On the Way to Krsna is based on lectures Srila Prabhupada gave, mostly on the 7th chapter of the Bhagavad-gita, in New York in the fall of 1966. These were still his early days in the United States, and he addresses a quintessential part of what we think of as the American dream: the right to pursue happiness. Of course, the desire for happiness is not an American phenomenon but intrinsic to the human condition.
Without knowing what real happiness is, Srila Prabhupada says, happiness is impossible to achieve. In this small book, Srila Prabhupada discusses how happiness is found beyond the temporary, and illumines Lord Krishna's definition of happiness as it is presented in the pages of the Bhagavad-gita.
His Divine Grace Abhay Charanaravinda Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (अभय चरणारविन्द भक्तिवेदान्त स्वामी प्रभुपाद)was born as Abhay Charan De on 1 September 1896 in Calcutta, India.
He first met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Gosvami, in Calcutta in 1922. Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, a prominent devotional scholar and the founder of sixty-four branches of Gaudiya Mathas (Vedic institutes), liked this educated young man and convinced him to dedicate his life to teaching Vedic knowledge in the Western world. Srila Prabhupada became his student, and eleven years later (1933) at Allahabad, he became his formally initiated disciple.
At their first meeting, in 1922, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura requested Srila Prabhupada to broadcast Vedic knowledge through the English language. In the years that followed, Srila Prabhupada wrote a commentary on the Bhagavad-gita and in 1944, without assistance, started an English fortnightly magazine.
In the last ten years of his life, in spite of his advanced age, Srila Prabhupada circled the globe twelve times on lecture tours that have took him to six continents. In spite of such a vigorous schedule, Srila Prabhupada continued to write prolifically. His writings constitute a veritable library of Vedic philosophy, religion, literature and culture.
What Stephen Hawkings cannot explain, surely Srila Prabhupada can. With such deep wisdom and authority, he explains here, various topics on Krishna Consciousness that anyone who simply reads this will be attracted.
For instance, he says Bhagavad Gita is not a book that one can just purchase from the bookstore and understand by scholarship alone. Arjuna was not a great scholar, nor a Vedantist, nor a philosopher nor a brahmana, nor a renunciate; he was a family and military man. But still, Krishna selected him to be the recipient of eternal knowledge and the first authority in disciplic succession. Why? "Because you are My devotee", says Krishna. That is the qualification to understand Bhagavad Gita as it is and Krishna as He is- one must become Krishna Consciousness.
This is one of a number of small books which present the spiritual teachings of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami, Srila Prabhupada. In this book the author gives an over arching understanding of the spiritual way of life, what motivates us toward it and how we can fulfill that motivation and achieve our spiritual goals.
The author outlines the idea that everyone wants to be happy, but they do not know the real source of happiness. He describes the core spiritual practices that will change our lives and the way we can simply implement them.
In this book the author describes how we can immerse ourselves in our spiritual lives without leaving home, without giving everything away, and without becoming someone else.
The best thing about the book is that the author gives reference for his assertions to ancient spiritual texts. He is not making stuff up but presenting ancient spiritual truths that are still relevant even today
This is one of the only books I have finished in just 20 Mins.This is a great book that has verses that will foster the growth towards reaching Lord Krishna, who is the goal of life.
Everyone in this world is working for their satisfaction.. no one is working otherwise.. it may be that their scope of work is extended to people who they think that belong to them.. but all these designations of "my" and "mine" are based on the bodily concept of life... This book tells in very lucid and beautiful way, how we are not this body but a spirit soul, what is the highest goal of human life and how to achieve it... This book is highly recommended for neophytes who are searching after science of self realization
No estoy segura de entender bien el concepto de "naturaleza material" o mejor dicho el alcance del concepto. Un par de pasajes del libro hace referencia a la naturaleza como fuente de displacer, dolor y penurias y habla de los animales como seres inferiores en comparación con el ser humano... no existe mucha iluminación por ese camino.
Socrates, for instance who believed in the immortality of soul, was condemned to death, and upon being asked how he would like to be buried, replied, "First of all you may have to catch me."
On the Way to Krishna by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is a profound spiritual text that serves as a guide to understanding the path of devotion and the ultimate goal of life according to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Here's a review of the book:
Overview
The book emphasizes the importance of self-realization and developing a personal relationship with Lord Krishna. It explains how material desires often distract us from our true purpose and how the path of bhakti (devotion) can lead to spiritual fulfillment.
Themes
1. Material vs. Spiritual Life: The book draws a sharp contrast between transient material pleasures and eternal spiritual happiness.
2. Devotion to Krishna: It outlines the process of surrendering to Krishna, focusing on chanting, service, and devotion.
3. Practical Guidance: The text offers simple yet profound instructions for incorporating spirituality into everyday life, such as practicing meditation and understanding one's true identity.
Writing Style
The author uses a direct and conversational tone, making complex spiritual ideas accessible to readers from all backgrounds. The text is filled with references to the Bhagavad Gita and Vedic scriptures, lending authenticity and depth to the teachings.
Strengths
Clarity: The book simplifies intricate concepts, making them relatable.
Relevance: It addresses universal questions about purpose, happiness, and the nature of the soul.
Practicality: Offers actionable steps for spiritual growth.
Limitations
Cultural Specificity: Some readers unfamiliar with Hindu philosophy might find certain terms or concepts challenging without prior context.
Repetitive: Key messages are reiterated frequently, which may feel redundant to some.
Conclusion
"On the Way to Krishna" is a timeless spiritual guide that encourages introspection and devotion. It's a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of life and spirituality, especially within the framework of the Bhagavad Gita. The book inspires readers to look beyond material pursuits and connect with their inner divinity.
I have read some many books of Prabhupada and his disciples But this book has special place in my heart Bcoz this is the first book I have read since I joined isckon and was given to me by one of my brahmachari mentor since that day I have never stop reading books. This book has remind me of my lost hobby or passion of reading books and converted into reading scriptures and philosophical book Prabhupada books are in simple language and anybody can read and understand it Prabhupada has given us precious gifts in form of books I do read this book when ever I feel to so...
This book offers a clear and straightforward path to understanding Krishna consciousness. Prabhupada's words are easy to follow, and he explains deep spiritual ideas in a way that anyone can understand. It's a great book for anyone curious about spiritual life and developing a connection with Krishna. It helps you see the purpose of life more clearly and guides you on your spiritual journey. Highly recommended!
Me desagrado como se refieren a los animales como seres no pensantes ni inteligentes incapaces de poder darse cuenta cuando a otro animal esta siendo sacrificado, este no comprenderá que el también esta en peligro. Cosa que yo desapruebo totalmente. Los animales "SI" tienen sentimientos, son inteligentes y seres pensantes.
I started reading it because someone give it to me then I started reading first I don't understand alot of things but after some time. It feels like add a new perspective toward devotion to me with such a deep explanation and explain it with a easy examples. Also in the last chapter it also gives so much significant question answer which give me new idea to the Krishna Consciousness.
I am in no authority to write something about this. This is a must read book, it explains the 7th chapter of Bhagavad-Gita (i e., Knowledge of the absolute).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
a great book to read to relearn what has been taught to me which also serves as a self reminder on the importance of learning about the Supreme Personality of Godhead
Como en tantos libros de espiritualidad, en este puedes aprender muchas cosas para sobrellevar esta vida cada vez más abrumante y pesada, y encontrar algo de paz entre tanto caos.
Me desagrado como se refieren a los animales como seres no pensantes ni inteligentes incapaces de poder darse cuenta cuando a otro animal esta siendo sacrificado, este no comprenderá que el también esta en peligro. Cosa que yo desapruebo totalmente. Los animales "SI" tienen sentimientos, son inteligentes y seres pensantes.
Es el primer libro que leo sobre Krishna, la información contenida ayudó a que comprendiera mejor esta religión. Ya que no he leído otro libro sobre Krishna no lo puedo comparar en cuanto a contenido; lo que si puedo opinar es que está escrito de forma interesante y amena.
THIS BOOK HURT MY BRAIN. SO MANY CONTRADICTIONS AND EVEN DISMISSING ALL LOGIC, I FOUND IT HARD TO MAKE SENSE. THE HARE KRSHNA'S, OR HAIRY CHRISTIANS, AS I PREFER TO CALL THEM, ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS SERIOUSLY??? DON'T YOU GUYS HAVE BRAINS??? ARE YOU NOT SMART ENOUGH TO SEE HOW MUCH BULLSHIT IS IN THIS BOOK????