Symptoms of Being Actually in Kṛṣṇa Consciousness
The transition from material consciousness to spiritual consciousness is marked by tangible symptoms and a distinct change in lifestyle, vision, and behavior. Śrīla Prabhupāda explains that being actually in Kṛṣṇa consciousness is not a matter of mental speculation or academic qualification, but a practical state of existence where one's entire life is dovetailed in the service of the Supreme Lord. This article explores the defining characteristics of a devotee who has truly awakened their original, spiritual nature.
Active Engagement vs. Artificial Renunciation
Śrīla Prabhupāda frequently emphasizes that true spirituality is dynamic and active. One who is actually situated in Kṛṣṇa consciousness does not simply retire to a solitary place to make a show of meditation; rather, they engage fully in the field of activities for the pleasure of Kṛṣṇa. This active service is superior to false renunciation because it purifies the existence and benefits society.
- To retire from the activities of Krsna consciousness and to sit aloof making a show of Krsna consciousness; is less important than actually engaging in the field of activities for the sake of Krsna.
- He who is actually elevated in Krsna consciousness does not care for the different processes. He simply directly engages himself in activities of Krsna consciousness and thereby factually attains his constitutional position as eternal servitor of Lord Krsna.
- One who has actually come to understand one's constitutional position as the eternal servitor of the Lord gives up all engagements save working in Krsna consciousness.
Transformation of Character and Vision
A definitive test of advancement is the transformation of one's character and vision. Śrīla Prabhupāda asserts that a person cannot be simultaneously Kṛṣṇa conscious and attached to sinful activities; the two are contradictory. Furthermore, a realized soul develops a universal vision, ceasing to discriminate between living beings on the bodily platform, such as protecting humans while condoning the slaughter of animals.
- It is not that one is a debauch, at the same time a Krsna conscious. That is a contradictory. It cannot be. If he is actually Krsna conscious, he cannot be debauch. Two things cannot go parallel.
- This inequality, discrimination between man and animal is due to lack of Krsna consciousness. When one becomes actually Krsna conscious, he does not make such distinction that a man should be given protection and the animal should be killed.
- When one is actually Krsna conscious, he automatically loses his taste for pale things.
- As long as we are in material consciousness, our lovable objects will be limited. But when we are actually in Krsna consciousness, our lovable objects will be universal.
Constant Remembrance and Dependence
The essence of Kṛṣṇa consciousness is the constant remembrance of the Lord in every aspect of life. Śrīla Prabhupāda teaches that an advanced devotee sees Kṛṣṇa everywhere—even in the taste of water—and fully realizes that Kṛṣṇa is the only supreme master. This realization brings about a sense of total dependence on the Lord and freedom from the false concept of independence.
- This is actually Krishna Consciousness. We can remember Krishna in every moment. We can remember Krishna while taking a glass of water because the taste of water is Krishna.
- I am very glad to read in your letter a nice line, "My main concern is seeing Him constantly in my daily life, that is, to constantly remember Him and not to forget Him." This is actually Krishna Consciousness.
- No one but Visnu has any independence. If we develop consciousness of this fact, then we are in actual Krsna consciousness. We should always remember that Krsna is the only supreme master and that everyone else is His servant.
The Result: Liberation and Purity
Ultimately, being actually in Kṛṣṇa consciousness leads to complete purification and liberation from material bondage. Śrīla Prabhupāda compares the purity of such a devotee to the clear autumn sky. In this state, one is no longer covered by the darkness of ignorance and is situated in their original, eternal position, free from the dictates of the material body.
- When the sky is clear of all clouds, the stars at night shine very beautifully; similarly, when a person is actually situated in Krsna consciousness, he is cleared of all dirty things, and he becomes as beautiful as the stars in the autumn sky.
- When situated in Krsna consciousness, one is no longer in the darkness of ignorance, and when freed from all such darkness, one is situated in his original position.
- When he's actually Krsna conscious, he's transcendental to this gross and subtle body. He attains a spiritual body, which is never to be finished - eternal, blissful life.
Conclusion
To be actually situated in Kṛṣṇa consciousness is the perfection of life. As Śrīla Prabhupāda illustrates, it transforms a person from a state of limited, material discrimination to one of universal love and unmotivated service. Whether through the cessation of sinful habits, the development of a higher taste, or the constant remembrance of the Lord, the symptoms are clear and scientifically observable. By following the authorized process of bhakti-yoga, anyone can attain this state, becoming free from the darkness of ignorance and regaining their constitutional position as an eternal servant of Kṛṣṇa.
Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category Actually in Krsna Consciousness. We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.