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Krishna - The Supreme Personality of Godhead

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For literally thousands of years, the Vedic literatures of India have represented a vast treasure house of knowledge and delight for millions upon millions of readers. Unfortunately, many of the most interesting of these ancient Sanskrit texts have remained inaccessible to the modern reader in the West-that is, until now. This book contains an original account of the extraordinary pastimes of Lord Sri Krishna, who appeared on this planet 5,000 years ago. Absorb yourself in its pages and come directly in touch with His marvelous characteristics and glorious deed. Join Lord Krishna in a long-forgotten time as He enchants all the residents of the magical land of Vrindavana and simultaneously battles a fantastic array of wizards and warriors wholly bent upon His destruction. Sri Krishna's pastimes are not only charming, fascinating and highly entertaining but are full of deep philosophical wisdom and spiritual insight as well. Anyone who takes the time to read this one-of-a-kind book will be impressed by its relevance to contemporary human concerns.

1032 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1970

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About the author

A.C. Bhaktivedanta

813 books716 followers
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.

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5 stars
623 (75%)
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114 (13%)
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53 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Krishna.
Author 32 books60 followers
October 16, 2014
For most of us the term ‘Supreme Personality of Godhead’ is somewhat unusual. I know when I first encountered it I was bemused, wondering just who or what is a ‘Godhead’? Why not just God? Consulting the dictionary I discovered that Godhead means the ‘essential being of God’. This is precisely what Prabhupada intended to convey with his use of the term. There may be many names and forms of God, but Krishna is the original. He is the Supreme Being, the source of all other beings and indeed everything else in existence. One might take issue with this assertion, but a careful analysis of the facts should put the mind at rest. The Sanskrit word Krishna (Krsna) simply means ‘all attractive’, which surely must be God’s main attribute. All beauty, power, wealth, knowledge, wisdom and whatever else we find attractive have their source in him. This is what it means to be great, which most people will agree is the right word to apply to God.

Prabhupada’s book ‘Krsna: The Supreme Personality of Godhead’ shows that greatness in all of its splendour. A summary of the tenth canto of the Bhagavata Purana, it chronicles the activities of Krishna when he appeared on earth 5000 years ago. From his mystical 'birth' in the sacred township of Mathura, to his life in the celestial city of Dvaraka lying within the ocean, we hear of many wondrous deeds. Great demons are slain, barbarian armies of many millions are destroyed, and the hand of many a beautiful princess is won. But over and above all of this are the divine displays of love between Krishna and his devotees. It is said that God will reciprocate with us in whatever way we desire, and this is demonstrated by Krishna as he takes on his many roles. Whether acting as a delightful infant, a perfect son, a dear friend, a dashing lover or a mighty hero, Krishna’s focus is always on pleasing his devotees. Although he is God he makes it clear that nothing gives him more pleasure than to serve his own servants. In these accounts we discover that God is not some old bearded man sitting in heaven, passing judgment on us sinful wretches. Far from it, he is eternally youthful, the very essence of grace and beauty, of gentility, humility, kindness, sweetness and love. Of course, he can also be pretty fierce and unassailable. It all depends on how one approaches him. He is ready for anything. Those who want to fight with him will get the opportunity. Krishna will go along with that quite happily, but don’t expect your head to remain on your shoulders for very long. God’s greatness includes very great power.

I have read this book many times and found something new each time. Deep, transcendental knowledge fills every page. I won’t say it is not a challenging read. Prabhupada laces the narrative with much philosophy to help us understand the profound significance of Krishna’s activities. Really Krishna has no interest in material enjoyment or politics or anything else that generally moves us mortals. His only interest is divine love, giving it to us and receiving it back. This is the secret of understanding Krishna. Each of us are meant for that love and we can begin to experience it as we turn these pages. Gradually our envy of God is dispelled as we realise that better than trying to take his place is to become his loving servant. Then he gives himself to us. It is true that God cannot be conquered by any power, but he agrees to be conquered by love, the greatest power.

This is a truly wonderful work, but to better understand the philosophical concepts it espouses I would also recommend that you read Prabhupada’s Bhagavad-gita As It Is. Then you can dive deeply into the divine ocean of Krishna's transcendental pastimes, and leave behind this mundane sphere of struggle and pain.
Profile Image for Abhigya.
28 reviews5 followers
May 24, 2020
This book is among the very few childhood books which I can recollect, my grandpa used to read the stories to me. This illustrated version provides you with great details about the life of lord Krishna and other characters around him. You'll definitely enjoy the stories and the pictures even more.
Profile Image for Jane.
451 reviews
October 31, 2015
Summary study of the 10 Canto of the Srimad B.
If you feel intimidated by the 44 volume complete set this is a nice
place to start. There are 1 volume, 2 volume and 3 volume editions of
this out there. I have a two volume set.
Several stories are similar to what you will find in other religious
traditions.
Some stories could be seen as "miraculous" or mythological to the modern reader.
Profile Image for Dev.
81 reviews1 follower
October 13, 2016
Another masterpiece of Srila Prabhupada... so beautifully he describes the pastimes of Lord. It can be read as many times as one wishes to. Best book for a devotee who wants to know God and his pastimes. The best thing is that it comes from Prabhupada and therefore it's perfect, there is no making of any stories in this.
Profile Image for Ceejay.
1 review
July 11, 2018
Good weight to hold up my video games and Bible.
Profile Image for Sandeep Patel.
Author 10 books8 followers
October 2, 2019
I’m so glad this book exist. This book is solely the primary book for new generation readers to learn about Krishna before the Bhagavad-Gita. I heard stories when I was young but names of people always went a miss. This book gives the story of Krishna justice from media and films. If you want to know about Sri Krsna from birth to death then this is the book to do for. And if you wish to learn about Bhagavad-Gita along with what is in this book then go for my Bhagavan’s Guitar. Two excellent books about the Supreme Godhead in one.

I read this book to make notes for my book so I never really got down to just sit and read. Nevertheless I understood the stories and enjoyed the auspicious actions of the Lord. The transcendent paths and the roads to righteousness no matter if one is blue or not. I am glad to have this book on my shelf and thankful for the existence of the book.
4 reviews
Read
January 20, 2017
For those that follow Hinduism, this is the story of the most supreme god of all, Krsna. It is set up as a literary style but it actually gives the true story of the Personality of Godhead. Set about 5,000 years ago, Krsna was the 8th son of Devaki and Vasudev, and he was destined to kill Kamsa, the demoniac elder brother of Devaki. The 7th son, Balram, was the incarnate of Adi Sesha and Krsna is the incarnate of Vishnu.
8 reviews1 follower
April 18, 2015
a big fan of dis book... if u want to know about krishna..den one must read dis book... its a kinda mystical experience...all d leelas of sri krishna are beautifully portrayed...
how nandlal saved vrindavan.. mischievous kanha stole d heart of gopis n how dwarkadhish helped arjuna...all are beautifully explained ...again thanx to sril prabhupada :)
Profile Image for Vijay Dhameliya.
32 reviews21 followers
March 2, 2015
Beautiful narration of pastimes of Lord Krishna. Shrila Prabhupada narrates each pastime of Krishna with vivid explanation of science and lessons hidden in them. Anyone in doubt or confusion about Krishna must read this book to eradicate them.
Profile Image for Sucharita.
155 reviews9 followers
April 27, 2015
Actually not. It's absolutely an unreadable book.
Profile Image for Yoganand Kulkarni.
Author 2 books1 follower
August 1, 2017
This Book Is Very High Dose Of Love To Krishna.
You will lost in flow of language and in fist sitting no one can left this book before 100 pages.
Delight!

I bought this one in Tirupati ISKON
Profile Image for Panchal Navin.
2 reviews1 follower
July 23, 2018
More and More you know about Krishna More and More you develop Krishna Consciousness. That is the aim and perfection of life.
4 reviews
March 15, 2022
It compiles of all the stories of lord Krishna which we have heard while growing up but the stories are elaborated telling us why the particular even occured
Profile Image for C. M. Craig.
85 reviews2 followers
March 3, 2025
This is a beautiful compendium of Krsna stories. I enjoyed it immensely.

However, I had to remove a star because some of Prabhupada’s commentary is off-base which is unsurprising. Prabhupada is the founder of the notorious cult ISKCON. While I’m sure present-day ISKCON is filled with many well meaning devotees, the organization has a history of horrific child abuse and sexism.

Some of this did come through in the commentary (in particular, sexist ideas). Prabhupada also refers to major deities like Brahma and Shiva as “demigods” (rude), and he constantly derides people of other paths as “unintelligent.” For instance, he considers the worship of any other deity besides Krsna to be pointless. If I wanted to participate in that kind of rigid fundamentalism, I would never have left the Christianity of my childhood.

My two cents: Anything that helps you to be kinder, calmer, more resilient, and a force for good in this world is the right spiritual practice. If that is chanting Hare Krsna, wonderful. If it’s metta meditation, equally wonderful. If it’s Bhakti, or prayer, or service, or loving Christ, then go do that. If a practice doesn’t change you for the better, then do something else.

It’s all the body of Krsna.
Profile Image for Souvik Paul.
203 reviews4 followers
January 21, 2025
Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead: A Summary Study of Srimad-Bhagavatam's Tenth Canto by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada takes a deep exploration into one of the most debated, divine sections within the Srimad Bhagavatam. Tenth Canto Bhagavatam is dedicated to the life and deeds of Lord Krishna representing the vivid expression of his divine lila or pastimes. This book by Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), offers a comprehensive summary and commentary on the Tenth Canto. Thus, it will be accessible to practitioners of Bhakti Yoga and newcomers alike in their understanding of the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavatam.

In this review, we will examine the strengths and some possible limitations of this work.

Strengths of the Book
1. Divine Glimpses of Krishna's Activities Prabhupada's Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead narrates Lord Krishna's divine activities that are highlighted in the Tenth Canto of the Bhagavatam. Krishna's miraculous life- His childhood, miraculous events to become a divine teacher and savior- has been described very explicitly and richly. The book explains each significant episode, including his childhood in Vrindavana, his interactions with the Gopis (milkmaids), his role in the Mahabharata, and the context of the Bhagavad Gita, all while focusing on Krishna's nature as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

Prabhupada explains that Krishna is not only a historical or mythological figure but the absolute truth, the source of all creation, and the essence of love and devotion. His explanations really deepen the reader's understanding of Krishna's multifaceted nature and his role in the world's divine plan.

2. Clear and Accessible Language
Accessible yet deeply philosophical, the writing from Prabhupada is simple to read through, especially for those unfamiliar with the complex concepts of Vedanta or the Bhagavatam. His clarifying commentary dissects the philosophical ideas forming Krishna's divine acts and relationship in simple, yet profound words regarding their spiritual value. Whether discussing the transcendental quality of Krishna or his relationship with devotees, even readers without an exceptionally deep background in Vedic scriptures can easily grasp understanding.

3. Practical and Spiritual Relevance
One of the most salient features of this book is that Prabhupada connects Krishna's life stories to practical spiritual teachings. In fact, he has given a practical lesson in surrendering to the divine by talking about the well-known story where Krishna lifted Govardhana Hill and showed people that God was always there to protect his devotees, irrespective of the challenges he had to face. These teachings are not presented as mere historical anecdotes but as living lessons, providing guidance for modern readers seeking spiritual wisdom and devotional practice.

Additionally, Prabhupada consistently emphasizes the importance of bhakti (devotion) as the highest form of worship. The book teaches that, through love and devotion to Krishna, one can attain spiritual liberation and fulfill their ultimate purpose in life.

4. Comprehensive Summary of the Tenth Canto
Prabhupada does a remarkable job of summarizing the vast content of the Tenth Canto. The section covers a wide range of stories, from Krishna's miraculous birth to his heroic feats, and Prabhupada's focus on key themes like divine love, the battle between good and evil, and the importance of devotion allows the reader to gain a well-rounded understanding of this crucial part of the Bhagavatam. This is an exceptional resource for those interested in more serious study of the Tenth Canto or just a quick, insightful overview.

5. Focus on Devotion and Bhakti Yoga
In this book, Prabhupada encourages people to embrace devotion as a means for spiritual enlightenment. The book makes it clear that true liberation in life is nothing but surrender to the divine by pure love, exemplified by selfless love showered on Krishna by his devotees. Again, Prabhupada attempts to connect Bhagavad Gita teachings to the life of Krishna as reflected in Bhagavatam, which also explains how the practice of Bhakti Yoga stands on devotion and surrender.

Weaknesses of the Book
1. Strong Theological Focus
Although the book focuses on Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead, it is the essence of the message, and readers who approach it from a secular or non-devotional standpoint may find the book's religious tone overwhelming or one-sided. For those who are not familiar with or are not interested in the theology of Krishna consciousness, the book may seem too centered on devotional practices and beliefs, thus limiting its appeal to a wider audience.

Prabhupada's presentation of Krishna as the only true God might also seem exclusive to readers of other faiths or philosophies, as it does not delve into a comparative spiritual framework or explore other religious viewpoints in detail. Those who seek a more pluralistic or universal approach to divinity might find the book's message somewhat rigid.

2. Simplification of Philosophical Concepts
While the book is understandable, some of the deeper philosophical ideas from the Bhagavatam are dumbed down a bit, allowing them to be easier to digest by a broad audience. This is good for a layman but would feel somewhat watered down for a more advanced student of Vedanta or Vedic philosophy. His explanations are easy to understand and can sometimes lack nuance found in more amplified commentaries by other scholars or practitioners.

3. One Outlook
The book is written mainly from the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, in which Krishna is worshiped as the supreme deity. Although this is a very valuable perspective for those who are studying that tradition, it may not provide much for readers coming from other spiritual paths. The work does little to no exploration of alternative views within the framework of Hinduism or from outside that may leave some readers yearning for a more balanced engagement into Krishna's role on a broader philosophical context.

Conclusion
Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead: A Summary Study of Srimad-Bhagavatam's Tenth Canto by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is a must-read for those who want to know about Lord Krishna's divine pastimes and the central teachings of the Bhagavatam. It provides a clear, accessible summary of the Tenth Canto, making the stories and philosophies of Krishna's life more accessible to modern readers.

Such inspiration emanates from this book because Prabhupada dwells upon the importance of devotion, nature of divine love, and practical application of Bhakti Yoga in everyday life, making it a very helpful book for spiritual seekers. But, on the other hand, its theological orientation might not suit every reader, mainly those who look for rather more scholarly or comparative approach.

It's a book invaluable for readers looking for a more intimate connection to Krishna and introduction into the core principles of Krishna consciousness. It serves as an educational resource and as a devotional text, bringing timeless wisdom into how one may live a life of love, surrender, and devotion.

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3 reviews
March 7, 2020
It's past times of Lord Shri Krishna as it is. Nowadays it's common to see people interpret our scripture in their own way, but Bhakivedanda Swami in his writing ensures that the original meaning and message isn't lost. Taken from the 10th Canto of Srimad Bhagavatham, the book narrates the Lord's past time like a story for anyone who wishes to know him. This is must read for those who wish to read about Lord krsna and his past times.
Profile Image for Oxiborick.
110 reviews9 followers
July 20, 2019
Yo lo titularía "Las aventuritas de Krisha y su hermano Balarama". Es un libro que por su título da miedo de seriedad, pero es todo un gozo.
En la cultura hindú existen los puranas, que son varias "enciclopedias" antiquísimas sobre muchos temas. El Srimad Bhagavatam es un purana. Este purana se divide en 12 libros, o "cantos", sobre temas espirituales. El Canto 10 está dedicado a la vida de Krishna (sus pasatiempos, anécdotas, hazañas, esposas, guerras) y este libro es la interpretación de Bhaktivedanta Swami, un maestro espiritual, sobre el Canto 10.
No es canto, per se, es una compilación de historias contadas a manera de fábula súper entretenidas que dan mucha luz sobre la vida cotidiana de Krishna en una de sus reencarnaciones en esta tierra.
Un buen libro de cuentos (hasta para niños) con mucho trasfondo espiritual; no precisamente sobre Dios, sino sobre la espiritualidad en el respeto a los mayores, en el descanso, en el amor, en tener enemigos, en cumplir nuestras promesas... y cosas así.
El libro tiene pocas ilustraciones y es una lástima porque debería estar lleno de ellas, las historias dan licencia.
Profile Image for Yash Rathor.
93 reviews
May 31, 2025
Perhaps books are attractive😍, hold your attention from the first page till the last one. Books are mysterious👀, just want to know what will be next?. Books are romantic 💞, manifest the union of a man and woman. I have more than 10 genres and can cover the 2000 character of this space from the explanation of the books but I will not do this.😎

But, There is only one book that makes you feel that the owner of the world is so handsome, wealthy, beautiful, famous, very powerful (even the collective strength of Avengers is just equal to the lighter spark in front of the sun's heat), so knowledgeable and the greatest renunciation.

Who will fear, depressed, feel lonely, anxious and all the sufferings of the world after knowing about HIM.

You will only get Peace and Happiness. 😌
Profile Image for Paul Mamani.
162 reviews87 followers
May 22, 2019
I enjoyed the 18 chapeters on this Ancient book
The first contact with this Indian Opus Domun was years ago when I found in litle format in Spanish version on streets in Lima.

I love this poetical and filosophical contents..."It´s eassier content the wind opening the arms than to control our mind..."
I grew up into an Andean-Catholic family reading the bible ....no I complement my principles and habits with its contents.

And it was the beginning point to travel, comment and read more about the Mahabharata.
Profile Image for Atul Verma.
35 reviews44 followers
July 11, 2017
It's an awesome book which explains the past times of Lord Shri Krishna. I really love this book. It enhances the Krishna Consciousness. I would like to highly recommend this book to increase your devotion and love for krishna
Profile Image for Sheryl.
334 reviews9 followers
February 2, 2020
I used to check this out of the Elyria Public Library because George Harrison wrote the intro and because the illustrations are beautiful. I still love Krishna stories and I still love hanging out with Krishnas, so long as no one tries to pull any misogynist bullshit on me.
Profile Image for Shreya Agrawal.
15 reviews
November 21, 2021
OhmyKrishna! Where do I start? This book is Srila Prabhupada's blessings in physical form. I beg you readers, you're making a HUGE MISTAKE by not reading this book. Just order it right away. Know your God. Know him to love him.

Hare Krishna!!
Profile Image for David Chmelik.
113 reviews3 followers
paused-or-will-not-finish
April 25, 2016
This is medium-length version of the Bhagavata Purana, and 'tis well-illustrated, but it might just be part one (childhood) of two.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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