The Hare Krishna Movement
What is Hare Krishna all about?
The ‘Hare Krishna Movement’ is the informal name of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), and has its roots in the ancient teachings of the ‘Vedas’, which are historical philosophical treatises dating back to over 5,000 years. The Vedas are also the source of many eastern religions and traditions including the popular doctrine of yoga. The followers of the Hare Krishna movement, popularly known as the ‘Hare Krishnas’ follow a specific form of yoga called ‘bhakti yoga’, or the yoga of love and devotion towards the divine personality of God, famously known as Krishna. The movement was brought to the western world in 1965 by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, known lovingly by the followers of the movement as ‘Srila Prabhupada’.
Hare Krishna FAQs
Who is Krishna?
Vasudeva, or Lord Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Anyone, can take advantage of the holy names of Lord Sri Krsna even in the midst of greatest dangers. The transcendental name of Krsna, even though uttered unconsciously or by force of circumstances, can help one obtain freedom from the hurdle of birth and death.
Do I have to give up my job or belongings to become a member?
NO.
Do I need to change my dress to become a devotee?
NO.
Can I practice Krishna consciousness if I am married and have a family?
It is not advisable to leave one’s family suddenly, for people are not trained. It would be better to remain with family and try to become purified by chanting the Hare Krsna maha-mantra regularly under the direction of a spiritual master.
One can remain comfortably in his residence. We simply request everyone to chant the maha-mantra: Hare Krsna, Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna, Hare Hare/ Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
One can read Bhagavad-gita As It Is, and Srimad-Bhagavatam. These works are now available in an English translation and are done very authoritatively to appeal to all classes of men.
What is the method of practice?
The method is very simple. Associate with devotees, and take part in all the activities related to Krishna. You can especially chant this holy name under guidance: Hare Krsna, Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna, Hare Hare/ Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
Can women joing the Hare Krshna Movement?
Yes, of course.
What is the chanting of the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra
This chanting of the Hare Krsna mantra is enacted from the spiritual platform, and thus this sound vibration surpasses all lower strata of consciousness — namely sensual, mental, and intellectual. There is no need, therefore, to understand the language of the mantra, nor is there any need for mental speculation nor any intellectual adjustment for chanting this maha-mantra. It is automatic, from the spiritual platform, and as such, anyone can take part in the chanting without any previous qualification.
What is the Hare Krishna Lifestyle?
There is a large scope of lifestyles just as there is a large scope of practical situations in everyones life. Devotees can help you create a more Krishna Consciousness lifestyle regardless of your situation.
What is a Hare Krishna Diet?
We recommend that you eat Prasadam (Mercy). That means food that is offered to Krishna first in thanks, before taking.
Is Hare Krishna Movement a Hindu movement?
No. That is a misconception. This cultural movement is especially meant to educate all people in how they can love God.
What do you think about different Religions?
There’s one God, and one nature’s law, and we are all under that nature’s law. We are controlled by the Supreme.
The Hare Krsna movement is meant for those who are serious about understanding this science. There’s no question of our being some sectarian group. No. Anyone can join. Students in college can be admitted. You may be a Christian, you may be a Hindu, you may be a Muhammadan — it doesn’t matter. The Krsna consciousness movement admits anyone who wants to understand the science of God.