Significance of Heifer
Heifer, as defined in Dharmashastra, refers to a young female cow that serves as restitution for killing non-carnivorous animals. Historically in India, the term also denotes a young female cow that a midwife promises to a family in return for caring for a child. This signifies a form of contractual exchange within societal practices, emphasizing the importance of heifers in both religious and cultural contexts.
Synonyms: Female calf, Cow, Calf, Young cow
In Dutch: Varsh; In Finnish: Hieho
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Heifer'
In Hinduism, a Heifer symbolizes a young female cow, designated as restitution for the killing of non-carnivorous animals, reflecting the religion's emphasis on non-violence and respect for all living beings.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A young female cow, which is specified as the restitution for killing non-carnivorous animals.[1]
The concept of Heifer in local and regional sources
Heifer signifies a young female cow pledged by a midwife to a family as part of a caregiving exchange, illustrating a unique form of contract that emphasizes communal support and responsibility in child-rearing.
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A young female cow promised by the midwife to the family in exchange for taking care of the child, highlighting a form of contract or exchange.[2]
The concept of Heifer in scientific sources
Heifer relates to the text as it describes the animals from which fecal samples were collected for determining fecal worm egg counts, indicating their role in a study focused on animal health and parasite management.
From: Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
(1) These are the animals from which faeces were collected to determine faecal worm egg counts, and were part of the study.[3]
Classical concept of 'Heifer'
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) A "Heifer" is a young female cow that, in the story, lived in idleness and was later sacrificed during the harvest festival, contrasting with the Ox's labor.[4]