Sacred Animals Around the World Since Ancient Times
Cows in India Cows have been revered as holy creatures in India for ages. It is one of the most popular creatures in the animal worshipping concept all over the world. Cows are a fantastic source of kindness, according to Indians. Because the milk they provide is useful to all beings, it is seen as an emblem of Mother Earth.
Cats in Ancient Egypt The Egyptian civilization was fond of animal worship rites, believing in the sanctity of a number of holy animals and linking them with certain deities. Zoomorphism was a significant aspect of ancient Egyptian civilization, with crocodiles, baboons, bulls, fish, birds, and, most notably, cats being revered.
Dogs in Nepal and India Dogs are revered to Hindus and are said to protect their ancestors. Dogs, unlike cows, are used in Hindu animal worship rites, particularly in India and Nepal. They not only adore dogs, but they also elevate them to a high position, honouring them every year at their well-known Hindu festival, Tihar.
Grey Wolf in Turkey Because the majority of Turkish people are Muslims, animal worship isn't a big element of their ceremonies. However, it didn't stop people from elevating some creatures and holding them in great regard, and the grey wolf is one of them. Even after the rise of Islam, wolves remain revered creatures in Turkey, and Turkish folklore is rich with wolf legends and myths.
Snakes in North America One of the most important gods in Native American mythology is Quetzalcoatl, sometimes known as the feathered serpent. In most old folktales, it's a common god, part bird and half serpent, consuming humans. This was particularly prevalent among the Aztecs, who believed that snakes were holy animals.
Wild Bulls in Greece The Greek culture has several holy creatures that played important roles in moulding its history and folklore. Although donkeys, goats, serpents, and lions are all sacred creatures in Greece, the wild bull is by far the most renowned.
Crocodiles in Egypt Crocodiles used to live abundantly in the Nile; thus, Egyptians deemed them sacred animals that protected their water and symbolised the strength and power of the pharaohs. Even more, the crocodile was perceived as the god of water.
Damascus Goats in Syria Goats are a popular animal in the Middle East. The Damascus goat, which is native to Syria, remains the most common breed. This breed has even been named the world's most beautiful goat.
Tigers in Korea The Korean tiger is one of South Korea's holy animals, representing dominance and strength. This explains why the tiger is depicted as a winged beast in numerous folktales and historical stories, and why it is important in Korean mythology. Tigers have roamed freely through the jungles of South Korea for millennia.
Dragons in China Dragons have somehow become associated with Chinese culture, one of their sacred animals with the highest status and respect. Although flying dragons with fire breath never existed, they stemmed from pure imagination, and giant lizards in China were behind that inspiration.