In recent times, the debate surrounding cow slaughter has gained significant attention. Karnataka Minister K Venkatesh's question, "Why should cows not be slaughtered?" brings to the forefront a topic deeply rooted in Indian culture and spiritual beliefs. Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), emphasized the sacredness of cows and their role as a symbol of compassion and harmony. In this article, we delve into the profound wisdom of Srila Prabhupada and explore the significance of cows in Indian society.
Srila Prabhupada often reiterated the ancient Vedic teaching that the cow is our mother. This analogy stems from the fact that just as a mother provides nourishment and sustenance to her children, cows provide us with milk, a vital source of nutrition. In his teachings, Prabhupada stressed the importance of showing gratitude and compassion towards these gentle creatures who selflessly provide us with their milk.
"According to smṛti regulation, the cow is the mother and the bull the father of the human being. The cow is the mother because just as one sucks the breast of one's mother, human society takes cow's milk" (SB 3.2.29 purport)
Beyond their role as a source of milk, cows hold profound symbolic significance in Indian culture. Prabhupada explained that cows are representations of the Earth's abundance and the divine qualities of motherhood and nourishment. They are also considered sacred in Hinduism because they embody the qualities of gentleness, patience, and selflessness. The cow symbolizes nature's generosity and provides a harmonious connection between humans and the environment.
Srila Prabhupada went a step further, claiming that many conflicts and wars throughout history can be traced back to the act of cow slaughter. He believed that the wanton killing of cows disrupts the natural balance and harmony in society, leading to an increase in violence and aggression. By protecting cows, Prabhupada argued, we contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world.
"In the West, slaughterhouses are maintained without restriction, and therefore every fifth or tenth year there is a big war in which countless people are slaughtered even more cruelly than the animals. Sometimes during war, soldiers keep their enemies in concentration camps and kill them in very cruel ways. These are reactions brought about by unrestricted animal-killing in the slaughterhouse and by hunters in the forest. Proud, demoniac persons do not know the laws of nature, or the laws of God." (SB 4.26.5 Purport)
From an ethical standpoint, Srila Prabhupada condemned cow slaughter as a deeply unjust act. He advocated for the adoption of ahimsa (non-violence) towards all living beings, including animals. Prabhupada emphasized that the sacredness of cows should guide our actions, encouraging a more compassionate and empathetic society.
Prabhupada inspired the establishment of numerous farm projects within the ISKCON community. These farm projects serve as sanctuaries where cows are sheltered, nurtured, and respected. They represent a practical way to honor the sacredness of cows and ensure their well-being. Such life centered around cows was demonstrated by Lord Krishna Himself in Vrindavan and Prabhupada wanted to make such Vrindavan villages all over the world.
In addition to emphasizing the sacredness of cows, Srila Prabhupada also highlighted the practical benefits of protecting them. According to his teachings, when cows are protected and treated with compassion, they provide an abundant supply of milk. The bulls, on the other hand, play a crucial role in agriculture by plowing the land and ensuring sufficient grain production. Prabhupada believed that by safeguarding cows, we not only ensure their well-being but also create favorable conditions for prosperity, including ample rainfall and bountiful harvests. Thus, cow protection is not only a matter of spirituality and ethics but also a pragmatic approach to sustainable living and agricultural self-sufficiency.
"Give protection to the cow, take milk from it, and eat food grains—your food problem is solved. Where is food problem? Why should you invent such civilization always full of anxieties, running the car here and there, and fight with other nation, and economic development? What is this civilization? Therefore we require to take to Kṛṣṇa consciousness to become happy every way-economically, philosophically, religiously, culturally, everything. That is Kṛṣṇa consciousness."
(Philosophy discussion on Socrates by Prabhupada)
The question posed by Karnataka Minister K Venkatesh invites us to explore the deeper significance of cows in Indian culture. Srila Prabhupada's teachings shed light on the reverence and compassion we should extend towards these gentle creatures. Recognizing the cow as our mother and preserving their protection aligns with principles of non-violence, environmental stewardship, and a more harmonious society. Embracing these teachings, we can cultivate a world that respects all forms of life and embraces the values of love, compassion, and peace.
By Rama Aprameya dasa