Where and When Does it Come From?
Historically speaking, “Krishna Consciousness” in its exact current form began in West Bengal, India towards the beginning of the Modern Era of human history at the end of the fifteenth century. The founder was Sri Krishna Caitanya, more simply called “Mahaprabhu,” the Great Master.
It existed in slightly different forms long before that, dating back at least to the earthly advent of its central figure, Krishna, roughly 5,000 years ago in North-Central India.
Philosophically speaking, “Krishna Consciousness” refers to the inherent state of enlightenment. There have always been such enlightened souls in the universe, so Krishna Consciousness has existed in some form or another since the dawn of existence.
Who is Krishna? Who am I?
Krishna is the One Supreme Being from whom all beings emanate, but being “one” has an “imperfection” – loneliness. That is why the one becomes many and eternally manifests countless persons, places and things; including me and you.
Who am I? I am not this temporary physical body, nor am I any emotion or concept connected to my body. I am an eternal fragment of Krishna. Like my source, I too desire not to be lonely. Both Krishna and I want to experience the joyful feelings of oneness and togetherness that are inherent in the emotions of love. While under the influence of illusion I seek this fulfillment apart from Krishna, but when enlightened I realize unlimited fulfillment of these desires by focusing them on their original source, Krishna.
How Do I Realize Krishna and Become Enlightened?
I simply need to practice doing things for the sake of love for Krishna. There are unlimited possibilities, but a simple and effective way is to lend my ear to hearing about Krishna’s all-attractive, divine personality.
Mahaprabhu taught the version of Krishna Consciousness most appropriate for the conditions of modern life. This version does involve silent personal meditation but more strongly emphasizes the value of hearing about Krishna in social, entertaining, and engaging formats, especially involving music. Both in private meditation and in musical format the main thing to do is to hear Krishna’s names, especially the maha-mantra:
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare
Hare invokes the Goddess of Love. Krishna invokes the supremely enchanting and attractive Godhead. Rama invokes the source of all joy. Hearing and reciting these names for the purpose of sharing oneself emotionally with Krishna is the primary method of enlightenment on the path of Krishna Consciousness.
Thanks for reading.
