Why Cow is a sacred Animal?

Hinduism strongly believes in Ahimsa and that Hindus consider cruelty to animals is a sin against God. But I do say that there are two groups in HINDUS - one is vegetarian and the other is Non-vegetarian. But, in general, every Hindu considers cow is a sacred animal and Hindus treat the cows the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and they worship.

Umashankar. K

Mahatma Gandhi wrote "If someone were to ask me what the most important outward manifestation of Hinduism was, I would suggest that it was the idea of cow protection." Hindus consider cows sacred for many reasons. This reverence that Hindus show for cows is generally misinterpreted and even mocked. Hinduism encourages love of animals and treating all living beings with kindness. Hindus believe that the Supreme Creator resides in all beings.

History

1. Cows are mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures such as Atharva Veda and in Indian mythology. Lord Krishna, who Hindus consider an incarnation of Vishnu the Protector, was a cow herd. Lord Shiva's Vahana (vehicle) is Nandi, the bull. He was Shiva and Parvathi's gate keeper. Sculptures and statues depicting these historic associations can be found in Hindu temples that are over a thousand years old.

Significance

2. A cow is a source of nutrition, providing milk, buttermilk, butter and clarified butter (ghee). Cow dung has been used as manure and bio fuel for thousands of years in rural India. When spread on the floor, its antiseptic property keeps insects and rodents away. Cow's urine (gorojana) contains several elements, vitamins and hormones and is useful in treating various diseases. It is also a non-polluting insecticide.

Misconceptions

3. Non-Hindus who are not familiar with the reasons why the cow is considered sacred often attribute the way a cow is treated by Hindus to superstition. However, Hindus treat cows with reverence and gratitude because of all the benefits they provide. A cow is considered equivalent to one's Mother or Goddess by many Hindus.

Fact

4. Hindus believe that a cow is a symbol of Goddess Lakshmi, who represents good fortune. On religious occasions, Hindus make an offering to a cow before dining themselves. During a Hindu house-warming ceremony, in many parts of India, a cow is brought in to bless the new home. She is honored with a special Puja (ritual) and is smeared with vermilion and sandalwood paste.

Considerations

5. Cows roam about freely even on busy streets in India. Citizens can be punished for harming a cow. Thus they pose traffic hazards, often causing drivers to maneuver their way around a herd of cows. In some cities like New Delhi, special programs are being undertaken to transport the cows safely outside the city limits, sometimes to reserves where they are cared for.

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