“ONE MAN`S MEAT, ANOTHER MAN`S GOD.”

Cattle, also known as Bos taurus, are large, domesticated members of the Bovinae family which are widely kept as livestock. They come in handy for quite a number of purposes such as being used for labour on farms, getting dairy products and many more but the major and widespread importance of the cattle is the meat it provides. According to Healthline, beef is an excellent source of protein as animal protein has been found to contain all nine essential amino acids needed for the growth and maintenance of the body. Also, consuming beef has been found to be a way of preventing iron deficiency anemia as it is a rich source of iron - mainly in the form of heme iron.

However, as delicious as the cattle and their products may be to some, they are considered sacred and not to be touched by some others. For some, cattle are regarded as spiritual messengers representing deities of different forms. Beginning in Mesopotamia around 6,000 B.C., cow and bull worship was a common practice in many parts of the world. It later spread to Northwestern India in the second millennium B.C. with the invasion of the Indus Valley by Aryan nomadic pastoralists who established the Vedic religion. 

Cow worship has been found in several parts of the world among religions such as Jainism, Buddhism as well as in African paganism but the veneration and worship of cows is found to be more prominent in Hinduism. It is deeply rooted in India`s history, mythology, and spirituality, making it an important part of Hindu culture and culture. The cow is considered as a symbol of non-violence, selfless giving and compassion, as it provides milk, dung, and other resources for human use without any expectation of reward.

According to Hindu mythology, the cow is associated with various gods and goddesses and are considered a sacred symbol of divine and natural benefits. Kamadhanya, the Hindu goddess of fertility and nourishment is usually depicted holding a cow. Kamdhenu, believed to grant all desires and wishes, is depicted as a cow with multiple heads and arms and is revered as the mother of all cows. Kamdhenu, as told by Hindu mythology, was created by Brahmaji, the sovereign deity, as a gift to Vasishthaji, one of the seven great Rishis who used her to help poor and needy people and also bring peace and prosperity to the society. 

The respect and protection for the cattle in Hinduism was started by Lord Krishna, who had a deep affection for cows. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna is depicted as the protector of cows and was often seen playing his flute while surrounded by cows in a pastoral setting.

Cows are believed to represent the earth and its bountiful resources. In Hinduism, the cow is seen as a symbol of wealth, strength, motherly love, and selfless giving. It is believed that by showing reverence and respect to cows, one can attain happiness, prosperity and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Shittu, Ọpẹ́yẹmí Habeeb