The practice of ‘Gow Daan’, the gifting of a cow to a holy Brahmin, is one of the many ancient rituals of our ancestors that are steeped in philosophy. The Sanskrit word ‘Go’ has various meanings. Some of them are: ‘source of food’, ‘symbol of life’ and ‘senses’. The term ‘daan’ means ‘gift’. The expression ‘gow daan’ therefore means ‘the gift of a cow’.
The act of giving the cow to one’s Guru, pundit or deserving Brahmin, is done with the aim of acquiring victory over one’s senses, thereby enabling one to successfully overcome the challenges of the world. Symbolically represented, the devotee who performs such an action can expect to be freed from the cravings of his material world, from his sensual attractions and afflictions and worldly tastes since the one to whom he has made the gift has himself been freed from them. Chanakya Maharaj, writing in Chanakya Niti, states,‘Trishna Vaitarni Nadi’- Lust is the river in hell.’
One acquires this quality of lust as a result of lack of control of the senses. The ritual of ‘gow daan’ is a symbolic way of giving up the senses to a Brahmin who has controlled his senses. He is qualified to guide the individual towards victory over the senses and successfully cross over the ocean of mundane existence, as it were. In addition, one’s ancestors are also pleased and liberated by this action.
The question may be asked, ‘Why is a cow given?’ In Hinduism the cow is a symbol of life; it is an object of reverence and adoration; it is one of the five mothers accorded reverential position. Besides, the cow acts as surrogate mother. Its milk has been scientifically tested and found to be the closest thing to mother’s milk. Apart from the milk which nurtures man and promotes sattvic or purifying qualities, the cow provides an abundance of products that cater to the well-being of the society, from a health, environment and economical perspective.
The cow-dung is not only a cost-effective fertiliser, but it is also used as a disinfectant. Its smoke is an excellent anti-pollutant. The urine has medicinal properties while the ghee is used in puja. The combination of mango-wood, ghee, sugar, googool and black til into the lighting havan creates a pacifying and purifying effect , while at the same time builds positive vibrations in the environment.
Even when Divinity walked the earth, He ensured that the cows were well-taken care of. Bhagavan Shri Krishna was known as ‘Baal Gopaal’- the protector of the cows. He was also known as ‘Govinda’- one who brings satisfaction to the cows.
The act of performing ‘gow daan’ is one of the greatest sacrificial acts that can be performed. It is expected that after completing such an action one will be conscious of his detachment and make a concerted effort to maintain his position of victory of the senses.
