In the Satya Yuga in the light half of the month of Kárttika (Oct.-Nov.), on the twelfth lunar day, the Creator manifested himself in the shape of a tortoise. They relate that the deities wished to obtain the water of immortality after the manner of butter by churning the ocean of milk. Instead of a churning-stick, they used the largest of the mountains, Mandara. From its excessive weight the mountain sunk into the ocean, and great were their difficulties. The Deity assumed this shape and bore up the mountain on his back and the gods obtained their desire.
By this miraculous act, fourteen priceless objects were brought up from the sea:—(1). Lakshmí, the goddess of fortune, appeared as a bride and thus a source of happiness to all creatures was obtained. (2). Kaustubha-maṇi or the wonderful jewel Kaustubha, of extraordinary lustre and in value beyond price. (3). Parijátaka-vṛiksha, the miraculous tree Parijátaka* whose flowers never fade and whose fragrance fills the universe. Some say that it grants all desires. It is called also Kalpa-vṛiksha.* (4). Sura, (the goddess of) wine. (5). Dhanvantari, the physician (of the gods) who could heal the sick and raise the dead to life. In his right hand, he held a leech and in his left (a branch of) the myrobalan tree.* His Majesty considers that these two should be regarded separately and the number of treasures be accounted sixteen. (6). Chandra-maṇi, the (moon-gem or) world-illumining moon. (7). Káma-dhenu, the miraculous cow which gave forth from her udders the gratification of every wish. (8). Airávata, the white elephant (of Indra) with four tusks. (9). ´Sankha, the white conch-shell of wondrous sound that bestowed victory on whomsoever possessed it. (10). Visha, deadly poison. (11). Amṛita, the water of life. (12). Rambhá, the nymph, beautiful and sweet-dispositioned.* (13). A´śva, the horse with eight heads. (14). Sárangadhanus, or the bow Sáranga of which the unerring arrow carried to any distance.
After producing these inestimable treasures, the tortoise descended into the earth and is believed still to exist.