Srimad Bhagavatam — Panchama Skandha, Shloka 40
Priyavrata Accepts Kingship by Brahmā’s Instruction; Sapta-dvīpa Formation and Renunciation
भूसंस्थानं कृतं येन सरिद्गिरिवनादिभि: । सीमा च भूतनिर्वृत्यै द्वीपे द्वीपे विभागश: ॥ ४० ॥
bhū-saṁsthānaṁ kṛtaṁ yena sarid-giri-vanādibhiḥ sīmā ca bhūta-nirvṛtyai dvīpe dvīpe vibhāgaśaḥ
พระองค์ผู้ทรงจัดระเบียบผืนพิภพด้วยแม่น้ำ ภูเขา และป่าไม้ทั้งหลาย และเพื่อความสงบสุขของสรรพชีวิต ทรงแบ่งเกาะเป็นส่วนๆ พร้อมกำหนดเขตแดนไว้ในแต่ละเกาะ
The example set by Mahārāja Priyavrata in marking off different states is still followed. As indicated here, different classes of men are destined to live in different areas, and therefore the boundaries of various tracts of land, which are described here as islands, should be defined by different rivers, forests and hills. This is also mentioned in relation to Mahārāja Pṛthu, who was born from the dead body of his father by the manipulation of great sages. Mahārāja Pṛthu’s father was very sinful, and therefore a black man called Niṣāda was first born from his dead body. The Naiṣāda race was given a place in the forest because by nature they are thieves and rogues. As animals are given places in various forests and hills, men who are like animals are also destined to live there. One cannot be promoted to civilized life unless one comes to Kṛṣṇa consciousness, for by nature one is destined to live in a particular situation according to one’s karma and association with the modes of nature. If men want to live in harmony and peace, they must take to Kṛṣṇa consciousness, for they cannot achieve the highest standard while absorbed in the bodily concept of life. Mahārāja Priyavrata divided the surface of the globe into different islands so that each class of men would live peacefully and not clash with the others. The modern idea of nationhood has gradually developed from the divisions made by Mahārāja Priyavrata.
FAQs
This verse says the earth’s regions were organized with natural markers like rivers and mountains, and each dvīpa was given distinct boundaries for the peace and welfare of living beings.
Because he is narrating Mahārāja Priyavrata’s administrative and dharmic service—how he structured the world for orderly life and the well-being of all creatures.
Good leadership and stewardship create clear structures and protections that support the welfare of all—humans, animals, and nature—rather than serving selfish interests.