Why certain animals are considered divine

Animals hold a special place in Hindu religion. They are considered sacred and divine. People believe that some animals can even see the souls of their ancestors such as dogs, crows and cows and they are the medium to connect with them. India is the country, where the life of all living beings honored and revered. We have grown up seeing the different gods with different animals such as Lord Shiva has snake around his neck, Lord Vishnu rests on Sheshnaga, Bhairav Baba is always seen with a dog, Lion with Goddess Durga and so on. These animals hold deep hidden meaning because they are divine and according to Sanatan dharma they are honored and worshipped by the devotees. There are few divine animals in Hinduism that are considered sacred and if you want to know them then scroll down the article and check why are they considered divine.

Here are the following divine animals in Hinduism:

The Cow – Symbol of Nourishment and Motherhood

Cow is one of the most revered creature that represents the motherhood. Lord Krishna is often associated with them and we have always seen the pictures of Lord Krishna with cows, depicted as a divine cowherd. It is believed that 33 koti deities live inside a cow. She is worshipped in every household. Offering first chapati to the cow is considered meritorious. This is not just a superstitious deed but according to the one study conducted by New York University and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point found that volunteers, who spent time with cows experienced a reduction in anxiety and it helps a lot of people. Its like a miracle on earth not just a myth so whenever someone call it a myth then give them a befitting reply. That's why she is known as Gau Mata or mother cow.

Nandi (The Bull)

The Bull, known as Nandi is considered as the sacred animal. Nandi is the vehicle of Lord Shiva represents devotion, loyalty and patience. You must have seen Nandi sitting in all the Shiva temples. It teaches that the power should always be guided by the wisdom and faith. The bull is a symbol of strength, aggression, masculinity, and fighting force in the Vedic era. Devotees individually worship Nandi, the sacred bull.

Dog

Have you ever seen Bhairav Baba's idol with his dog. The dog is believed to be the mount or vahana of Bhairava, the fearsome form of Shiva. The dog's name is Shvan. In Hinduism, Dog represents guidance, for the devotees on their spiritual path. The dog is considered as the protective shield against negative energies. It is believed that the one who worship Lord Bhairav should also feed dogs in order to receive his blessings. It protects the heavenly abode from external dangers.

Lion

Lion represents strength and courage. Lion is the mount or vahana of Goddess Durga, the warrior goddess. It represents bravery, courage, fearlessness, authority. Goddess Durga rides a lion, who teaches courage at the time of adversity.

Garuda

Garuda is associated with Lord Vishnu, the vehicle of the lord. Garuda symbolizes protection, vigilance, and justice. Garuda is often depicted defeating serpents, represents victory over negativity and dark forces. Garuda is a symbol for dedication, divinity, service, and quickness. In Vishnu temples or temples devoted to the facets, incarnations, and manifestations of Vishnu, images of Garuda are always present.

These are the above few examples of divine animals because they belong to certain gods, goddess and deities. Mythological stories are connected with some of these animals such as Dog is also connected with Mahabharata as Dog was the one, who entered swarga with Yudhishthir. Elephant is also associated with Lord Ganesha as he got the elephant trunk that's why elephants are worshipped. Monkeys are connected with Lord Hanuman. So there are multiple stories that are mentioned in Hindu scriptures related to these animals. Even Gods and Goddesses also respected animals and gave them a special place so one should always think twice before hurting them and doing any sinful act.