Souti said: -
1. O ascetic Rishi, about this time the two sisters one day saw Uchaisrava approaching towards them.
2. (It was horse) who was worshipped by the celestials, who was the gem among ail horses, who rose at the churning of the ocean for the Ambrosia.
3. Who was divine, graceful, ever-young r irresistible, vigorous, who was creator’s masterpiece, and who was blessed with all the auspicious marks.
4. Why and where did the celestials chum the ocean for the Ambrosia, in which did rise, as you say, this best of steeds, so powerful and resplendent. Tell me this.
Souti said: -
5. There is a very great mountain, called Meru of blazing and effulgent appearance. The rays of the sun are scattered away when they fall on its golden summit.
6. Decked with gold, and exceedingly beautiful, this mountain is frequented oy the Devas and Gandharvas; it is immeasurable and unapproachable by men of many sins.
7. It is ilium mated with many medicinal plants; and fearful beasts of prey roam on its heights.
8. It b unapproachable even by mind; it is graced with many trees and streamlets, and resounds with the sweet melody of innumerable birds.
9. It stands high for infinite ages. Once did the celestials sit on its golden summit and held a conclave.
10. They, who had practised penances and observed vows, tame in quest of the Ambrosia. They consulted together about the possession of the Ambrosia and seeing them in this mood Narayana addressed Brahma saying;
12-13. Churn the ocean with both the Devas and the Asuras. By doing so, the Ambrosia and all drugs and gems will be obtained. O celestials churn the ocean you will then get the Ambrosia.
Thus ends the seventeenth chapter, Astika, in the Adi Parva.