“harer-nama harer-nama harer-namaiva kevalam...”
‘Harinama, Harinama, Harinama is the only and foremost means to achieve emancipation. There is no other way in this age of Kali.’
The core principles of ISKCON are based on Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita, and Sri Chaitanya-Charitamrta.
Origin
Every soul is eternally connected with Krishna. Gaudiya Vaishnavism, as taught by Lord Chaitanya, emphasizes acintya bheda tattva: we are simultaneously one with and different from God.
Core Beliefs (by Srila Prabhupada)
- Spirit over body: We are not this body, but spirit souls.
- Reincarnation: We undergo birth and death repeatedly until liberated.
- Spiritual World: Free from suffering, unlike the material world.
- Supreme Controller: Krishna is the ultimate controller, beyond all.
- Connection through Bhakti: Sankirtana (chanting) is the most effective path.
Process of Bhakti Yoga
Devotion with determination, association with devotees, and chanting the holy names cleanse the heart and lead to self-realization. Bhakti Yoga is a joyful path centered on love and surrender to Krishna.
Founder’s Statement
Srila Prabhupada’s mission:
- To spread spiritual knowledge & Krishna consciousness.
- To promote unity, peace, and harmony.
- To support sankirtana and build temples for Krishna.
- To live simply and spiritually with devotion.
- To publish and distribute literature for spiritual upliftment.