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| type = Hindu
| type = Hindu
| image = Bhudevi in temple.jpg
| image = Bhudevi in temple.jpg
| caption = Idol (<i>[[murti]]</i>) of Bhumi at a temple in Tamil Nadu
| caption = An Idol (<i>[[murti]]</i>) of Bhumi at a temple in Tamil Nadu, India, Indian Subcontinent
| name = Bhumi
| name = Bhumi
| affiliation = [[Devi]], [[Prithvi]], [[Lakshmi]]
| affiliation = [[Vaishnavism]]<br>[[Lakshmi]]
| god_of = Goddess of the Earth<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/bhumi |title=Bhumi, Bhūmi, Bhūmī: 41 definitions |date=11 April 2009 |website=Wisdom Library |quote=Earth ({{lang|sa|भूमि}}, {{lang|sa-latn|bhūmi}}) is one of the five primary elements (pañcabhūta)}}</ref>
| god_of = Earth<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/bhumi |title=Bhumi, Bhūmi, Bhūmī: 41 definitions |date=11 April 2009 |website=Wisdom Library |quote=Earth ({{lang|sa|भूमि}}, {{lang|sa-latn|bhūmi}}) is one of the five primary elements (pañcabhūta)}}</ref>
| abode = [[Bhuloka]], [[Dyuloka]], [[Vaikuntha]]
| abode = [[Bhuloka]]
| mantra = Om Bhumaya Namaha
| other_names = <!--Only add significant names--> Bhudevi, [[Varahi]], Vasundhara, [[Prithvi]], [[Bharat Mata]], [[Vishvambhari]]
| other_names = Bhudevi, Vasundhara, Prithvi, Bhumata, Dharati, Varahi, Puhumi, Vasumati
| consort = [[Varaha]] ([[Vishnu]])
| consort = [[Varaha]] ([[Vishnu]])
| mount = [[Elephant]]
| children = [[Narakasura]], [[Mangala]], [[Sita]]
| children = [[Narakasura]], [[Mangala]], [[Sita]]
| member_of = [[Pancha Bhuta]]
| greek_equivalent = [[Gaia]]
| greek_equivalent = [[Gaia]]
| roman_equivalent = [[Terra (mythology)|Terra]]
| roman_equivalent = [[Terra (mythology)|Terra]]
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| Indo-european_equivalent = [[Dʰéǵʰōm]]
| Indo-european_equivalent = [[Dʰéǵʰōm]]
}}
}}
'''Bhumi''', also known as '''Prithvi''' and '''Vasundhara''', is a [[Devi|Hindu goddess]] who is the goddess of the earth and a form of the Hindu goddess [[Lakshmi]]. She is a consort of [[Varaha]], an avatara of the [[Deva (Hinduism)|Hindu god]] [[Vishnu]]. In [[Vaishnavism|Vaishnava]] traditions, she is the second aspect of Vishnu's consort, Lakshmi, along with the aspects of [[Lakshmi|Sridevi]] and [[Niladevi]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=Duffy |first1=Michelle |chapter=Social inclusion, social exclusion and encounter |date=2017-08-07 |title=Festival Encounters |pages=83–93 |publisher=[[Routledge]] |last2=Mair |first2=Judith |doi=10.4324/9781315644097-8 |isbn=9781315644097}}</ref> In [[Hindu mythology]], [[Varaha]], the third [[avatar|avatara]] of Vishnu killed the [[asura]] [[Hiranyaksha]] saved Bhumi and then raised Bhumi to her correct place in the universe and later married her, making her one of his consort. She is the mother of [[Narakasura]], [[Mangala]], and [[Sita]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Mani |first=Vettam |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=mvXsDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA142&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false |title=Puranic Encyclopedia: A Comprehensive Work with Special Reference to the Epic and Puranic Literature |date=2015-01-01 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |isbn=978-81-208-0597-2 |pages=142 |language=en}}</ref>
'''Bhumi''' (Sanskrit: भुमि, romanized: Bhūmi), also known as '''Bhudevi''', '''Dharani''', and '''Vasundhara''', is a significant [[Devi|goddess]] in [[Hinduism]], personifying the Earth. She is regarded to be a form of the Goddess [[Lakshmi]]. Her earliest form is reflected in the [[Vedic period|Vedic]] goddess [[Prithvi]], though their roles and depictions are drastically different.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Dalal |first=Roshen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zrk0AwAAQBAJ&q=bhumi+prithvi+vedic |title=Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide |date=2014-04-18 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-81-8475-277-9 |language=en}}</ref>


== Etymology ==
Bhumi features prominently in the ''[[Mahabharata]]'' and various [[Puranas]]. In [[Hindu mythology]], Bhumi's narrative is closely linked with the god [[Vishnu|Vishnu’s]] third avatar, [[Varaha]], who rescues her from the demon [[Hiranyaksha]]. After this rescue, Varaha marries Bhumi, and they have a son named [[Mangala]]. Bhumi also bears [[Narakasura]], an asura, due to Hiranyaksha's influence. In the epic ''[[Ramayana]]'', she is mentioned as the mother of [[Sita]], the epic's female protagonist.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Mani |first=Vettam |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mvXsDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA142 |title=Puranic Encyclopedia: A Comprehensive Work with Special Reference to the Epic and Puranic Literature |date=2015-01-01 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |isbn=978-81-208-0597-2 |pages=142 |language=en}}</ref>
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The name "Bhumi" is the Sanskrit word for "earth". The name "Puhumi" is the equivalent in Old Avadhi. She is known by various names such as Bhuvati, Bhuvani, Bhuvaneshvari, Avni, [[Prithvi]], Varahi, Dharti, Dharani, Vasudha, Vasundhara, Vaishnavi, Kashyapi, Urvi, Ira, Mahi, Ela, Vasumati, Dhanshika, Vasumati, Hema, Hiranmaya.


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== Iconography ==
Bhumi is described to be born as [[Satyabhama]], the consort of [[Krishna]], to assist in slaying Narakasura. The [[Alvar]] saint [[Andal]] is also considered an avatar of Bhudevi. In certain [[Vaishnavism|Vaishnava traditions]], Bhumi is regarded as Vishnu's secondary consort alongside [[Lakshmi]], with some sects, such as [[Sri Vaishnavism]], even viewing her as an aspect of Lakshmi.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Duffy |first1=Michelle |chapter=Social inclusion, social exclusion and encounter |date=2017-08-07 |title=Festival Encounters |pages=83–93 |publisher=[[Routledge]] |last2=Mair |first2=Judith |doi=10.4324/9781315644097-8 |isbn=9781315644097}}</ref>
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Bhumi is depicted as seated on a platform that rests on the back of four elephants, representing the four cardinal directions. She is portrayed with [[Chaturbhuja|four arms]], holding a [[pomegranate]], a water vessel, a bowl containing healing herbs, and another bowl containing vegetables, respectively.<ref>{{cite book|title=Elements of Hindu Iconography |first=T.A.G. |last=Rao |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |date=1997 |isbn=81-208-0876-2}}</ref> She is also depicted with two hands, the right hand holding a blue lotus known as Kumuda, the night lotus, while the left hand may indicate the pose of [[Abhayamudra]], the fearlessness [[mudra]].<ref>{{cite book|title=The Illustrated Dictionary of Hindu Iconography |first=Margaret |last=Stutley |page=82 |isbn=81-215-1087-2 |publisher=Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers |date=2003}}</ref><ref name="MitchellMuseum1982">{{cite book|first1=A. G. |last1=Mitchell |author2=Victoria and Albert Museum |author2-link=Victoria and Albert Museum |title=Hindu gods and goddesses |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=P57pAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA8 |year=1982 |publisher=[[Office of Public Sector Information|Her Majesty's Stationery Office]] |location=[[United Kingdom]]|page=8 |isbn=9780112903727}}</ref>


== Literature ==
Iconographically, Bhumi is depicted holding a blue lotus and is often shown alongside Vishnu and Lakshmi or with Varaha. She is especially revered in [[South India]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Dalal |first=Roshen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zrk0AwAAQBAJ&q=bhumi+prithvi+vedic |title=Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide |date=2014-04-18 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-81-8475-277-9 |language=en}}</ref>


== Etymology ==
=== Padma Purana ===
The episode of the [[Deva (Hinduism)|devas]] and [[Devi|devis]] seeking the assistance of Vishnu's Varaha avatara in rescuing Bhumi is described in the [[Padma Purana]]:
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The name "Bhūmi" is the Sanskrit word for "earth". The version "Puhumi" is the equivalent in Old Awadhi.{{cn|date=April 2024}} She is known by various names such as Bhuvati, Bhuvani, Bhuvaneshwari, Avni, [[Prithvi]], Dharti, Dhaatri, Dharani, Vasudha, Vasundhara, Vaishnavi, Kashyapi, Urvi, Ira, Mahi, Ela, Vasumati, Dhanshika, Vasumati, Hema, and Hiranmaya.


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{{Blockquote|text=They sought the shelter of Nārāyaṇa, Viṣṇu. Then knowing that wonder, he, Viṣṇu, the holder of a conch, a disc, and a mace, took up the Boar-form, existing everywhere and having no beginning, middle or end. The highest lord full of everything, having hands and feet on all sides, having large fangs and arms, struck the demon with one fang. The mean son of Diti, with his huge body pounded, died. Seeing the earth fallen (from the demon's head), he lifted it with his fang, and putting it on Śeṣa's head as before, took up the form of a Tortoise. Seeing great Viṣṇu of the form of the hog, all deities and sages, with their bodies bowed with devotion, praised him.<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2019-10-31 |title=The Boar Incarnation of Viṣṇu [Chapter 237] |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/book/the-padma-purana/d/doc365821.html |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref>|title=[[Padma Purana]]|source=Chapter 237}}
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== Iconography ==
⚫
Bhudevi is depicted as seated on a platform that rests on the back of four elephants, representing the four cardinal directions. She is usually portrayed with [[Chaturbhuja|four arms]], holding a [[pomegranate]], a water vessel, a bowl containing healing herbs, and another bowl containing vegetables, respectively.<ref>{{cite book|title=Elements of Hindu Iconography |first=T.A.G. |last=Rao |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |date=1997 |isbn=81-208-0876-2}}</ref> She is also sometimes depicted with two hands, the right hand holding a blue lotus known as Kumuda or Utpala, the night lotus, while the left hand may indicate the pose of [[Abhayamudra]], the fearlessness or the Lolahasta Mudra, which is an aesthetic pose meant to mimic the tail of a horse.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Illustrated Dictionary of Hindu Iconography |first=Margaret |last=Stutley |page=82 |isbn=81-215-1087-2 |publisher=Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers |date=2003}}</ref><ref name="MitchellMuseum1982">{{cite book|first1=A. G. |last1=Mitchell |author2=Victoria and Albert Museum |author2-link=Victoria and Albert Museum |title=Hindu gods and goddesses |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=P57pAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA8 |year=1982 |publisher=[[Office of Public Sector Information|Her Majesty's Stationery Office]] |location=[[United Kingdom]]|page=8 |isbn=9780112903727}}</ref>


== Mythology ==
=== Brahmanda Purana ===
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[[Prahlada]], the son of [[Hiranyakashipu]], was a devotee of Vishnu. The father did not like the son's devotion to Vishnu. He punished Prahlada in a number of ways. Once, he threw down Prahlada from the top of a high building. At that moment, Bhumi appeared there and received him in her arms and Vishnu as [[Narasimha]] disimboweled and killed Hiranyakashipu.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Parmeshwaranand |first=Swami |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=6F0ZIBIL2ZAC&pg=PA190&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false |title=Encyclopaedic Dictionary of Puranas |date=2001 |publisher=Sarup & Sons |isbn=978-81-7625-226-3 |pages=190 |language=en}}</ref>
=== Birth ===
Varying accounts of Bhumi's birth are narrated in Hindu scriptures. The southern recension of the epic ''[[Mahabharata]]'' mentions Bhumi as the daughter of the creator god [[Brahma]]. The ''[[Devi Bhagavata Purana]]'' states her to be born of out the remains of two [[rakshasa]]s, [[Madhu-Kaitabha|Madhu and Kaitabha]].<ref name = "Mani" >{{Cite book|last=Mani|first=Vettam|url=https://archive.org/stream/puranicencyclopa00maniuoft#page/0/mode/2up|title=Puranic Encyclopedia: A Comprehensive Work with Special Reference to the Epic and Puranic Literature|publisher=Motilal Banarsidass|year=1975|isbn=978-81-208-0597-2|location=|pages=|language=en}}</ref>
=== Rescue by Varaha ===
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[[File:Varaha,_the_Boar_Avatar_of_Vishnu_LACMA_M.87.160.2_(1_of_2).jpg|thumb|A sculpture of Bhumi seated on Varaha's lap.]]
Bhumi is the consort of the anthropomorphic [[Varaha]], an [[avatar]] of the preserver god [[Vishnu]]. According to the ''[[Puranas]]'', during the [[Satya Yuga]] (first eon), the demon [[Hiranyaksha]] kidnapped Bhumi and hid her in the primordial waters. Upon the request of the gods, Vishnu took the [[avatar]] (incarnation) of Varaha to rescue her. Varaha slew the demon and retrieved the Earth from the depths of the ocean, lifting it on his tusks. He restored Bhumi to her rightful place in the universe, and proceeded to marry her.<ref name = "Mani" />


== Consort and children ==
The episode of the [[Deva (Hinduism)|devas]] seeking the assistance of Vishnu's Varaha avatar in rescuing Bhumi is described in the [[Padma Purana]]:<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Shastri |first1=Jagdish Lal |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aOZjAAAAMAAJ |title=Ancient Indian Tradition & Mythology;: The Padma-purana, pt.9 |last2=Kunst |first2=Arnold |date=1991 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |isbn=978-81-208-0881-2 |pages=3197 |language=en}}</ref>
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{{Blockquote|text=They sought the shelter of Nārāyaṇa, Viṣṇu. Then knowing that wonder, he, Viṣṇu, the holder of a conch, a disc, and a mace, took up the Boar-form, existing everywhere and having no beginning, middle or end. The highest lord full of everything, having hands and feet on all sides, having large fangs and arms, struck the demon with one fang. The mean son of Diti, with his huge body pounded, died. Seeing the earth fallen (from the demon’s head), he lifted it with his fang, and putting it on Śeṣa’s head as before, took up the form of a Tortoise. Seeing great Viṣṇu of the form of the hog, all deities and sages, with their bodies bowed with devotion, praised him.|title=[[Padma Purana]]|source=Chapter 237}}
=== Children ===
{{Vaishnavism}}
{{Vaishnavism}}
[[File:Sita Bhum Pravesh.jpg|thumb|left|Sita returns to her mother, the Earth, (left) as [[Rama]], her sons, and the sages watch in astonishment, painting by [[Raja Ravi Varma]]]]
[[Narakasura]] was the first born of Bhumi. There are two stories about Narakasura's birth. In the first one, he was the first son of Bhumi and Varaha. He was born when Bhumi requested Varaha for a son. Narakasura later performed a penance to receive a boon that only his mother would be able to kill him. In the second one, Narakasura's father was Hiranyaksha and was born when Hiranyaksha's horns touched Bhumi.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dalal|first=Roshen|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DH0vmD8ghdMC&q=Narakasura&pg=PA274|title=Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide|date=2010|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-341421-6|language=en}}</ref> Narakasura is believed to have been the founder of the legendary [[Bhauma dynasty|Bhauma]] dynasty among the [[Boro people]].


Mangala, according to Vaishnava tradition, was the son of Varaha and Bhumi.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dalal |first=Roshen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DH0vmD8ghdMC&q=Bhumi&pg=PA274 |title=Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide |date=2010 |publisher=[[Penguin Books India]] |isbn=978-0-14-341421-6 |language=en}}</ref>
Bhudevi is the consort of the anthropomorphic [[Varaha]], an [[avatar]] of [[Vishnu]].<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.diwalifestival.org/killing-of-narakasura.html|title = Killing of Narakasura}}</ref> In the Satya Yuga, the demon [[Hiranyaksha]] kidnapped her and hid her in the primordial waters, and [[Vishnu]] appeared as Varaha to rescue her. Varaha slew the demon and retrieved the Earth from the depths of the ocean, lifting it on his tusks. He restored Bhudevi to her rightful place in the universe, and proceeded to marry her. Mangala, and according to Vaishnava tradition, Narakasura, were the sons of Varaha and Bhumi.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dalal |first=Roshen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DH0vmD8ghdMC&q=Bhumi&pg=PA274 |title=Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide |date=2010 |publisher=[[Penguin Books India]] |isbn=978-0-14-341421-6 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Bhoomi Devi – Our Sacred Goddess Mother Earth |url=http://www.anaadifoundation.org/blog/ecology/bhoomi-devi-sacred-mother-earth/ |access-date=2020-09-09 |website=Anaadi Foundation Blog |language=en-US}}</ref>


[[Sita]], the wife of [[Rama]], emerged from the earth, and subsequently adopted by the King of Mithila, [[Janaka]]. The tale goes that there was once a drought in [[Kingdom of the Videhas|Mithila]], the hometown of Sita. Janaka, the future father of Sita, was ploughing the ground. Under his plough, he found a baby girl (Sita). Rain showered upon the earth and Janaka and his wife decided to adopt the girl. As Sita was born from the earth, she was also known as Bhumija.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Raman |first=A. S. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PSyKsWHwkTgC&pg=PA20 |title=Tales From Indian Mythology |date=1961 |publisher=Popular Prakashan |isbn=978-81-7157-119-2 |pages=20 |language=en}}</ref>
[[Narakasura]] was the first born of Bhudevi. There are two stories about Narakasura's birth. In the first one, he was the first son of Bhumi and Varaha. He was born when Bhumi requested Varaha for a son. Narakasura later performed a penance to receive a boon that only his mother would be able to kill him. In the second one, Narakasura's father was Hiranyaksha and was born when Hiranyaksha's horns touched Bhumi.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dalal|first=Roshen|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DH0vmD8ghdMC&q=Narakasura&pg=PA274|title=Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide|date=2010|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-341421-6|language=en}}</ref> Narakasura is believed to have been the founder of the legendary [[Bhauma dynasty|Bhauma]] dynasty among the [[Boro people]].


[[Sita]], the wife of [[Rama]], emerged from the earth, and thus Bhumi is her spiritual mother. The tale goes that there was once a drought in [[Kingdom of the Videhas|Mithila]], the hometown of Sita. [[Janaka]], the future father of Sita, was ploughing the ground. Under his plough, he found a baby girl (Sita). Rain showered upon the earth and Janaka and his wife, Sunaina, decided to adopt the girl. As Sita was born from the earth, she was also known as Bhumija'''.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Story of Mother Sita the consort of Rama|url=http://www.salagram.net/parishad131.html|publisher=Salagram.net|access-date=18 March 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530135807/http://salagram.net/parishad131.html|archive-date=30 May 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>'''
=== Saving Prahlada ===
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[[Prahlada]], the son of [[Hiranyakashipu]], was a devotee of Vishnu. The father did not like the son’s devotion to Vishnu. He punished Prahlada in a number of ways. Once, he threw down Prahlada from the top of a high building. At that moment, Bhumi appeared there and received him in her arms.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Parmeshwaranand |first=Swami |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6F0ZIBIL2ZAC&pg=PA190 |title=Encyclopaedic Dictionary of Puranas |date=2001 |publisher=Sarup & Sons |isbn=978-81-7625-226-3 |pages=190 |language=en}}</ref>
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=== The milking of the earth ===
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{{Main|Prithu}}
[[File:Prithu - Crop.jpg|thumb|Prithu chasing the earth goddess Bhumi, who is in the form of a cow. From an illustrated manuscript of the Bhagavata Purana. Indian, Pahari, c 1740]]
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One of the most well-recounted legends of Bhumi is her episode with the emperor of the world, [[Prithu]]. When Prithu hears that his people are starving because the earth had withdrawn most of her vegetation, he furiously chases her in her form of a cow. She submits, allowing herself to be milked so that living beings could be nourished once more. Attributes such as the courage, valour, knowledge, and the bodily health of the [[Brahmin]] sages are stated to have been milked from the earth, and the virtues and the truths that characterise animals may be attributed to her as well:<ref>{{Cite book |last=Edits |first=The Divine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FPe6EAAAQBAJ&pg=PT9 |title=Brahmavaivarta Purana - A Concise Guide |date=2023-04-22 |publisher=by Mocktime Publication |pages=9 |language=en}}</ref>
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{{Blockquote|text=Pṛthu got angry on hearing this and taking his bow Ajagava and several arrows went in search of the goddess of earth. The goddess got frightened and fled taking the form of a cow. She went to all lokas but Pṛthu followed her with his bow and arrows everywhere. At last desiring to escape from the arrows of such a valiant king Bhūmidevī went to him and trembling with fear said "Oh king, why do you make such a persistent attempt, to kill me which would be the great sin of Strīvadha? (killing a woman)." The Rājā replied that there was no sin in killing wicked persons. The goddess asked what refuge was there for the people if the earth was destroyed. The king said that he would protect his people by the power of his yoga. Bhūmidevī was frightened and she said "Oh king, I shall give you back all I have destroyed in the form of milk. Therefore, virtuous as you are, if you are really interested in the welfare of the people I shall allow you to milk me and take back everything you want. Do bring a calf."}}


<gallery>
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===Satyabhama avatar===
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File:Varaha,_the_Boar_Avatar_of_Vishnu_LACMA_M.87.160.2_(1_of_2).jpg|Bhudevi seated on Varaha's lap.
File:Sita Bhum Pravesh.jpg|Sita entering the Earth with her mother Bhumi after a feud with her husband Rama.
</gallery>

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== The milking of the earth ==
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{{Main articles|Prithu}}
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One of the most well-recounted legends of Bhumi is her episode with the emperor of the world, [[Prithu]]. When Prithu hears that his people are starving because the earth had withdrawn most of her vegetation, he furiously chases her in her form of a cow. She submits, allowing herself to be milked so that living beings could be nourished once more. Attributes such as the courage, valour, knowledge, and the bodily health of the [[Brahmin]] sages are stated to have been milked from the earth, and the virtues and the truths that characterise animals may be attributed to her as well:

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{{Blockquote|text=Pṛthu got angry on hearing this and taking his bow Ajagava and several arrows went in search of the goddess of earth. The goddess got frightened and fled taking the form of a cow. She went to all lokas but Pṛthu followed her with his bow and arrows everywhere. At last desiring to escape from the arrows of such a valiant king Bhūmidevī went to him and trembling with fear said "Oh king, why do you make such a persistent attempt, to kill me which would be the great sin of Strīvadha? (killing a woman)." The Rājā replied that there was no sin in killing wicked persons. The goddess asked what refuge was there for the people if the earth was destroyed. The king said that he would protect his people by the power of his yoga. Bhūmidevī was frightened and she said "Oh king, I shall give you back all I have destroyed in the form of milk. Therefore, virtuous as you are, if you are really interested in the welfare of the people I shall allow you to milk me and take back everything you want. Do bring a calf."<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2019-01-28 |title=Story of Pṛthu |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/compilation/puranic-encyclopaedia/d/doc241849.html |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref>}}

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==Satyabhama avatar==
{{Main|Satyabhama}}
{{Main|Satyabhama}}
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The scriptures narrate how Bhumi took the incarnation as a human to slay her son, Narakasura. According to the legend, after receiving his desired boon, Narakasura grew arrogant and drunk with his power. He started capturing women and forcefully made them his wives. He captured nearly 16,000 women. He wrested control of heaven from [[Indra]] and no deity was able to defeat him because of his boon. Narakasura even took the earrings of Indra's mother, [[Aditi]], and gave them to his mother, Bhumi. Bhumi was requested by the devas to slay her son. She manifested herself upon the earth as Satyabhama, the daughter of [[Satrajit]]. Satyabhama married [[Krishna]], and the couple waged war on Narakasura. She finally beheaded the latter with her husband's [[Sudarshana Chakra]], thus fulfilling the prophecy that the asura could only be killed by his mother.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Vemsani |first=Lavanya |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gBXHEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA191 |title=Krishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names |date=2016-06-13 |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing USA |isbn=978-1-61069-211-3 |pages=191 |language=en}}</ref>


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After receiving his desired boon, Narakasura grew arrogant and drunk with his power. He started capturing women and forcefully made them his wives. He captured nearly 16,000 women. He wrested control of heaven from [[Indra]] and no deity was able to defeat him because of his boon. Narakasura even took the earrings of Indra's mother, [[Aditi]], and gave them to his mother, Bhumi. Bhudevi was requested by the devas to slay her son. She manifested herself upon the earth as Satyabhama, the daughter of [[Satrajit]]. Satyabhama married [[Krishna]], and the couple waged war on Narakasura. She finally beheaded the latter with her husband's [[Sudarshana Chakra]], thus fulfilling the prophecy that the asura could only be killed by his mother.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Happy Diwali: The Legends Linked To Deepavali Festival|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/happy-diwali-deepavali-kali-puja-naraka-chaturdashi-ramayana-legends-linked-to-diwali-2120984|access-date=2020-06-09|website=NDTV.com}}</ref>
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==Festival==

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==Raja Festival==


The [[Raja (festival)|Raja festival]] in [[Odisha]], [[East India|Eastern India]], is a three-day celebration dedicated to Bhudevi, also known as Bhoomi Devi. This [[festival]] honors the essence of womanhood and [[agriculture]] in life. During Raja, Bhudevi is revered as a symbol of motherhood, [[femininity]], and fertility. The festival marks the beginning of the [[monsoon]] and the arrival of new [[crop]]s, as it is believed that Bhudevi is resting and preparing to bless humanity with a prosperous harvest. Raja is predominantly celebrated by women and young girls. They indulge in self-care, donning new clothes and beautiful ornaments. Applying red dye (alta) to their feet and adorning their hair with flowers are essential rituals. They are treated to their favorite food and a special Odia delicacy called [[Cuisine of Odisha|Poda Pitha]], a baked rice cake prepared exclusively for this occasion. Elaborate flower-laced [[Swing (seat)|swings]] are set up for the women and girls, who are considered embodiments of goddesses, particularly Bhudevi. They are not allowed to touch the ground during the festival. To respect Bhudevi's deep slumber, people refrain from digging the earth or engaging in agricultural work during this time. The festival embodies the interdependence and respect for agriculture, women, and the environment in Odisha and beyond.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bhudevi: Significance and Her Ancient Representation |url=https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/bhudevi-symbol-of-wealth/ |access-date=2023-07-15 |website=www.exoticindiaart.com |language=en}}</ref>
The [[Raja (festival)|Raja festival]] in [[Odisha]], [[East India|Eastern India]], is a three-day celebration dedicated to Bhudevi, also known as Bhoomi Devi. This [[festival]] honors the essence of womanhood and [[agriculture]] in life. During Raja, Bhudevi is revered as a symbol of motherhood, [[femininity]], and fertility. The festival marks the beginning of the [[monsoon]] and the arrival of new [[crop]]s, as it is believed that Bhudevi is resting and preparing to bless humanity with a prosperous harvest. Raja is predominantly celebrated by women and young girls. They indulge in self-care, donning new clothes and beautiful ornaments. Applying red dye (alta) to their feet and adorning their hair with flowers are essential rituals. They are treated to their favorite food and a special Odia delicacy called [[Cuisine of Odisha|Poda Pitha]], a baked rice cake prepared exclusively for this occasion. Elaborate flower-laced [[Swing (seat)|swings]] are set up for the women and girls, who are considered embodiments of goddesses, particularly Bhudevi. They are not allowed to touch the ground during the festival. To respect Bhudevi's deep slumber, people refrain from digging the earth or engaging in agricultural work during this time. The festival embodies the interdependence and respect for agriculture, women, and the environment in Odisha and beyond.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bhudevi: Significance and Her Ancient Representation |url=https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/bhudevi-symbol-of-wealth/ |access-date=2023-07-15 |website=www.exoticindiaart.com |language=en}}</ref>

Revision as of 11:29, 20 December 2024

Bhumi
Earth[1]
Member of Pancha Bhuta
An Idol (murti) of Bhumi at a temple in Tamil Nadu, India, Indian Subcontinent
Other namesBhudevi, Vasundhara, Prithvi, Bhumata, Dharati, Varahi, Puhumi, Vasumati
AffiliationVaishnavism
Lakshmi
AbodeBhuloka
MantraOm Bhumaya Namaha
MountElephant
Genealogy
ConsortVaraha (Vishnu)
ChildrenNarakasura, Mangala, Sita
Equivalents
GreekGaia
Indo-EuropeanDʰéǵʰōm
RomanTerra
ChineseHoutu[2]

Bhumi, also known as Prithvi and Vasundhara, is a Hindu goddess who is the goddess of the earth and a form of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. She is a consort of Varaha, an avatara of the Hindu god Vishnu. In Vaishnava traditions, she is the second aspect of Vishnu's consort, Lakshmi, along with the aspects of Sridevi and Niladevi.[3] In Hindu mythology, Varaha, the third avatara of Vishnu killed the asura Hiranyaksha saved Bhumi and then raised Bhumi to her correct place in the universe and later married her, making her one of his consort. She is the mother of Narakasura, Mangala, and Sita.[4]

Etymology

The name "Bhumi" is the Sanskrit word for "earth". The name "Puhumi" is the equivalent in Old Avadhi. She is known by various names such as Bhuvati, Bhuvani, Bhuvaneshvari, Avni, Prithvi, Varahi, Dharti, Dharani, Vasudha, Vasundhara, Vaishnavi, Kashyapi, Urvi, Ira, Mahi, Ela, Vasumati, Dhanshika, Vasumati, Hema, Hiranmaya.

Iconography

Bhumi is depicted as seated on a platform that rests on the back of four elephants, representing the four cardinal directions. She is portrayed with four arms, holding a pomegranate, a water vessel, a bowl containing healing herbs, and another bowl containing vegetables, respectively.[5] She is also depicted with two hands, the right hand holding a blue lotus known as Kumuda, the night lotus, while the left hand may indicate the pose of Abhayamudra, the fearlessness mudra.[6][7]

Literature

Padma Purana

The episode of the devas and devis seeking the assistance of Vishnu's Varaha avatara in rescuing Bhumi is described in the Padma Purana:

They sought the shelter of Nārāyaṇa, Viṣṇu. Then knowing that wonder, he, Viṣṇu, the holder of a conch, a disc, and a mace, took up the Boar-form, existing everywhere and having no beginning, middle or end. The highest lord full of everything, having hands and feet on all sides, having large fangs and arms, struck the demon with one fang. The mean son of Diti, with his huge body pounded, died. Seeing the earth fallen (from the demon's head), he lifted it with his fang, and putting it on Śeṣa's head as before, took up the form of a Tortoise. Seeing great Viṣṇu of the form of the hog, all deities and sages, with their bodies bowed with devotion, praised him.[8]

— Padma Purana, Chapter 237

Brahmanda Purana

Prahlada, the son of Hiranyakashipu, was a devotee of Vishnu. The father did not like the son's devotion to Vishnu. He punished Prahlada in a number of ways. Once, he threw down Prahlada from the top of a high building. At that moment, Bhumi appeared there and received him in her arms and Vishnu as Narasimha disimboweled and killed Hiranyakashipu.[9]

Consort and children

Part of a series on
Vaishnavism
Closeup of Vishnu, seated in the lotus position on a lotus. From depiction of the poet Jayadeva bowing to Vishnu, Gouache on paper Pahari, The very picture of devotion, bare-bodied, head bowed, legs crossed and hands folded, Jayadeva stands at left, with the implements of worship placed before the lotus-seat of Vishnu who sits there, blessing the poet.
Supreme deity
Vishnu / Krishna / Rama
Important deities
Dashavatara
Other forms
Consorts
Related
Holy scriptures
Puranas
Sampradayas
Others
Teachers—acharyas
Related traditions

Bhudevi is the consort of the anthropomorphic Varaha, an avatar of Vishnu.[10] In the Satya Yuga, the demon Hiranyaksha kidnapped her and hid her in the primordial waters, and Vishnu appeared as Varaha to rescue her. Varaha slew the demon and retrieved the Earth from the depths of the ocean, lifting it on his tusks. He restored Bhudevi to her rightful place in the universe, and proceeded to marry her. Mangala, and according to Vaishnava tradition, Narakasura, were the sons of Varaha and Bhumi.[11][12]

Narakasura was the first born of Bhudevi. There are two stories about Narakasura's birth. In the first one, he was the first son of Bhumi and Varaha. He was born when Bhumi requested Varaha for a son. Narakasura later performed a penance to receive a boon that only his mother would be able to kill him. In the second one, Narakasura's father was Hiranyaksha and was born when Hiranyaksha's horns touched Bhumi.[13] Narakasura is believed to have been the founder of the legendary Bhauma dynasty among the Boro people.

Sita, the wife of Rama, emerged from the earth, and thus Bhumi is her spiritual mother. The tale goes that there was once a drought in Mithila, the hometown of Sita. Janaka, the future father of Sita, was ploughing the ground. Under his plough, he found a baby girl (Sita). Rain showered upon the earth and Janaka and his wife, Sunaina, decided to adopt the girl. As Sita was born from the earth, she was also known as Bhumija.[14]

  • Bhudevi seated on Varaha's lap.
    Bhudevi seated on Varaha's lap.
  • Sita entering the Earth with her mother Bhumi after a feud with her husband Rama.
    Sita entering the Earth with her mother Bhumi after a feud with her husband Rama.

The milking of the earth

Main article: Prithu

One of the most well-recounted legends of Bhumi is her episode with the emperor of the world, Prithu. When Prithu hears that his people are starving because the earth had withdrawn most of her vegetation, he furiously chases her in her form of a cow. She submits, allowing herself to be milked so that living beings could be nourished once more. Attributes such as the courage, valour, knowledge, and the bodily health of the Brahmin sages are stated to have been milked from the earth, and the virtues and the truths that characterise animals may be attributed to her as well:

Pṛthu got angry on hearing this and taking his bow Ajagava and several arrows went in search of the goddess of earth. The goddess got frightened and fled taking the form of a cow. She went to all lokas but Pṛthu followed her with his bow and arrows everywhere. At last desiring to escape from the arrows of such a valiant king Bhūmidevī went to him and trembling with fear said "Oh king, why do you make such a persistent attempt, to kill me which would be the great sin of Strīvadha? (killing a woman)." The Rājā replied that there was no sin in killing wicked persons. The goddess asked what refuge was there for the people if the earth was destroyed. The king said that he would protect his people by the power of his yoga. Bhūmidevī was frightened and she said "Oh king, I shall give you back all I have destroyed in the form of milk. Therefore, virtuous as you are, if you are really interested in the welfare of the people I shall allow you to milk me and take back everything you want. Do bring a calf."[15]

Satyabhama avatar

Main article: Satyabhama

After receiving his desired boon, Narakasura grew arrogant and drunk with his power. He started capturing women and forcefully made them his wives. He captured nearly 16,000 women. He wrested control of heaven from Indra and no deity was able to defeat him because of his boon. Narakasura even took the earrings of Indra's mother, Aditi, and gave them to his mother, Bhumi. Bhudevi was requested by the devas to slay her son. She manifested herself upon the earth as Satyabhama, the daughter of Satrajit. Satyabhama married Krishna, and the couple waged war on Narakasura. She finally beheaded the latter with her husband's Sudarshana Chakra, thus fulfilling the prophecy that the asura could only be killed by his mother.[16]

Raja Festival

The Raja festival in Odisha, Eastern India, is a three-day celebration dedicated to Bhudevi, also known as Bhoomi Devi. This festival honors the essence of womanhood and agriculture in life. During Raja, Bhudevi is revered as a symbol of motherhood, femininity, and fertility. The festival marks the beginning of the monsoon and the arrival of new crops, as it is believed that Bhudevi is resting and preparing to bless humanity with a prosperous harvest. Raja is predominantly celebrated by women and young girls. They indulge in self-care, donning new clothes and beautiful ornaments. Applying red dye (alta) to their feet and adorning their hair with flowers are essential rituals. They are treated to their favorite food and a special Odia delicacy called Poda Pitha, a baked rice cake prepared exclusively for this occasion. Elaborate flower-laced swings are set up for the women and girls, who are considered embodiments of goddesses, particularly Bhudevi. They are not allowed to touch the ground during the festival. To respect Bhudevi's deep slumber, people refrain from digging the earth or engaging in agricultural work during this time. The festival embodies the interdependence and respect for agriculture, women, and the environment in Odisha and beyond.[17]

References

  1. ^ "Bhumi, Bhūmi, Bhūmī: 41 definitions". Wisdom Library. 11 April 2009. Earth (भूमि, bhūmi) is one of the five primary elements (pañcabhūta)
  2. ^ Shaw, Miranda Eberle (2006). Buddhist Goddesses of India. Princeton University Press. p. 237. ISBN 978-0-691-12758-3.
  3. ^ Duffy, Michelle; Mair, Judith (2017-08-07). "Social inclusion, social exclusion and encounter". Festival Encounters. Routledge. pp. 83–93. doi:10.4324/9781315644097-8. ISBN 9781315644097.
  4. ^ Mani, Vettam (2015-01-01). Puranic Encyclopedia: A Comprehensive Work with Special Reference to the Epic and Puranic Literature. Motilal Banarsidass. p. 142. ISBN 978-81-208-0597-2.
  5. ^ Rao, T.A.G. (1997). Elements of Hindu Iconography. Motilal Banarsidass. ISBN 81-208-0876-2.
  6. ^ Stutley, Margaret (2003). The Illustrated Dictionary of Hindu Iconography. Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers. p. 82. ISBN 81-215-1087-2.
  7. ^ Mitchell, A. G.; Victoria and Albert Museum (1982). Hindu gods and goddesses. United Kingdom: Her Majesty's Stationery Office. p. 8. ISBN 9780112903727.
  8. ^ www.wisdomlib.org (2019-10-31). "The Boar Incarnation of Viṣṇu [Chapter 237]". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 2022-08-11.
  9. ^ Parmeshwaranand, Swami (2001). Encyclopaedic Dictionary of Puranas. Sarup & Sons. p. 190. ISBN 978-81-7625-226-3.
  10. ^ "Killing of Narakasura".
  11. ^ Dalal, Roshen (2010). Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide. Penguin Books India. ISBN 978-0-14-341421-6.
  12. ^ "Bhoomi Devi – Our Sacred Goddess Mother Earth". Anaadi Foundation Blog. Retrieved 2020-09-09.
  13. ^ Dalal, Roshen (2010). Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide. Penguin Books India. ISBN 978-0-14-341421-6.
  14. ^ "The Story of Mother Sita the consort of Rama". Salagram.net. Archived from the original on 30 May 2012. Retrieved 18 March 2012.
  15. ^ www.wisdomlib.org (2019-01-28). "Story of Pṛthu". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 2022-08-11.
  16. ^ "Happy Diwali: The Legends Linked To Deepavali Festival". NDTV.com. Retrieved 2020-06-09.
  17. ^ "Bhudevi: Significance and Her Ancient Representation". www.exoticindiaart.com. Retrieved 2023-07-15.
  • Media related to Bhūmi at Wikimedia Commons
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