Why did o lan kill the ox?

O-Lan killed the ox in "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck to provide sustenance for her family. The ox was a symbol of hard work and labor, but during a time of dire need, O-Lan prioritized her family's survival over the ox's value as a working animal. This act highlights the desperation and harsh realities faced by the characters in their struggle for existence. Ultimately, it underscores the themes of sacrifice and the difficult choices that come with poverty.