In ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness), founded by Srila Prabhupada, Lord Krishna is considered the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This understanding is rooted in the teachings of ancient Vedic scriptures, particularly the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, which are central to ISKCON’s philosophy.
Krishna: The Supreme Personality of Godhead
- Krishna as the Supreme Lord:
- According to Srila Prabhupada and ISKCON, Krishna is not just one of many gods; He is the Supreme Lord, the source of all other incarnations and forms of God. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna Himself declares, “I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me” (Bhagavad Gita 10.8). This verse is often cited in ISKCON teachings to emphasize Krishna’s position as the ultimate Godhead.
- Krishna’s Eternal Form:
- Krishna’s form is described as eternal, full of knowledge, and blissful (sac-cid-ananda). Unlike other beings, who are bound by the material body, Krishna’s form is transcendental. Srila Prabhupada often explained that Krishna’s form is not a creation of material nature but is purely spiritual.
- Krishna’s Pastimes:
- ISKCON followers celebrate and meditate on Krishna’s divine pastimes, which are described in texts like the Srimad Bhagavatam. These pastimes include His childhood activities in Vrindavan, His youthful exploits, and His role as a king in Dwaraka. These stories are not just myths but are considered historical events that took place on earth, revealing Krishna’s divine nature and His loving relationship with His devotees.
- Krishna’s Teachings:
- Krishna’s teachings, especially in the Bhagavad Gita, are central to ISKCON’s philosophy. The Gita is considered the essence of all Vedic knowledge, and it presents Krishna as the ultimate guru, guiding Arjuna and, through him, all of humanity. Srila Prabhupada’s commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, known as “Bhagavad-gita As It Is,” is widely read and respected within ISKCON and beyond.
- Krishna’s Role as the Supreme Controller:
- ISKCON teaches that Krishna is the supreme controller (Ishvara) of the universe. Everything that happens is under His control, and He maintains the cosmic order. This understanding instills in devotees a deep sense of surrender and trust in Krishna’s divine plan.
- Devotional Service (Bhakti):
- According to Srila Prabhupada, the highest form of worship is devotional service to Krishna, known as Bhakti-yoga. This involves chanting His holy names, offering food, and dedicating one’s actions to His pleasure. ISKCON promotes the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra as the most powerful means of connecting with Krishna in this age.
- Krishna’s Compassion:
- Krishna is also seen as the most compassionate and loving deity. He is always eager to protect His devotees and grant them liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Srila Prabhupada often emphasized that Krishna is easily pleased by sincere devotion, regardless of one’s background or qualifications.
Srila Prabhupada’s Contribution
Srila Prabhupada played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of Krishna consciousness worldwide. He translated and wrote extensive commentaries on Vedic scriptures, making the profound philosophy accessible to everyone. He established ISKCON temples around the world, where Krishna’s deity is worshipped daily with great devotion.
In summary, according to ISKCON and Srila Prabhupada, Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, the source of all creation, and the ultimate goal of life. Devotion to Krishna, as taught by Srila Prabhupada, is the path to eternal bliss an
