Where does the allusion sacred cow come from?

The phrase comes from the belief of devout Hindus that cows are sacred animals and should never be harmed. The earliest American usage of sacred cow to mean “immune from criticism” was in the late 1800s.

What does the allusion sacred cow mean?

Something that is considered above reproach or immune to negative criticism. An allusion to cows’ sacred status in the Hindu religion. One thing you have to understand is that freedom of speech is one of the sacred cows of American culture and politics.

What type of allusion is sacred cow?

Sacred Cow — Allusion of the Day (3) —The idiom “Sacred cow” refers to something that cannot be interfered with or harmed in any way—even if not interfering could be seen as harmful in some way. Example: Although the square dancing club only has two members, it is Mr. Philon’s sacred cow.

What is the sacred cow in India?

In ancient Hindu texts, the cow appears as “Kamdhenu” or the divine cow, which fulfils all desires. Its horns symbolize the gods, its four legs, the ancient Hindu scriptures or the “Vedas” and its udder, the four objectives of life, including material wealth, desire, righteousness and salvation.

What breed of cow is sacred in India?

zebu
Hinduism specifically considers the zebu (Bos indicus) to be sacred. Respect for the lives of animals including cattle, diet in Hinduism and vegetarianism in India are based on the Hindu ethics.

When did the cow become sacred in India?

The origin of the veneration of the cow can be traced to the Vedic period (2nd millennium–7th century bce). The Indo-European peoples who entered India in the 2nd millennium bce were pastoralists; cattle had major economic significance that was reflected in their religion.

Why is the cow considered sacred in India?

For many Hindus, who make up nearly 80 percent of India’s 1.3 billion strong population, the cow is a sacred animal. Its horns symbolize the gods, its four legs, the ancient Hindu scriptures or the “Vedas” and its udder, the four objectives of life, including material wealth, desire, righteousness and salvation.