8 of the Holiest Animals of the World’s Religions (2 of 5)

2. Cow (Hinduism)

Among Hindus, Cows are on a sacred pedestal of their very own because for a thousand years, they’ve been vital in sustaining human life in India. They carry heavy loads. They plow fields. Pull wagons. Their dried dung is used as fuel. They provide milk. But they are never to be killed or eaten. Hindus use the holiday of Gospastami as an opportunity to wash cows and decorate them with a wreath of flowers.

3. Dove (Judaism, Christianity, Islam)

The dove plays an important role in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. All three religions share the story of Noah’s Ark, and, in particular, Noah’s use of birds to assess the ongoing conditions of the Earth. When a dove returns with an olive branch, it confirms that the planet has returned to normal and it is safe to leave the ark. Jews could sacrifice doves instead of lambs, which they might not afford. In Christianity, the dove represents the Holy Spirit, while in Islam, God used doves to send messages to Muhammad.