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
பூமியின் இனிய நலவாக்கை கேட்ட அரசன் அதை ஏற்றான். பின்னர் ஸ்வாயம்புவ மனுவை கன்றாக மாற்றி, பூமி-பசுவிடமிருந்து தன் குவிந்த கரங்களில் எல்லா மூலிகைகளையும் தானியங்களையும் கறந்தான்.
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.