Ordinary people cannot even think of ascending it. It is graced with trees and streams, and resounds with the charming melody of winged choirs. Once the celestials sat on its begemmed peak and sat in conclave. They who had practised penances and observed excellent vows for amrita now seemed to be eager seekers after amrita (celestial ambrosia). Seeing the celestial assembly in anxious mood Narayana said to Brahman, ‘Do thou churn the Ocean with the gods and the Asuras. By doing so, amrita will be obtained as also all drugs and gems. O ye gods, churn the Ocean, ye will discover amrita.’”

In plain words: The gods gathered on top of Meru, anxious to find amrita, the drink that makes one immortal. Narayana (the god Vishnu) told them to churn the great Ocean together with the Asuras, their demon rivals. He said this would bring up amrita, along with healing medicines and jewels.