Editing Prithvi (section)

==In Post-Vedic scriptures==
{{main|Bhumi (goddess)}}
[[File:Vishnu and Lakshmi on Shesha in the milky ocean.jpg|thumb|An illustration from the ''[[Bhagavata Purana]]'' depicting the Earth goddess in the form of a cow, along with other gods, appealing to [[Vishnu]] (seated on a serpent with his consort, [[Lakshmi]]) to alleviate her distress by destroying the evil on Earth.]]
In post-Vedic Hindu mythology, the earth goddess Prithvi retains a significant presence, though her role undergoes transformation. In the Vedic period, Prithvi was revered as both the literal earth and a divine being embodying stability, fertility, and the nourishing foundation of all life. As Hindu traditions evolved, Prithvi came to be more commonly known as [[Bhumi (goddess)|Bhumi]] or Bhudevi, meaning "the goddess who is the earth." Bhudevi plays a central role in [[Vaishnavism|Vaishnavite]] mythology, where she is often portrayed as a supplicant, oppressed by evil forces, demons, or corrupt rulers. These stories frequently depict her appealing to [[Vishnu]] for assistance, and in response, Vishnu intervenes to alleviate her distress by taking different [[avatars]] or incarnations, reaffirming the bond between the earth goddess and the cosmic protector. In iconography, Bhumi is often depicted as a beautiful lady clinging to the tusk of her consort [[Varaha]], the boar-man incarnation of Vishnu. Alternatively, Vishnu is often shown standing between Bhudevi and Sri-[[Lakshmi]], symbolizing his protection of both the earth and prosperity.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3" />

While Bhudevi continues to be revered, her role in later mythology shifts from the Vedic portrayal of the earth as the stable, fertile ground supporting all life. In the Rigvedic hymns, Prithvi is exalted for her boundless fertility and capacity to sustain all creatures. However, in medieval texts, these qualities are transferred to other goddesses, such as [[Shakambhari]], Lakshmi, and [[Mahadevi]], while Bhudevi's primary role becomes that of a distressed earth, burdened by the weight of wickedness and seeking divine intervention. This transformation highlights Bhudevi’s evolution from an embodiment of the fertile and life-sustaining earth to a more vulnerable figure who requires divine support in times of crisis.<ref name=":0" >{{cite book |title=Hindu Goddesses: Vision of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Traditions |isbn=81-208-0379-5 |first=David |last=Kinsley |year=1987 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |ref=none}}</ref>