The zebu holds a central place in Malagasy society, being present during many important events marking social life. Traditionally, each part of the animal was assigned to a specific category of people:

The head was reserved for elders (loholona), symbolizing the respect and wisdom associated with this category. The hind was destined for the king (vodi-hena tsy mihainga aloha), embodying power and authority. The tail was for the king’s guards (Ny Mpiambina), representing loyalty and protection. The hump was given to special individuals: receiving a part of the hump meant much was expected of you. Consequently, by consuming this part, one found oneself invested with reflections on the expectations and responsibilities resting on your shoulders. Having this part marked an acknowledgment of your reliability and sense of responsibility. An equivalent proverb in English could be ‘To whom much is given, much is expected.’