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In Sanatan dharma feeding cows is believed to be a sacred practice and is considered as an act of dharma that brings punya(spiritual merit), prosperity, and removes planetary afflictions and attracts abundance in life. This is because cows symbolize divinity and mother Earth, and are believed to house 33 crore deities, and this is why feeding cows is seen as a way to seek blessings of all deties. Interestingly, feeding specific foods to cows on auspicious days can help counter malefic effects of planet Shani (Saturn).
Why is Gau seva a part of Hindu culture?
According to Hindu mythology and vedic traditions, taking care and feeding cows holds a profound spiritual and symbolic meaning in Hindu culture, and the mention of Gua seva can be found in many ancient texts and scriptures that reveres cow as an embodiment of divine motherhood. In fact, this sacred practice transcends mere animal care as an act of honouring the almighty and paying gratitude, observing non-violence (ahimsa), and believing in cosmic harmony. Cows symbolize Mother Earth (Bhumi tatva) and provide some of the most valuable gifts of nature that are milk, cow dung for fuel, and urine (gaumutra) for medicinal uses, making their nourishment a sacred duty that helps seek blessings of the almighty and purifies the soul. Moreover, it is believed that feeding one cow can equate to serving the divine and seeking blessings of 33 crore deities.
PM Modi feeds cows at his residence on Makar Sankranti
Ancestral rites
It is believed that feeding cows during Pitru Paksha (Shradh) is a simple way to offer gratification and to honor departed souls, as according to Hindu beliefs this practice acts as a bridge between the living and the ethereal realms. According to ancient texts, it is believed that ancestors’ spirits find solace through the cow’s as it helps in granting peace, salvation, and relief from ancestral curses (Pitru Dosha) and also reduces karmic debts.
Astrological benefits
As per the books of Vedic astrology, it is believed that feeding cows is seen as a sacred act to mitigate the affect of malefic planetary influences (Navagraha doshas), and with specific foods offered on particular days for remedies like jaggery for Venus or green grass for Moon. Regular practice enhances mental clarity, health, and emotional balance while building positive karma against life’s obstacles.
Remedy for delayed marriage
Feeding cows can also remove karmic debts and reduce the stagnant blockages of life such as delayed marriage. One remedy that girls can perform every Thursday to strengthen their planet Jupiter by feeding soaked chana dal to cows, it is believed that doing this can speed up the process of marriage and help meet alliances. On the other hand eligible men can feed spinach or leafy greens or grass to cows on every Wednesday to strengthen Mercury, which can speed up the process of marriage.
Source: Times of India
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