What is the religious significance of cows in Hindu culture?
The cow and bull are considered the mother and father of human society, because of all the benefits they provide. The cow gives milk, a miracle food, simply by eating a little grass. The cow’s milk and other by products are vital to the Hindu vegetarian diet, and are used all in religious sacramental offerings. The bulls are traditionally used to till the fields to produce grains, society’s sustenance, and therefore are greatly valued and revered as Dharma or religion personified. Harming a cow or bull in any way is considered a greatly sinful act, and thus cows and bulls are protected even in their retirement age. In India, cows are present at religious functions and are even brought into the temples.
