and social conduct are interpreted in light of the Yuga’s character.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

No direct Vāstu or temple rule appears in this verse; its practical takeaway is methodological—rituals and prescriptions in the Purāṇa are often organized by Yuga-wise suitability and expected human lifespan.