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The Science of Self-Realization
This collection of articles by Srila Prabhupada from Back to Godhead magazine covers knowledge of the soul and the practice of bhakti-yoga.
These interviews, lectures, and essays cover topics such as the goal of human life, seeking a true spiritual teacher, reincarnation, super-consciousness, Krishna and Christ, and spiritual solutions to today's social and economic problems.
These interviews, lectures, and essays cover topics such as the goal of human life, seeking a true spiritual teacher, reincarnation, super-consciousness, Krishna and Christ, and spiritual solutions to today's social and economic problems.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1977
392 people are currently reading
2507 people want to read
About the author
A.C. Bhaktivedanta
815 books706 followersHis 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.
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
November 10, 2009
This book is my last remaining hope for falling in love with God (again?). Christianity has destroyed my image of anything related to spirituality- this book is the only comfort I have left. I believe it may very well hold the only true message humanity ever needed to know of God.
January 26, 2010
There was an interesting story to how I came to own this book which is the only reason I was actually able to struggle through the half of it I read. One year at the Warped tour I was approached by a man with who was wearing really strange pants and he had this funny top-knot haircut. He called himself a monk and had a back pack full of these books 'The Science of self-realization'. I was touched by how he insisted that the book was free with any donation I would make to whatever church, but in the end I did give him five bucks, the printed cover price. Categorized Eastern Philosophy / Meditation / Yoga, I was just really didn't know what I had in my hands. I trusted that for this Spiritualist to invoke the word of Science, he might have something new to say. As chance would have it I was soon to depart on a crazy journey to a foreign, non English speaking country and I choose this as the one and only book to bring with. I struggled through it waiting to find something that would reflect my idea of scientific method being applied to religion in some way... honestly I don't know what I thought I would find. What I did find was His Divine Grace insisting that the only path to enlightenment was to recite his chants and invoke the words in his language to 'Praise God'. Why must it be vocalized. My creator is so advanced he can see right into my through my thoughts, into my true intentions. He also tended to claim many crazy things were a proven fact and offered very few sources that were not in a language I didn't understand.
Basically I'm just a bit upset because I was sold an incredible story by a self proclaimed monk in clown pants. Then I took this book to a place were I had nothing else to read and I was stuck with it. There were some amazing hints on the cover that could have averted this confusion, like the size of the text used for the word Science being so small and 'His Divine Grace''s Self-Realization being so big.
Basically I'm just a bit upset because I was sold an incredible story by a self proclaimed monk in clown pants. Then I took this book to a place were I had nothing else to read and I was stuck with it. There were some amazing hints on the cover that could have averted this confusion, like the size of the text used for the word Science being so small and 'His Divine Grace''s Self-Realization being so big.
December 9, 2012
After the first chapter, this book becomes insanely redundant. If you would like a gist, take note: You are not God. You could never be God, so don't even fool yourself (as if anyone would want that kind of responsibility anyway!). As opposed to the Golden Age, which of course took place millions of years ago (where humans had a lifespan of 100,000 years, no less!), we are living in a degraded age (Kali-yuga, age of quarrel, confusion, etc...) and it will only get worse, so do not waste your precious time trying to figure out this filthy, petty material nature of ours'! The solution: drop everything and chant Hare Krshna, Hare Krshna, Krshna Krshna, Hare Hare; Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare. The end.
P.S. -
I wish I was exaggerating.
P.S. -
I wish I was exaggerating.
October 4, 2009
I had great expectations for this book and for this famous "guru". But then I did not like either much at all. A couple examples of the deal breakers:
"So the difference between others and us is that we are the only movement that can actually teach one how to know God and how to love him."
I'm interested in several others movements and gurus that base their teachings largely on the ancient Bhagavad-gita, but this is the only one I've found that claims to have a unique truth. Any person in any moment can find God, with, without, or even despite any spiritual leader. Like the Pope to Christianity, I think he is hiding or missing the point of the spirituality.
Then after (somewhat legitmately) criticizing major religions for accidentally steering people away from God, and criticizing other gurus for letting their followers worship them like a God (which is where all religions end up wrong if they are not vigilant against it), a reporter is questioning him about the flash and opulance in which he sometimes travels. He responds, "God travels in a golden car. If the disciples offer the spiritual master an ordinary motorcar, it would not be sufficient, because the spiritual master has to be treated like God. If God comes to your home, will you bring Him an ordinary motorcar - or will you arrange for a golden car?"
Sorry man, that kind of God is not allowed in my car or near my house.
"So the difference between others and us is that we are the only movement that can actually teach one how to know God and how to love him."
I'm interested in several others movements and gurus that base their teachings largely on the ancient Bhagavad-gita, but this is the only one I've found that claims to have a unique truth. Any person in any moment can find God, with, without, or even despite any spiritual leader. Like the Pope to Christianity, I think he is hiding or missing the point of the spirituality.
Then after (somewhat legitmately) criticizing major religions for accidentally steering people away from God, and criticizing other gurus for letting their followers worship them like a God (which is where all religions end up wrong if they are not vigilant against it), a reporter is questioning him about the flash and opulance in which he sometimes travels. He responds, "God travels in a golden car. If the disciples offer the spiritual master an ordinary motorcar, it would not be sufficient, because the spiritual master has to be treated like God. If God comes to your home, will you bring Him an ordinary motorcar - or will you arrange for a golden car?"
Sorry man, that kind of God is not allowed in my car or near my house.
December 23, 2018
Finally managed to get around to finishing this after being on hiatus for quite some time. I am still a 'fan' of Prabhupada and his way of taking rather complex philosophical points and managing to present them to a broader public without compromising the message.
I look forward to dive deeper into the more esoteric of his writings, having now read most of his introductory books. Of particular interest will be his commented translation of Srimad Bhagavatam and Caitanya Caritamrta.
I look forward to dive deeper into the more esoteric of his writings, having now read most of his introductory books. Of particular interest will be his commented translation of Srimad Bhagavatam and Caitanya Caritamrta.
August 7, 2012
If he could have stopped being a sexist ass for one second I might have liked this book more. I could resonate with much of what he said but he basically thinks women are twits that need a man to guide them. I yelled, "kiss my ass!" At the book, a lot!
September 24, 2012
Can you explain everything in life with an analogy? I think not. This book is mumbo jumbo.
November 29, 2012
I love the strong, cutting, definitive tone of Prabhupada when he is making his points, even if his use of English might not be palatable for Westerners such as ourselves. You can see that he is a devotee that has dedicated his life to his cause and, for amateur spiritualists such I myself, I of course cannot relate to his dedication, but I just kept an open mind, digested what I could at the time and left the rest to hang in suspense until further insights would come (if ever...)
Prabhupada, in his series of presentations, cuts right through all our wishy-washy, relativistic mentality about spirituality, in which we want to have our cakes and eat them too. We want to be spiritual, but we don't want to have to do to much with God, unless we come to believe that We are God, like some charlatan gurus try to flatter us, quoting partial understandings of Indian philosophy. We don't want to DO anything for God and rationalize it by saying that he doesn't need anything, he's God, duh! But then Prabhupada very nicely explains in the book how our senses, if not used in connection with spiritual purposes, will definitely used in materialistic ones, polutting our mind which in turn pollutes our soul. And doing stuff for God is not for his benefit, but for ours.
Prabhupada, like in all his books, is giving it to us straight, and, although I was struck by some very strong statements, upon reflections I found truth in them, like the way we treat animals for instance. I especially liked when he started a lecture given at MIT with the rhetorical question: Where is the department for the study of the soul? Not that takes some gall :)
After all, when you come from India to the West at 60-something after suffering 2 heart attacks on the ship and have very little time to spread your message you'd want to get right down to it.
Prabhupada, in his series of presentations, cuts right through all our wishy-washy, relativistic mentality about spirituality, in which we want to have our cakes and eat them too. We want to be spiritual, but we don't want to have to do to much with God, unless we come to believe that We are God, like some charlatan gurus try to flatter us, quoting partial understandings of Indian philosophy. We don't want to DO anything for God and rationalize it by saying that he doesn't need anything, he's God, duh! But then Prabhupada very nicely explains in the book how our senses, if not used in connection with spiritual purposes, will definitely used in materialistic ones, polutting our mind which in turn pollutes our soul. And doing stuff for God is not for his benefit, but for ours.
Prabhupada, like in all his books, is giving it to us straight, and, although I was struck by some very strong statements, upon reflections I found truth in them, like the way we treat animals for instance. I especially liked when he started a lecture given at MIT with the rhetorical question: Where is the department for the study of the soul? Not that takes some gall :)
After all, when you come from India to the West at 60-something after suffering 2 heart attacks on the ship and have very little time to spread your message you'd want to get right down to it.
June 9, 2021
This book will polarise people for sure! Prabhupada is a No-Nonsense spiritual master, it's as simple as that. If his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur were the author of this book, there would be an even stronger response from the critics who cannot taste or perceive the deep philosophy contained within these pages. Srila Prabhupada merely quotes the Vedic scriptures and elaborates on the meaning in relation to life and values back in the 1960 and 1970s when Indian gurus and eastern philosophy became somewhat fashionable. His answers to the questions posed by 'intelligent' people are both honest and straightforward, without ambiguity and room for speculation. Those persons who enjoy the comfort of speculating on what is or isn't God or if the 'Big Bang' is supreme will certainly feel challenged by this illuminating piece of literature. I for one, found it both challenging and enlightening when I read it for the first time in April 1978. My message to the critics of the SSR is keep it on your bookshelf and read it again in ten years time and see how you react to the cutting words of a true sadhu...
March 12, 2012
The book is a total mess.
My understanding of Hinduism and Bhagavad Gita is contradictory to the teachings of this book.
The author stresses on few points all over the book. They are
1) The only way to reach God is to chant the mantra.
2) God exists and people who deny it are rascals.
3) Spiritual leaders who claim themselves God are frauds and rascals.
These points are redundant all over thee book.
The only good point I took from this book is "We live in a materialistic world. We should get away from it".
My understanding of Hinduism and Bhagavad Gita is contradictory to the teachings of this book.
The author stresses on few points all over the book. They are
1) The only way to reach God is to chant the mantra.
2) God exists and people who deny it are rascals.
3) Spiritual leaders who claim themselves God are frauds and rascals.
These points are redundant all over thee book.
The only good point I took from this book is "We live in a materialistic world. We should get away from it".
December 27, 2021
Completely disappointed in this book, which could better be described as an attempt of religious authoritarianism.
Narrow-minded and absolutely not scientifically based. Sexist, irrational, contradictory, out-dated, and repetitive.
All the “facts” are just the author’s interpretations of Bhagavad Gita, aiming to manipulate the reader into believing and practicing nonsense. I couldn’t even finish it.
It is a mockery of science and independent thinking.
Narrow-minded and absolutely not scientifically based. Sexist, irrational, contradictory, out-dated, and repetitive.
All the “facts” are just the author’s interpretations of Bhagavad Gita, aiming to manipulate the reader into believing and practicing nonsense. I couldn’t even finish it.
It is a mockery of science and independent thinking.
February 18, 2008
I think the author is sort of narrow in his views. Maybe fundamentalist, but it is very interesting to hear this point of view and that is precisely why I selected this book.
March 17, 2021
This book changed my life, I stuck with it and listened to what this old monk ( prabhupada) had to say, although I never became an actual devotee I really valued the wealth of Vedic knowledge being translated from ancient Sanskrit texts concerning the science of the soul, it’s absolutely immense and explains the difference between Inferior Material energy, such as the material cosmic manifestation (the universe) and the false identity of the material body to the Superior Spiritual energy of the Super soul ( God) and us, the individual spirit soul which is our true identity,
After reading this book I followed up and read the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagvatm and the intellectual wealth of knowledge I have obtained is going to serve me for life,
I overlooked some fantastical parts at first as simply mythological wishy washy parts and I think this helped me get more from it than most,
If we all start believing that snakes talk then we wouldn’t get past the first chapter of genesis in the Bible, but instead if we take it as a framework to get the bigger picture and intended meaning, then things start making more sense.
I’m forever indebted to Swami Prabhupada and so grateful he shared his ancient knowledge from India with us, otherwise we in the west would have less than we have now, and that isn’t much.
We live in a vortex of vibration and every thought activates a vibration within us, what could be more noble than Bhakti Yoga, where we are vibrating in unison with the creator through an eternally reciprocal loving relationship.
Hare Krisna
After reading this book I followed up and read the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagvatm and the intellectual wealth of knowledge I have obtained is going to serve me for life,
I overlooked some fantastical parts at first as simply mythological wishy washy parts and I think this helped me get more from it than most,
If we all start believing that snakes talk then we wouldn’t get past the first chapter of genesis in the Bible, but instead if we take it as a framework to get the bigger picture and intended meaning, then things start making more sense.
I’m forever indebted to Swami Prabhupada and so grateful he shared his ancient knowledge from India with us, otherwise we in the west would have less than we have now, and that isn’t much.
We live in a vortex of vibration and every thought activates a vibration within us, what could be more noble than Bhakti Yoga, where we are vibrating in unison with the creator through an eternally reciprocal loving relationship.
Hare Krisna
July 18, 2021
The premise of the book is that since truth and knowledge are good and since western science presents theories on truth and knowledge, science is limited--on the other hand, "God" is omniscient and therefore "Krishna Consciousness" (i.e. interbeing with Krishna) is the most precise kind of science.
Here's the issue: the arguments for the book are founded on the author's INTERPRETATIONS of the Bhagavad Gita. He does not let the reader approach the source text without at least 3x or 4x his amount of commentary, which deviates from the source material. This is problematic because it gives an incredible amount of undeserved authority to the author, who through rhetorical techniques is trying to get the reader to discard a system of critical thinking and reasoning.
As far as style and tastes go this is a dreadful and manipulative work. Vulnerable people who are looking for meaning in life could very easily buy into this book because, from a technical perspective, the rhetoric in the commentary is masterfully crafted in a horrific point where Madison Avenue meets St. Peter's Square.
Read the Bhagavad Gita yourself and form your own opinions. Read what other people have written about it especially from outside religious sects and institutions. Don't give one mortal man the power to determine your world view.
Here's the issue: the arguments for the book are founded on the author's INTERPRETATIONS of the Bhagavad Gita. He does not let the reader approach the source text without at least 3x or 4x his amount of commentary, which deviates from the source material. This is problematic because it gives an incredible amount of undeserved authority to the author, who through rhetorical techniques is trying to get the reader to discard a system of critical thinking and reasoning.
As far as style and tastes go this is a dreadful and manipulative work. Vulnerable people who are looking for meaning in life could very easily buy into this book because, from a technical perspective, the rhetoric in the commentary is masterfully crafted in a horrific point where Madison Avenue meets St. Peter's Square.
Read the Bhagavad Gita yourself and form your own opinions. Read what other people have written about it especially from outside religious sects and institutions. Don't give one mortal man the power to determine your world view.
April 13, 2016
I really like how Prabhupada, always comes with a practical approach when trying to solve material problems such as the world hunger problem. He also uses very strong vocabulary in his effort to explain how getting a spiritual master and obtaining a love for god can help you in the long run. What I like is that before he became a yogi,he was a chemist who had a small business and everything. But when his business failed and all he had was taken away from him. He took shelter of a spiritual master to find guidance. Similarly in the book he describes this as meditating and finding your inner peace.
The only bad thing about this book that it is kind of confusing for non-Hindus to read so it is advised that you read this only after contemplating the question of the meaning of life and wondering why are we here in this material world where everything is temporary? It takes deep understanding which i am still trying to possess. Overall I needed this book to pull me out of hard times in America when the economy had wiped me out.
The only bad thing about this book that it is kind of confusing for non-Hindus to read so it is advised that you read this only after contemplating the question of the meaning of life and wondering why are we here in this material world where everything is temporary? It takes deep understanding which i am still trying to possess. Overall I needed this book to pull me out of hard times in America when the economy had wiped me out.
April 19, 2012
Strongly recommending it to NO ONE. BELIEVE ME. IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SELF REALIZATION OR SPIRITUALITY.
April 26, 2023
I really tried to like this book. I had recently come back from a silent meditation retreat & wanted to learn more about Buddhism. I found this in my personal library (not sure how I got it) and gave it a try. I hated it because it presents “the truth” of consciousness in abstract and ambiguous terms with no evidence or support. Then calls it Science…? In fact, the first few chapters were written as if “this is the truth and you should accept it because it’s known by the authority. Don’t try to question it, it is what it is. It is a science.” But then the science isn’t described? At least the western principles of scientific hypothesis, experiments, observations, interpretation, inference, and analysis— none of it are here. If there are eastern understandings of science of soul, then by all means, state your case. But that wasn’t found here. I am a scientist but I don’t believe everything in life can be described neatly in scientific phenomena; I’m quite “hippy dippy (as some may say)” but even I couldn’t get behind this. Science is ever changing and if the author wanted to claim something as the truth, they should’ve properly explained in a non-authoritarian voice.
November 5, 2013
I love this book. I read it a few years ago, but I liked it so much I bought three copies. I loved His Divine Grace's conversations and arguments with the people he spoke to, his argument for vegetarianism is straight forward, stating that animals have the same functions as humans. He recommends chanting the mahamantra for happiness and union with God as part of the practice of Bhakti yoga. He tells us that Bhakti yoga is the practice of devotional service to Lord Krishna who is God. Great book that inspired me to start chanting.
December 18, 2018
What is the Hari Krishna movement, or Krishna conscience? How does one devote their life to loving Krishna, and who brought the movement to the United States. These questions are answered within this book. You don't to know anything about the movement to find useful information to adapt to your own life.
January 6, 2015
Not only this book makes one realize the most important questions of life but also answers those question with great logical reasoning.
July 5, 2019
A must read for everyone interested in having a spiritual life!
July 11, 2023
A POSTHUMOUS COLLECTION OF SWAMI’S LECTURES, WRITINGS, INTERVIEWS
The back cover of this book states, “In this book you will discover the timeless science that great teachers have spoken for millennia. [The book] opens up the secrets of the self within, nature and the universe, and the Supreme Self within and without. Here the world’s most distinguished teacher of the science of self-realization talks about meditating and practicing yoga in the modern age, gaining liberation from the law of karma, achieving superconsciousness, and much more. In all the interviews, lectures, essays and letters chosen for this special book… Swami Prabhupada speaks with startling clarity and power. He proves just how relevant the science of self-realization is to today’s world and your own life.”
The publisher’s Introduction explains, “For the enlightenment of human society, Srila Prabhupada produced some eighty volumes of translations and summary studies of India’s great spiritual classics… Also in 1944, Srila Prabhupada single-handedly launched a magazine called ‘Back to Godhead,’ which today continues to bring the timeless science of self-realization to the modern world. Nearly all the interviews, lectures, essays, and letters chosen for [this book] first appeared in ‘Back to Godhead.’ In these pages Srila Prabhupada presents the same message… of ancient India’s Vedic literatures… He transmits in modern English the same timeless knowledge that other great self-realized teachers have spoken for millennia---knowledge that opens up the secrets of the self within us, nature and the universe, and the Supreme Self within and without…
“Among the thirty-six selections chosen for this special book, we hear Srila Prabhupada’s moving poem upon his arrival in America, his exchange with a noted cardiologist on ‘soul research,’ his revelations to London Broadcasting Company on reincarnation, his telling remarks to the London Times on real and false ‘gurus,’ his dialogue with a German Benedictine monk on Krsna and Christ, his insights on superconsciousness and the law of karma, his conversation with a leading Russian scholar on spiritual communication, and his intimate talk with his disciples on the sham of modern science.”
He states in the opening essay, “The very important Krsna consciousness movement is meant to save human society from spiritual death. At present human society if being misled by leaders who are blind, for they do not know the aim and objective of human life, which is self-realization and the reestablishment of our lost relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This is the missing point. The Krsna consciousness movement is trying to enlighten humanity in this important manner.” (Pg. 2)
In an interview, he observes, “Christ consciousness is also Krsna consciousness, but because at present people do not follow the rules and regulations of Christianity---the commandments of Jesus Christ---they do not come to the standard of God consciousness.” (Pg. 11)
He states in a lecture, “The Krsna consciousness movement is meant to give perfect knowledge to human society. But such knowledge one can understand who he is, who God is, what the material world is, why we have come here, why we must undergo so much tribulation and misery, and why we have to die. Of course, no one wants to die, but death will come. No one wants to become an old m an, but still old age comes. No one wants to suffer from disease, but surely enough disease comes. These are the real problems of human life, and they are yet to be dissolved.” (Pg. 23)
He asserts, “Taking on a guru is not simply a fashion. One who is serious about understanding spiritual life requires a guru. A guru is a question of necessity, for one must be very serious to understand spiritual life, God, proper action, and one’s relationship with God… We shouldn’t go to a guru simply because a guru may be fashionable at the moment. Surrender must be there, for without surrender we cannot learn anything. If we go to a guru simply to challenge him, we will learn nothing. We must accept the guru just as Arjuna accepted his guru.” (Pg. 57-58)
In another interview, he argues, “The real guru will not manufacture anything. Everything he says is in accordance with the scriptures … He will not give you a mantra and tell you that you will become God in six months. This is not a guru’ business. A guru’s business is to canvass everyone to become a devotee of God… He has no other business.” (Pg. 62)
He clarifies, “There is a misconception that the Krsna consciousness movement represents the Hindu religion. In fact, however, Krsna consciousness is in no way a faith or religion that seeks to defeat other faiths or religions. Rather, it is an essential cultural movement for the entire human society and does not consider any particular sectarian faith. This cultural movement is especially meant to educate people in how they can love God.” (Pg. 105)
He suggests, “I think the Christian priests should cooperate with the Krsna consciousness movement. They should chant the name Christ of Christos and should stop condoning the slaughter of animals. This program follows the teachings of the Bible; it is not my philosophy.” (Pg. 119)
He observes, “We are attracting many students simply by chanting, and they are understanding the entire philosophy and becoming purified. The Society’s movement started only four years ago, in 1966, and we have so many branches already. The American boys and girls are taking it very seriously, and they are happy. Ask any one of them… They are cleansing the dirty things from the heart, simply by chanting…” (Pg. 153)
He asserts in an interview, “our business is to surrender to Krsna. If we artificially want to be more happy by economic development, that is not possible. So many men are working to hard, but does it mean that everyone will become a Henry Ford or a Rockefeller? Everyone is trying his best… You cannot change your destiny simply by working hard like…a dog. But you can utilize that energy for improving your Krsna consciousness.” (Pg. 180)
He argues, “The whole world of science and technology is running on the false idea that life is born from matter. We cannot allow this nonsensical theory to go unchallenged. Life does not come from matter. Matter is generated from life. This is not theory; it is fact. Science is based on an incorrect theory; therefore all its calculations and conclusions are wrong, and people are suffering because of this. When all these mistaken modern scientific theories are corrected, people will become happy. So we must challenge the scientists and defeat them. Otherwise they will mislead the entire society.” (Pg. 212)
He said in a lecture, “Today’s subject matter is our relationship to God. That is self-realization. The sankirtana movement is the easiest process for self-realization because it cleanses the heart. Our misunderstanding of our identity is due to the dust covering the mirror of the mind. In a mirror which is covered with dust one cannot see himself. But if it is very clear, then one can see himself. So meditation is a process for cleansing the heart. Meditation means to try to understand one’s relationship with the Supreme.” (Pg. 270)
This collection will be of great interest for anyone studying the Krishna movement.
The back cover of this book states, “In this book you will discover the timeless science that great teachers have spoken for millennia. [The book] opens up the secrets of the self within, nature and the universe, and the Supreme Self within and without. Here the world’s most distinguished teacher of the science of self-realization talks about meditating and practicing yoga in the modern age, gaining liberation from the law of karma, achieving superconsciousness, and much more. In all the interviews, lectures, essays and letters chosen for this special book… Swami Prabhupada speaks with startling clarity and power. He proves just how relevant the science of self-realization is to today’s world and your own life.”
The publisher’s Introduction explains, “For the enlightenment of human society, Srila Prabhupada produced some eighty volumes of translations and summary studies of India’s great spiritual classics… Also in 1944, Srila Prabhupada single-handedly launched a magazine called ‘Back to Godhead,’ which today continues to bring the timeless science of self-realization to the modern world. Nearly all the interviews, lectures, essays, and letters chosen for [this book] first appeared in ‘Back to Godhead.’ In these pages Srila Prabhupada presents the same message… of ancient India’s Vedic literatures… He transmits in modern English the same timeless knowledge that other great self-realized teachers have spoken for millennia---knowledge that opens up the secrets of the self within us, nature and the universe, and the Supreme Self within and without…
“Among the thirty-six selections chosen for this special book, we hear Srila Prabhupada’s moving poem upon his arrival in America, his exchange with a noted cardiologist on ‘soul research,’ his revelations to London Broadcasting Company on reincarnation, his telling remarks to the London Times on real and false ‘gurus,’ his dialogue with a German Benedictine monk on Krsna and Christ, his insights on superconsciousness and the law of karma, his conversation with a leading Russian scholar on spiritual communication, and his intimate talk with his disciples on the sham of modern science.”
He states in the opening essay, “The very important Krsna consciousness movement is meant to save human society from spiritual death. At present human society if being misled by leaders who are blind, for they do not know the aim and objective of human life, which is self-realization and the reestablishment of our lost relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This is the missing point. The Krsna consciousness movement is trying to enlighten humanity in this important manner.” (Pg. 2)
In an interview, he observes, “Christ consciousness is also Krsna consciousness, but because at present people do not follow the rules and regulations of Christianity---the commandments of Jesus Christ---they do not come to the standard of God consciousness.” (Pg. 11)
He states in a lecture, “The Krsna consciousness movement is meant to give perfect knowledge to human society. But such knowledge one can understand who he is, who God is, what the material world is, why we have come here, why we must undergo so much tribulation and misery, and why we have to die. Of course, no one wants to die, but death will come. No one wants to become an old m an, but still old age comes. No one wants to suffer from disease, but surely enough disease comes. These are the real problems of human life, and they are yet to be dissolved.” (Pg. 23)
He asserts, “Taking on a guru is not simply a fashion. One who is serious about understanding spiritual life requires a guru. A guru is a question of necessity, for one must be very serious to understand spiritual life, God, proper action, and one’s relationship with God… We shouldn’t go to a guru simply because a guru may be fashionable at the moment. Surrender must be there, for without surrender we cannot learn anything. If we go to a guru simply to challenge him, we will learn nothing. We must accept the guru just as Arjuna accepted his guru.” (Pg. 57-58)
In another interview, he argues, “The real guru will not manufacture anything. Everything he says is in accordance with the scriptures … He will not give you a mantra and tell you that you will become God in six months. This is not a guru’ business. A guru’s business is to canvass everyone to become a devotee of God… He has no other business.” (Pg. 62)
He clarifies, “There is a misconception that the Krsna consciousness movement represents the Hindu religion. In fact, however, Krsna consciousness is in no way a faith or religion that seeks to defeat other faiths or religions. Rather, it is an essential cultural movement for the entire human society and does not consider any particular sectarian faith. This cultural movement is especially meant to educate people in how they can love God.” (Pg. 105)
He suggests, “I think the Christian priests should cooperate with the Krsna consciousness movement. They should chant the name Christ of Christos and should stop condoning the slaughter of animals. This program follows the teachings of the Bible; it is not my philosophy.” (Pg. 119)
He observes, “We are attracting many students simply by chanting, and they are understanding the entire philosophy and becoming purified. The Society’s movement started only four years ago, in 1966, and we have so many branches already. The American boys and girls are taking it very seriously, and they are happy. Ask any one of them… They are cleansing the dirty things from the heart, simply by chanting…” (Pg. 153)
He asserts in an interview, “our business is to surrender to Krsna. If we artificially want to be more happy by economic development, that is not possible. So many men are working to hard, but does it mean that everyone will become a Henry Ford or a Rockefeller? Everyone is trying his best… You cannot change your destiny simply by working hard like…a dog. But you can utilize that energy for improving your Krsna consciousness.” (Pg. 180)
He argues, “The whole world of science and technology is running on the false idea that life is born from matter. We cannot allow this nonsensical theory to go unchallenged. Life does not come from matter. Matter is generated from life. This is not theory; it is fact. Science is based on an incorrect theory; therefore all its calculations and conclusions are wrong, and people are suffering because of this. When all these mistaken modern scientific theories are corrected, people will become happy. So we must challenge the scientists and defeat them. Otherwise they will mislead the entire society.” (Pg. 212)
He said in a lecture, “Today’s subject matter is our relationship to God. That is self-realization. The sankirtana movement is the easiest process for self-realization because it cleanses the heart. Our misunderstanding of our identity is due to the dust covering the mirror of the mind. In a mirror which is covered with dust one cannot see himself. But if it is very clear, then one can see himself. So meditation is a process for cleansing the heart. Meditation means to try to understand one’s relationship with the Supreme.” (Pg. 270)
This collection will be of great interest for anyone studying the Krishna movement.
June 7, 2022
I started this book on 14th March and I was only supposed to be reading it for a week and then moving on to my next read, however, this book has certainly dragged! I, unfortunately, did not enjoy this one bit and I think that’s why it’s taken me so long to get through it. I’ve never spent so much time on a book reading so slowly.
I understand reading something that isn’t your norm, or to your taste and it’s great to keep an open mind, that’s why I purchased the book in the first place, but my God it is difficult to not throw it out.
The book holds a very strong opinion of the Krsna Consciousness, this is the only religion and all the other religions are lies. I’m an atheist, but, as I said above, I like to keep an open mind, hence why I bought the book, to educate myself as to what else is out there. This was certainly an education.
It argues how other religions have read and interpreted the Bible wrong, how we are all sinners, unless we follow the one true God and chant the Hare Krsna.
It is interesting as you read through the interviews with other religious people and with the media and how it is all explained to them and how they are wrong and we should only be following this one true God.
His Devine Grace did have a couple of good points that are difficult to argue and I must admit when you look at it from his point of view, some of it does make sense… some of it!
This is not going back in my library, I’m giving it away to charity as this is not one that I would ever likely want to read again and wouldn’t recommend it, unless you want to be offended if you are religious or if you would like to expand your religious education then go for it.
I understand reading something that isn’t your norm, or to your taste and it’s great to keep an open mind, that’s why I purchased the book in the first place, but my God it is difficult to not throw it out.
The book holds a very strong opinion of the Krsna Consciousness, this is the only religion and all the other religions are lies. I’m an atheist, but, as I said above, I like to keep an open mind, hence why I bought the book, to educate myself as to what else is out there. This was certainly an education.
It argues how other religions have read and interpreted the Bible wrong, how we are all sinners, unless we follow the one true God and chant the Hare Krsna.
It is interesting as you read through the interviews with other religious people and with the media and how it is all explained to them and how they are wrong and we should only be following this one true God.
His Devine Grace did have a couple of good points that are difficult to argue and I must admit when you look at it from his point of view, some of it does make sense… some of it!
This is not going back in my library, I’m giving it away to charity as this is not one that I would ever likely want to read again and wouldn’t recommend it, unless you want to be offended if you are religious or if you would like to expand your religious education then go for it.
June 6, 2015
The first book I read on Krisna Conciousness. I had no idea this book as part of the religious group called the Hare Krisnas (I had no idea who they were), so I was able to read this book without really judging its source. It reads like an interview for the most part and is highly informative to the perspectives of their religion.One will find many interesting concepts introduced and will become aptly familiar with the belief system associated with the Hare Krisna group. Perhaps one will find a relationship between their own current beliefs (if they are trained in the regiment of another religion which advocates constant meditative practices, such as the mormon religion, the buddhist religions, and to some degree, the christian religion, and to less of a degree, Catholicism, and others) that coincide with what they may have already uncovered themselves. Many members of the religious group I have met have gone from using psychedelics to joining this group due to the transcendental nature of their belief system (though I would disagree that this religion is the solution), however one may find if they are familiar with transcendental states of mind that many members within this group can be very enlightening. I would recommend this book but with the mindset that one should not simply believe everything written but instead be very skeptical, however not from a scientific perspective but from the perspective that all religions hold truths and if one were to practice their religion as a monk they would find the same results for any religion.
July 31, 2018
Consciousness
I have read the books on spirituality written by many authors, of which, Osho, Sadhguru, J Krishnamurthy, and Swami Prabhupãda are some of well know and widely hail as the masters.
Every one of them has their own concept about achieving Nirvana and like that Swami Prabhupãda too has a concept called Krishna Consciousness.
Throughout the book, you will get to read about his view on Yoga, consciousness, the importance of living well, eating well, behaving well to reach the embodiment of Nirvana. There are several chapters where the audience is asking questions to Swami, and Swami answers them beautifully.
There are many things to which I don't agree but then that's the beauty of learning. Swami throughout the book emphasizes on Krishna Consciousness and assures everyone that no matter what religion are you from, it's possible for to achieve that level of consciousness.
I think those who like reading self-help books, should read this book.
It's a good book.
Akshat Solanki
I have read the books on spirituality written by many authors, of which, Osho, Sadhguru, J Krishnamurthy, and Swami Prabhupãda are some of well know and widely hail as the masters.
Every one of them has their own concept about achieving Nirvana and like that Swami Prabhupãda too has a concept called Krishna Consciousness.
Throughout the book, you will get to read about his view on Yoga, consciousness, the importance of living well, eating well, behaving well to reach the embodiment of Nirvana. There are several chapters where the audience is asking questions to Swami, and Swami answers them beautifully.
There are many things to which I don't agree but then that's the beauty of learning. Swami throughout the book emphasizes on Krishna Consciousness and assures everyone that no matter what religion are you from, it's possible for to achieve that level of consciousness.
I think those who like reading self-help books, should read this book.
It's a good book.
Akshat Solanki
June 18, 2018
I got this book while I was 'lost' looking for a trekking route to a monastery high up in the Shivapuri National Park. The book was a gift from 'Hare Krishna' followers in the foothills of the national park. Bought it for Rs. 250 ($2.40)hoping for nothing. I was told by the guy who gave the book that I should look deep in me, and I will see the God that I was destined to see. And also to visit their site again...to live there!!!
So...how was the book?
The book's crux makes sense if you are a Hindu... The Science of Self-Realization by Swami Prabhupāda is rather a concise summary of Bhagavata Gita. I learned one thing...that I HAVE to read the Original Bhagavata Gita after this book.
So...how was the book?
The book's crux makes sense if you are a Hindu... The Science of Self-Realization by Swami Prabhupāda is rather a concise summary of Bhagavata Gita. I learned one thing...that I HAVE to read the Original Bhagavata Gita after this book.
May 7, 2016
Where is the science?
Below dialogue reproduced from the book (page 19) is sufficient enough to know the weird views of the author aka self declared God about adhyatma or spirituality.
"If you respect the spiritual master as much as God, then you must offer him the same facilities you would offer to God. God travels in a golden car. If the disciples offer the spiritual master an ordinary motorcar, it would not be sufficient, because the spiritual master has to be treated like a god." !!
Isnt spirituality about denouncing the material pleasure and searching for the ultimate truth?
Below dialogue reproduced from the book (page 19) is sufficient enough to know the weird views of the author aka self declared God about adhyatma or spirituality.
"If you respect the spiritual master as much as God, then you must offer him the same facilities you would offer to God. God travels in a golden car. If the disciples offer the spiritual master an ordinary motorcar, it would not be sufficient, because the spiritual master has to be treated like a god." !!
Isnt spirituality about denouncing the material pleasure and searching for the ultimate truth?
March 2, 2015
Ultimate book for a Newbie who wants to understand God, Absolute Truth,purpose of life and One's Relationship to the Almighty from a scientific point of view.
HDG AC Bhaktivedanta Srila Prabhupada doesn't manufacture any new thing, he just quotes sastra as it is and hence, it is very clear and easy to understand.
HDG AC Bhaktivedanta Srila Prabhupada doesn't manufacture any new thing, he just quotes sastra as it is and hence, it is very clear and easy to understand.
April 6, 2016
Flat out the best book on self realization. It explains the science for it, how it happens in a human being, and what practices unfold self realization. A book I go to time and time again, always hitting me in new and profound ways. I will never tire of this book.
March 8, 2018
This book will give you ultimate philosophy directly from Srimad Bhagwat Geeta. The author of this book Swami Prabhupada is one great spiritual master of 20th century. This book will make you realize the spiritual aspect of yourself.
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