Importance of Cow in Hinduism

      Rig-Veda itself has several references to cow. In one such reference, the sacred animal is compared to mother earth. Another Rishi refers to cow as Goddess Aditi. Rig-Veda refers cow as 'Aghnya' which literally means 'not to be killed'. Therefore, cow has always been considered as beyond killing from the ancient Indian culture time. By the time, Atharva Veda gets composed, cow's status gets upgraded to being fit for worship. There are many other scriptures as well which speak of prohibition of eating cow's meat.

Cow in Hinduism

      'Kamadhenu', the so called mother of all cows is treated as a miraculous creature and is considered as a provider of plenty. Especially useful for Brahmins, Cow's milk and its derivatives provide them with main foods. Possession of cows has always been looked up as a symbol of wealth and hence, donating a cow to a Brahmin is taken as one of the largest donation providing bundle of good karma to its giver.

      It is interesting that sanctity of cow protection has not only survived all through our long history, it has gathered further strength with many pro-Hindu organizations regularly calling for its protection and ban on its slaughter. Besides its revered status in our scriptures, cow has retained its great contribution in sustaining human life at the subcontinent all through. It is seen helping human at every step of its life cycle including by providing best possible leather out of its skin post death. In yet another feature of seeking harmony and balance with all living beings, Indian culture alone is to be credited for repaying the dues of this great animal with its veneration and such veneration and respect has no other parallel in any other culture.

      The history of Hinduism will never be complete without a deep reference to the respect given to this simple and gentle animal for all its contribution to human life in our country in terms of providing, all through its whole life, richest possible natural nutrients, eco friendly manure supplement, agriculture power and leather.