Animals obviously play an important role in human society. We keep them as pets for companionship. Their meat, eggs, and milk provide us with sustenance. And for centuries, horses and camels served as the primary means of long-distance transport. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the value we place on animals is often intertwined with our religious beliefs. Some are regarded as sacred, while others serve as important symbols for philosophies we hold dear. With that in mind, here are 8 animals that religions around the world regard as holy.
1. Cat (Ancient Egypt)
Ancient Egyptian society viewed cats as symbols of good luck. The goddess Bastet, who embodied a cat’s head on a human woman’s body, was identified with protection, home, fertility, and, of course, cats! Oh, and music because why not? Furthermore, ancient Egyptian royals had such reverence for cats that they’d dress them up in fine clothes and precious jewels. Although unverified, it’s been said Cleopatra was particularly devoted to a cat named Tivali.
8 of the Holiest Animals of the World’s Religions 