In a note Professor Wilson adds, [**] the commentator observes that "by the 'calf,' or Manu in that character, is typified the promoter of the multiplication of progeny;" Manu, as will be seen in the account of the Creation, being regarded by some of the Puranas as the first parent of mankind. This legend, with considerable variation, is found in most of the Puranas; Soma, Indra, Yama, and others taking the place of Manu as the calf, whilst Prithu's place as the milker is taken by the Rishis, Mitra, etc. In the same note Professor Wilson says, "These are all probably subsequent modifications of the original simple allegory, which typified the earth as a cow, who yielded to every class of beings the milk that they desired, or the object of their wishes."

It should be noticed that, later in the "Vishnu Purana," Prithivi is said to have sprung from the foot of Vishnu.

Footnotes

^13:* Muir, O. S. T., v. 23.

^14:* Muir, O. S. T., v. 18.

^14:+ Page 103.

^16:* "Vishnu Purana," p. 104.