After the great dissolution called Mahapralaya, the creation began again. At first, it was all primordial water. This was the state of Ekarnava (single ocean). From that, the cosmic egg emerged comprising the pancha bhutas. Over time, the influence of fire increased within it. The egg became golden and was named Hiranyagarbha (Brahma). This extremely subtle egg started rotating. Then, Brahma, through the power of meditation and the help of wind, separated the lower part of this egg (himself). That became the earth.

1. Initial State of Earth – In the beginning, the earth was completely wet and soft. It was not solid. When powerful winds blew, the loose parts of the earth were carried along, moving like ocean waves.
2. Formation of Solid Earth – Over time, the moist soil transformed into sand. After sand, gravel or small stones formed. These stones made the surface of the earth more solid. At this stage, the land resembled curd. Just as a thick layer of cream forms on loose curd, a solid crust started forming over the loose earth. Small stones turned into rocks, and rocks formed mounds and mountains. Initially, mountains moved around on the soft earth. Gradually, as the cold increased, the earth stabilized, and mountains became stationary. The land became firmer.
   
   
3. Sun, Moon, and Planets – The upper part of the great cosmic egg (Hiranyagarbha) became a large sun. Planets and stars emerged from it. The initial form of the moon was created, but all these celestial bodies were still close together. Gradually, the earth and the sun drifted apart, creating space in between. With the help of fire and air, these distances became stable.
   
   
4. Orbital Motion – The earth, moon, sun, and other planets initially revolved in their respective orbits. Whenever a new planet was born, changes occurred in their movements. Eventually, their motions settled into the patterns we see today. Initially, there was only night. Then, day and night emerged.
   
   
5. Birth of Vegetation – A significant time came when a great cloud formed. This cloud is referred to as Vritra (asura) in scriptures. It expanded, stretching beyond the earthly realm to the heavenly domain. This was both a fearful and astonishing event. The essence of the heavens, called Soma, descended to the earth through this cloud. This Soma also reached the moon. The earth became fertile. The moon became cool and radiated moonlight. Due to the effects of the sun, fire, and air, this great cloud broke apart causing rain.This incident is depicted as slaying of Vritra by Indra (release of water held up in the clouds). Many fragments of this cloud still exist in the cosmos and are known as nebulae. 'Nebula' is a Latin word that means 'cloud.'

The union of the earth and Soma led to the creation of the first seeds. Vegetation began to grow, turning much of the earth green. Rivers also started forming on the earth, and forests began to grow. Rivers carved new paths through mountains, shaping the land further.

Knowledge Bank

What is the pravara of Agastya gotra?

Agastya-Tardhachyuta-Saumavaha

Role of wealth in Sanatana Dharma

In Sanatana Dharma, wealth (artha) is recognized as one of the four purusharthas or aims of life, alongside kama (desire), dharma (righteous duty), and moksha (liberation). Artha represents material prosperity, power, and worldly success, which are essential for fulfilling temporal goals and achieving a stable and contented life. Hindu philosophy regards the pursuit of wealth and power as a legitimate human aspiration, provided it is guided by dharma. When aligned with righteousness, the quest for wealth becomes a constructive force, enabling an individual to support themselves, their family, and their community. It ensures that material needs are met, creating a foundation for higher pursuits like spiritual growth. However, when the pursuit of wealth is unrestrained by ethical principles, it can transform into greed and lead to personal and societal harm. Thus, in Sanatana Dharma, wealth is seen as a means to an integrated life, rather than an end in itself, emphasizing balance and responsibility.