Our Philosophy & Spiritual Values
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Our Founder
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in 1965. He travelled extensively around the world, sharing the timeless teachings of Krishna consciousness and inspiring millions through his example, lectures, and books - including the renowned Bhagavad-Gita As It Is.
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ISKCON
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly known as the Hare Krishna movement, is a global spiritual organization rooted in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition of Bhakti Yoga. ISKCON is dedicated to sharing the teachings of Lord Krishna as presented in ancient Vedic scriptures, particularly the Bhagavad-Gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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Bhakti Yoga
The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning "to connect" or "to unite." Bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit word bhaj, which means "loving service."
Together, bhakti-yoga refers to the process of connecting with the Supreme through loving, devotional service. It is considered the highest form of yoga, as it focuses on developing a deep, personal relationship with God through acts of devotion, meditation, and selfless service. -
Vedic Philosophy
The Vedas are ancient sacred texts that form the spiritual and philosophical foundation of Hinduism. Composed in Sanskrit, these timeless scriptures date back as early as 1700 BCE and contain profound knowledge on topics such as the nature of the self, the universe, and the Supreme.
The Hare Krishna movement is rooted in Vedic philosophy, with a special emphasis on key texts like the Bhagavad-Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam, which guide spiritual practice and understanding.
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Krishna Consciousness
Krishna consciousness is the practice of cultivating a deep, personal awareness and love for the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Krishna. It is the essence of Bhakti Yoga - the path of loving devotion - and represents the highest form of spiritual realization.
Krishna consciousness means to understand everything in relation to Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
By embracing Krishna consciousness, individuals embark on a journey of spiritual awakening, leading to inner peace, purpose, and eternal bliss.
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Deity Worship
At the Hare Krishna school, deity worship is an important part of our daily spiritual practice.
Krishna, or God, is pure spirit - completely beyond material nature. However, in the material world, we cannot perceive spirit directly; we can only perceive matter. By mercifully appearing in the form of a Deity, God allows us to see Him, honour Him, and serve Him, even while we are still in material existence. -
Lord Krishna
Krishna is a name of the original, Supreme Personality of Godhead - the ultimate source of everything that exists. God is known by many names, each reflecting a different aspect of His infinite personality. The name Krishna means "the all-attractive one," highlighting His unmatched beauty, charm, and qualities as experienced by His most devoted followers.
Krishna reveals Himself through countless loving pastimes - as a playful baby, a mischievous child, a devoted son, a wise mentor, a trusted friend, and a loving companion. Each of these forms offers a unique way for devotees to connect with Him and deepen their spiritual.
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Lord Chaitanya
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486–1534) is revered by Gaudiya Vaishnavas to be the Supreme Lord Krishna Himself, who descended in the form of His own devotee. Krishna came as Lord Chaitanya to personally teach and demonstrate the path of bhakti- loving devotional service to God.
Lord Chaitanya revealed the depth of divine love and made the chanting of the holy names (Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare / Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare) the most accessible and powerful means of spiritual realization in this age.
Through His life and teachings, He showed that anyone, regardless of background, can attain the highest perfection: pure love of God.
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The Divine Couple
The divine feminine counterpart of Sri Krishna is Srimati Radharani. Together, Radha and Krishna represent the complete manifestation of the Supreme - Sri Krishna as the source of all energies, and Srimati Radharani as the embodiment of that energy, especially the energy of divine love (bhakti).
Although eternally one in essence, Radha and Krishna appear in two distinct forms to experience and share the bliss of their loving pastimes. Their relationship is the highest expression of spiritual love, and the foundation of devotional life in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.