Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 41
Raivata and Cākṣuṣa Manvantaras; Brahmā’s Prayers at Śvetadvīpa
Prelude to Samudra-manthana
विप्रो मुखाद् ब्रह्म च यस्य गुह्यं राजन्य आसीद् भुजयोर्बलं च । ऊर्वोर्विडोजोऽङ्घ्रिरवेदशूद्रौ प्रसीदतां न: स महाविभूति: ॥ ४१ ॥
vipro mukhād brahma ca yasya guhyaṁ rājanya āsīd bhujayor balaṁ ca ūrvor viḍ ojo ’ṅghrir aveda-śūdrau prasīdatāṁ naḥ sa mahā-vibhūtiḥ
至上人格神の御口よりブラーフマナとヴェーダの智が現れ、御腕よりクシャトリヤと身体の力が現れ、御腿よりヴァイシャと生産・富に通じる巧みが現れ、御足よりヴェーダの知に属さぬシュードラが生じた。武威に満つるその主が、われらに歓喜されますように。
FAQs
This verse states that the brāhmaṇas arise from the Lord’s mouth, kṣatriyas from His arms, vaiśyas from His thighs, and śūdras from His feet—showing society’s orders originate from the Supreme Lord and are meant to function in harmony for His pleasure.
Facing crisis and seeking protection and guidance, the devas offer prayers glorifying Vishnu as the supreme source of cosmic order, knowledge, and power, asking Him to be pleased and to intervene.
See work, learning, leadership, commerce, and service as sacred duties meant to support spiritual life, and cultivate humility by recognizing all abilities and roles as coming from the Supreme.