Srimad Bhagavatam — Tritiya Skandha, Shloka 46
Sāṅkhya: Categories of the Absolute Truth and the Unfolding of Creation
Tattva-vicāra
भावनं ब्रह्मण: स्थानं धारणं सद्विशेषणम् । सर्वसत्त्वगुणोद्भेद: पृथिवीवृत्तिलक्षणम् ॥ ४६ ॥
bhāvanaṁ brahmaṇaḥ sthānaṁ dhāraṇaṁ sad-viśeṣaṇam sarva-sattva-guṇodbhedaḥ pṛthivī-vṛtti-lakṣaṇam
زمین کے افعال کی نشانیاں یہ ہیں: پرم برہمن کی صورتوں کو ڈھالنا، رہائش گاہیں بنانا، گھڑے وغیرہ جیسے برتن تیار کرنا؛ یعنی زمین تمام عناصر اور تمام جانداروں کی صفات کے لیے سہارا اور پرورش کی جگہ ہے۔
Different elements, such as sound, sky, air, fire and water, can be perceived in the earth. Another feature of the earth especially mentioned here is that earth can manifest different forms of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. By this statement of Kapila’s it is confirmed that the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Brahman, has innumerable forms, which are described in the scriptures. By manipulation of earth and its products, such as stone, wood and jewels, these forms of the Supreme Lord can be present before our eyes. When a form of Lord Kṛṣṇa or Lord Viṣṇu is manifested by presentation of a statue made of earth, it is not imaginary. The earth gives shape to the Lord’s forms as described in the scriptures.
FAQs
This verse lists earth’s defining functions: it manifests forms, provides a basis/place for Brahmā’s creative work, sustains beings, serves as the mark of tangible reality (solidity), and displays the varied qualities seen among living entities.
Kapila teaches Devahuti Sāṅkhya so she can discern spirit from matter; by understanding the elements and their functions, one becomes detached from bodily identification and advances toward liberation and devotion.
See the body and possessions as supported by material nature and therefore temporary; cultivate steadiness and gratitude while redirecting attachment toward lasting spiritual practice—hearing, chanting, and serving the Lord.