Reverence (deep respect) for the cow
In India, people that practice Hinduism consider the eating of cows taboo.
The cow represents life and the sustenance of life. The cow is so generous, taking nothing but water, grass and grain. The cow is a symbol of grace and abundance. The cow also symbolizes dignity, strength, endurance, maternity and selfless service.
"Hindus regard all living creatures as sacred – mammals, fishes, birds and more. We acknowledge this reverence for life in our special affection for the cow. At festivals we decorate and honor her, but we do not worship her in the sense that we worship the Deity."
Hindus have always appreciated the tolerance, patience and calmness of the cow. Thus, cows stood for the goodness of Hindu religion and considered a representative of Dharma.
The cow represents life and the sustenance of life. The cow is so generous, taking nothing but water, grass and grain. The cow is a symbol of grace and abundance. The cow also symbolizes dignity, strength, endurance, maternity and selfless service.
"Hindus regard all living creatures as sacred – mammals, fishes, birds and more. We acknowledge this reverence for life in our special affection for the cow. At festivals we decorate and honor her, but we do not worship her in the sense that we worship the Deity."
Hindus have always appreciated the tolerance, patience and calmness of the cow. Thus, cows stood for the goodness of Hindu religion and considered a representative of Dharma.
MilkLight and WorshipA product of cow's milk - ghee (clarified butter) - is used for Yajna (fire worship). Fire worship is the highest form prayer for Hindus. This adds religious significance to the cow.
MilkHindu scriptures have always considered milk as among the highest forms of food. Cow's milk is believed to have a great calming effect and improves meditation.
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Cow DungFuel for FireIndians use cow dung patties for fuel. Cow dung is used to make fire for cooking or Hindu ritual fires.
FertilizerCow dung is also used as a fertilizer in farming. This helps plants to grow.
Clean HouseCow dung and cow urine is also thought to be an disinfectant among ancient Indians and used to clean up home.
In India, in rural areas, it is still a common practice to polish the inside and outside of your house with cow dung. After festivals, rural Hindus coat their homes in cow dung to purify their houses. |
India Today
These are some examples from an Indian McDonalds today. Their menu's have sections for "vegetarian" and "non-vegetarian".
About 40% of India's people are vegetarian, which adds up to over 500 million people.
About 40% of India's people are vegetarian, which adds up to over 500 million people.