Krishna Consciousness
Krishna Consciousness, also known as Kṛṣṇa-bhakti or Kṛṣṇa Consciousness, refers to a spiritual practice within the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism. It emphasizes devotion (bhakti) to Lord Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead. The movement is particularly associated with ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness), founded in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
Key principles of Krishna Consciousness include:
Chanting the Holy Names: The central practice is the chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra: "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare." Chanting this mantra is believed to purify the mind and elevate the soul, helping practitioners develop a direct connection with Krishna.
Devotional Service (Bhakti Yoga): Krishna Consciousness teaches that devotional service to Krishna, including practices such as prayer, studying sacred texts (like the Bhagavad Gita and Śrīmad Bhāgavatam), and engaging in temple worship, helps individuals reconnect with their spiritual essence.
