key term - Hare Krishna

Definition

Hare Krishna refers to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), which is a religious movement founded in the 1960s that promotes the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and emphasizes devotion to Lord Krishna. This movement is significant in the context of globalized culture after 1900, as it reflects the blending of Eastern spirituality with Western values and has contributed to the spread of Hinduism outside of its traditional geographic boundaries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hare Krishna movement gained popularity in the West during the 1960s counterculture, appealing to many seeking spiritual fulfillment outside conventional religions.
2. ISKCON emphasizes a lifestyle centered on vegetarianism, regular chanting of mantras, and devotional practices aimed at cultivating a loving relationship with Lord Krishna.
3. The movement promotes outreach through public chanting, festivals, and food distribution programs, known as 'Food for Life,' to engage with diverse communities.
4. Hare Krishna's teachings encourage a holistic approach to life, integrating spiritual practice with daily activities, thereby appealing to a global audience seeking meaning.
5. The influence of Hare Krishna has extended beyond religion, impacting music, art, and philosophy, as many Western musicians and artists have incorporated its themes into their work.

Review Questions

• How did the Hare Krishna movement reflect the blending of Eastern spirituality with Western culture in the 20th century?
  • The Hare Krishna movement emerged in the 1960s during a time when many Westerners were exploring alternative spiritual paths. By emphasizing devotion to Lord Krishna and promoting practices such as kirtan and bhakti, ISKCON attracted individuals seeking deeper meaning outside traditional Western religions. This blending is evident in how Hare Krishna festivals and chants have been embraced in Western societies, highlighting a growing interest in Eastern philosophies.
• Evaluate the social impact of the Hare Krishna movement on globalized culture after 1900, particularly regarding vegetarianism and communal living.
  • The Hare Krishna movement has significantly influenced global culture by popularizing vegetarianism as part of a spiritual lifestyle. Through its emphasis on non-violence and compassion towards all living beings, ISKCON has contributed to the wider acceptance of vegetarianism beyond just religious circles. Additionally, its communal living practices foster a sense of community among followers, promoting shared values and lifestyles that resonate with individuals seeking alternatives to mainstream society.
• Assess how the practices and beliefs of Hare Krishna have transformed or challenged contemporary notions of spirituality in a globalized world.
  • Hare Krishna's practices and beliefs challenge conventional notions of spirituality by promoting a direct relationship with the divine through personal devotion rather than through intermediaries. In a globalized world where traditional religious structures are often questioned, ISKCON provides an alternative approach that emphasizes experiential spirituality through practices like chanting and meditation. This transformation encourages individuals to seek authenticity in their spiritual journeys, making the teachings of Hare Krishna relevant across diverse cultural contexts.

Related terms

Bhakti: A devotional form of worship and love for God, central to Hindu practices and especially emphasized in the teachings of ISKCON.

Kirtan: A form of congregational chanting or singing of hymns and mantras that is a significant aspect of Hare Krishna practices, fostering communal worship.

Hindu Revivalism: A movement aimed at revitalizing and promoting Hindu traditions, often in response to colonialism and modernization, which has influenced groups like ISKCON.