Sūta said: Thereafter he was desirous of creating the four groups, viz. Devas, Asuras, Pitṛs and human beings. He infused himself in the waters. Even as he did so, even as he assiduously meditated on creation, the particles of darkness grew up in excess. Then out of his buttocks were produced the Asuras. O brahmins, the word ‘asu’ means vital breath. Those born of the vital breath are called Asuras.