Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 9
Indra’s Envy at Pṛthu’s Aśvamedha and Brahmā’s Intervention
False Renunciation Exposed
सिन्धवो रत्ननिकरान् गिरयोऽन्नं चतुर्विधम् । उपायनमुपाजह्रु: सर्वे लोका: सपालका: ॥ ९ ॥
sindhavo ratna-nikarān girayo ’nnaṁ catur-vidham upāyanam upājahruḥ sarve lokāḥ sa-pālakāḥ
海は宝石と真珠の山を捧げ、山々は四種の食物と鉱物・肥沃の資を産し、あらゆる世界の民はその守護神とともにプリトゥ王へ献上品を携えて来た。
As stated in Īśopaniṣad, this material creation is supplied with all the potencies for the production of all necessities required by the living entities — not only human beings, but animals, reptiles, aquatics and trees. The oceans and seas produce pearls, coral and valuable jewels so that fortunate law-abiding people can utilize them. Similarly, the hills are full of chemicals so that when rivers flow down from them the chemicals spread over the fields to fertilize the four kinds of foodstuffs. These are technically known as carvya (those edibles which are chewed), lehya (those which are licked up), cūṣya (those which are swallowed) and peya (those which are drunk).
FAQs
This verse shows that when leadership aligns with dharma, even nature and the cosmic administrators support society—symbolized by oceans and mountains offering jewels and grains.
Because Pṛthu Mahārāja’s rule was exemplary and dharmic; the world’s presiding powers acknowledged his rightful sovereignty by bringing upāyana (tribute).
Uphold integrity and duty in one’s role—when actions are principled and service-oriented, resources, cooperation, and support naturally increase.