Why " Patha" and not " Tiger"??? By Avijit Kahar.
In our typical HINDU culture , The act of sacrificing animals as part of religious rituals or ceremonies varies greatly across different cultures, traditions, and belief systems. It's important to note that animal sacrifice practices can be influenced by a variety of factors, including historical, cultural, and regional contexts. We, the Hindu always criticize Muslims for dealing cows but we are not ready to notice our culture.
In Hinduism, the practice of animal sacrifice varies among different sects and regions. Some Hindu rituals involve the sacrifice of animals, while others do not. The specific animals chosen for sacrifice can also vary depending on the ritual and tradition.
Regarding the specific animal a "Patha" (which I am referring to a Billy goat) is sacrificed in puja (worship), why is a tiger or bear or cobra not sacrificed?
First of all, It's important to understand that animal sacrifice in Hindu rituals is not universal. The choice of animal to be sacrificed can not only depend on various factors, such as the purpose of the ritual, the deity being worshiped, and the local customs and traditions but also our safety. If you think about a goat it's ok , no risk is there but if you try for a Tiger or Lion, you can be the tasty dish for them.
In our Hindu mythology, Tigers and bears are revered animals in Hinduism, and they hold symbolic and religious significance. Tigers are associated with the goddess Durga, who is often depicted riding a tiger. Bears are associated with Lord Shiva and are considered his vehicle (vahana) in some traditions. Due to their revered status, it is unlikely that tigers or bears would be sacrificed in Hindu rituals. But the original truth is something else. Humans are much intelligent than any other. Humans make all the fiercy animals as a vahana of some Gods or Goddess. Because they know we can't dare to touch them.
In prehistoric era, early man worshipped most dangerous and fiercy animal to save them and not to be prey of them. Now we are know that it's nonsense to catch a such a dangerous animals. So we are targeting Goat in Puja. But it should be banned now. And those who do this kind of inhuman behaviour, they must be punished by leagal authority.
But now in modern era, It's worth noting that practices and customs can vary widely within Hinduism, and not all Hindus practice animal sacrifice. Many Hindus focus on non-violence and engage in alternative forms of worship, such as offering fruits, flowers, or other symbolic items, rather than sacrificing animals. Actually we are now much educated and we know that Goddess Kali is not fond of any animals or blood. According to Hindu mythology, Kali drank blood of Raktabeej to prevent his rebirth and save us.
In summary, the practice of animal sacrifice in Hinduism is diverse and can differ based on various factors. While goats or other animals may be chosen for sacrifice in some rituals, tigers and bears, being revered animals, are unlikely to be sacrificed due to their symbolic and religious significance in Hindu traditions.
Thanks For Reading,
