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People who say that Hindus must be saved first, cows can be saved later, need to be asked – who do they call “Hindu”?
Pujypad Puri Shankaracharyaji explains the intimate connection between Hindus and cow protection.
The word “Hindu” has been derived from the call of the cow called “hinkaar”. The cow’s hinkaar has given the name Hindu as per the Rigveda. In the Rigveda, the word Hindu has been used as “hi” and “ndu”, meaning cow-worshippers. In the same way (as is, in the stated abbreviation), this has also been mentioned in the Atharva Veda.
Hindu and Sindhu are same (“s” and “h” are used interchangeably). “Hi” stands for Himalaya and “Indu” stands for “Indu” sarovar (Indian Ocean), that is, indicating the southern tip of Bharata – Kanyakumari (hence expresses the physical boundaries).
The one who destroys “hinata” or inferiority, is called Hindu.
The moon is also called Indu and this also gives the name Hindu.
Hence, the above are all important symbols of Hindu dharma.
As per Briddhasmriti (an ancient grantha), “Hindu” is one who is virtuous, non-violent but at the same time capable of destroying the anarchic violent elements, and is the protector of vedas and cattle.
As per the Madhava Digvijaya, Those who accept the seed mantra of vedas – Omkara, as their mantra, who have faith in rebirth and worship cattle and Ganga, who consider Vedic Maharishis as their Guru, and are capable of destroying the violent, and are the upholders of kshatra dharma – are Hindu.
Taking the above into view, it is not possible for us to call ourselves Hindus, if we do not protect cows since the word “Hindu” itself implies cow worshippers.
Learn more about Who Is A Hindu?