Let me tell you the ancient account of the cosmic egg and the worlds within it, as revealed in the sacred verses. First, the measure of the shell of the cosmic egg is described, marking the boundary of creation. Within this vast egg, the realms of Bhūrloka, Bhuvarloka, and the third, Svarga, exist, each established in its own right. Altogether, there are seven worlds, arranged in the form of an umbrella, sheltering all beings beneath their expanse. Surrounding these worlds, there are layers of elements, each exceeding the previous by one-tenth in proportion, encasing the worlds in a protective embrace. Beyond all these, the cosmic egg is enveloped by a dense ocean, which forms a formidable barrier around creation. Further still, outside this ocean, the egg is supported by concentrated radiance, a brilliance that upholds the entirety. It stands firmly, sustained by the esteemed wind of wealth, a force that secures and nourishes all. Everything within is enveloped by the primordial elements, and these primordial elements themselves are embraced by the great, the vastness beyond comprehension. Now, let me declare, in order, the ancient guardians of the worlds. On the eastern side of Meru, and likewise on the summit of Manasa, guardians are established. Again, on the southern side of Meru, and on the summit of Manasa, and once more on the western side, these guardians reside. Among them, Varuna, lord of aquatic beings, dwells in the city called Sukha. This city is equal to the city of Mahendra; and for Soma, the moon, there is the city called Vibhāvarī. These cities and their lords are established for the purpose of maintaining righteousness and protecting the worlds. Now, listen to the movement of the sun as it journeys through the divisions of creation. Taking the wheel of the luminaries, the sun continually revolves, marking time and order. In the realm of Vaivasvata, restraint is observed, and there the sunrise is seen. For pleasure, in the region of Varuna, the sun is observed rising. When afternoon is established in the southeastern regions, for those who dwell in the far northern lands, it is night. In the same way, in the northern worlds, who shines forth? At dawn, in Somapura, the radiant sun rises. In Somapura, at dawn, the sun becomes midday. At midnight, in the realm of restraint or in Varuna’s region, the sun sets. Thus, moving and revolving, the sun traverses the constellations, returning again and again at sunrise and sunset in its course. At midday, the sun burns with its rays of light, shining fiercely. After this, as the cows diminish—symbolizing the waning of light—it proceeds to its setting. As long as it burns in the east, so too it burns behind and at the sides, its light reaching far. Where it disappears from sight, that is called its setting. Because of the remoteness of darkness and the covering of the earth’s line, the sight of planets, stars, the moon, and the sun occurs. Fire has a bright shade, while the earth has a dark shade. The sun’s red appearance is due to the absence of moisture, its inherent redness, and its lack of warmth at certain times. The sun is seen at a height of one hundred thousand yojanas above the earth. Fire enters the mountain, and from a distance it shines forth. The sun, united with fire, heats the day because of this union. By their mutual interpenetration, they blaze both day and night, illuminating the world. Thus, when the sun rises, night withdraws and enters the waters, marking the eternal dance of light and darkness in the cosmic order.