The reverence for animals, known as zoophilia, dates back to ancient times and exists in the cultures of many peoples. In different countries, various animals are endowed with divine status, become symbols of virtues, or embody higher powers. This attitude is reflected in mythology, religious rituals, everyday life, and even in state symbols.

India: the cow - mother and nurturer

The most vivid example is the veneration of the cow in Hinduism. This animal symbolizes purity, sacrifice, and the maternal principle. According to beliefs, the cow Kamdhenu, emerging from the ocean, is capable of fulfilling desires. Killing a cow is considered a terrible sin, and beef is strictly prohibited. In Indian cities, cows move freely on the streets, are given way, and are considered inviolable. Also sacred is the bull Nandi, which serves as a riding animal for the god Shiva.

Ancient Egypt: cats and divine bulls

In Ancient Egypt, the cult of animals reached unprecedented heights. A special place was occupied by cats, associated with the goddess of joy and the hearth Bastet. The god Ra was also depicted as a huge cat. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was punished by death, and the death of a pet became a cause for mourning in the family. Dead cats were mummified and buried with honors.

No less revered was the sacred bull Apis. Only one bull with special signs, such as a triangular spot on the forehead, was endowed with this status. He lived at the temple, was fed like a king, and was solemnly buried in a special necropolis after death.

Thailand: the white elephant - a sign of royal grandeur

In Thailand, the elephant, especially the white one, is recognized as a sacred animal. In the Buddhist tradition, the white elephant is associated with one of the Buddha's rebirths. These animals are considered symbols of royal power, prosperity, and luck. White elephants are never used for heavy labor and are maintained at the state's expense. Even the outline of Thailand on the map is compared to an elephant's head. In honor of them, the state holiday Chang Tai is held, when animals are honored with a festive feast.

Eastern and South Asia: the tiger and the snake

In the cultures of China, Vietnam, and Nepal, the tiger is highly respected. He embodies bravery, anger, and serves as a protector against evil spirits. Images of the tiger are often found at the entrance to temples and palaces. In India, snakes, especially cobras, are considered sacred. They are the necklace of the god Shiva, and a festival is held in their honor every year - Nagapanchami.

Other revered animals

The reverence for animals is also characteristic of other cultures. The horse was sacred to Indo-European peoples, including the Romans, and was associated with the god Poseidon. The pig was a sacred animal for the Celts, symbolizing military valor and magical power. In the mythology of Native American tribes of North America, the white bison represents righteousness and abundance. For the ancient Maya and Aztecs, the sacred bird was the quetzal, embodying the god of air and wind.

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