yudhi·shthira said:

207.1

W

ise grandfather, I would like to hear the truth about Vishnu, the lotus-eyed, unshakable one, the uncreated creator who is the origin and dissolution of all beings. That unconquered one is also known as Narayana, Hrishi·kesha, Govinda, and Keshava, splendid Bharata.

bhishma said:

I heard about this matter when Rama, the son of Jamad·agni, was talking about it; I also heard about it from the celestial seer Narada, and Krishna Dvaipayana. Asita Devala, the great ascetic Valmiki and Markandeya also narrate the great wonder of Govinda, my son.*

207.5

Keshava, splendid Bharata, is the blessed Lord and master, the cosmic person known as “the whole.” He is powerful in manifold ways.

Now learn about the exploits of great bow-wielding deity in this world, mighty-armed Yudhi·shthira, about which the brahmins are well-versed. I will proclaim the worldly acts of Govinda, Lord of men, that have been passed down by those who know the legends.

The world self*—the cosmic, supreme spirit—created the five elements of wind, fire, water, space and earth in succession. Once he had created the earth, the lord and master of all creatures—that cosmic, supreme spirit—fashioned an abode for himself in the waters.

207.10

The supreme spirit consists of nothing but radiance. As he reclined there, in his abode, by means of his mind he emanated Bala·deva,* the first born of all livings beings and their refuge, so we have heard. Bala·deva supports all crea-