The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) was founded in 1966 and has grown to include a worldwide congregation of 10,000 temple devotees and 250,000 congregational devotees. The society, better known as the Hare Krishna movement, maintains centers, communities, schools and restaurants around the world.
The Hare Krishna movement is monotheistic and non-sectarian and seeks to promote societal welfare by promoting spirituality and awareness of Krishna (God), along with bringing members together in a simpler, more natural way of life.
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of the movement, set forth these seven aims for the society:
- To systematically propagate spiritual knowledge to society at large and to educate all people in the techniques of spiritual life in order to check the imbalance of values in life and to achieve real unity and peace in the world.
- To propagate a consciousness of Krishna (God), as it is revealed in the great scriptures of India, Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
- To bring the members of the Society together with each other and nearer to Krishna, the prime entity, thus developing the idea within the members, and humanity at large, that each soul is part and parcel of the quality of Godhead (Krishna).
- To teach and encourage the sankirtana movement, congregational chanting of the holy name of God, as revealed in the teachings of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
- To erect for the members and for society at large a holy place of transcendental pastimes dedicated to the personality of Krishna.
- To bring the members closer together for the purpose of teaching a simpler, more natural way of life.
- With a view towards achieving the aforementioned purposes, to publish and distribute periodicals, magazines, books and other writings.
(Information taken from www.iskcon.com. Image courtesy of www.utahkrishnas.com.)
1 comment:
I didn't know about Krishna until I attended the Festival of Colors a few weeks ago. Although I don't completely understand their beliefs, I had a great time at the festival and learned a lot about their religious culture. The adherents and other volunteers were very kind and hospitable and I had a great time. I respect the Krishnas and think that their presence in Utah Valley adds a lot to the community.
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