Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, 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
Après avoir entendu les paroles agréables et salutaires de la Terre, le roi les accepta. Puis il fit de Svāyambhuva Manu un veau et, de la Terre telle une vache, il tira toutes les herbes médicinales et les grains, les recueillant dans ses mains jointes.
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.