I never really believed that Hindus honored cows because a cow might harbor the soul of a dead relative. I always thought it was because cows were a great resource - dairy products.
I may have to rethink this...
I always the enjoyed Terence McKenna’s mirthful explanation.
In ancient India the cows pooped and magic mushrooms grew on their poop and the natives were so pleased they worshipped the cows.
;-)