Since its founding in 1966, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has grown from a small storefront in New York to a worldwide spiritual movement. Temples, farms, schools, cultural centers, and communities have blossomed across continents. But along with this global expansion comes a natural challenge ā how to remain united? How can thousands of devotees from diverse backgrounds, countries, and perspectives remain one family, carrying out the sacred mission given by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami PrabhupÄda?
Unity was not a side issue for ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda. It was a central concern. He saw ISKCON not as a collection of individuals, but as a spiritual family, a movement, and most significantly ā his body. In a letter to his disciples, he once wrote:
ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda understood that spiritual strength is sustained not just by personal purity, but also by cooperation. He often said, āYour love for me will be shown by how you cooperate with each other.ā
So how do we protect this legacy? What core principles must we uphold to ensure ISKCON remains united, strong, and spiritually vibrant?
Let us explore the top 3 most important principles for keeping ISKCON united, based on ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄdaās own words, guidance, and example.
1. Loyalty to ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄdaās Teachings
There is no question: the foundation of ISKCONās unity is ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda himself ā his books, his lectures, his vision, and his spiritual authority. He is the Åikį¹£Ä-guru of the entire movement. Regardless of who our initiating spiritual master is, ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda remains the pre-eminent guide and instructing guru for all ISKCON devotees.
Why this matters:
Movements often fragment when the original vision is forgotten or distorted. But ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda gave us an abundant and detailed spiritual legacy ā over 70 volumes of translated ÅÄstra with purports, thousands of lectures, letters, and conversations. He laid down clear standards for behavior, worship, leadership, and outreach. If all devotees ā young and old ā remain faithful to his instructions, unity naturally follows.
When ISKCON remains firmly rooted in ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄdaās words and mood, it cannot be shaken ā no matter what external challenges may come.
2. Cultivating a Spirit of Cooperation and Respect Among Devotees
Perhaps the most quoted instruction from ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda regarding unity is:
This statement captures the heart of unity ā cooperation. ISKCON is a society of devotees, not simply individuals pursuing personal salvation. Our ability to serve together, tolerate differences, and respect one another is a direct expression of our sincerity in spiritual life.
ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda constantly emphasized humility, tolerance, and avoiding offenses. He warned that if devotees become envious, proud, or argumentative, the movement would fracture ā not from outside attacks, but from within.
Even with the best philosophy and structure, if relationships between devotees are strained, the spirit of bhakti is damaged. On the other hand, when devotees serve side-by-side with a mood of affection, encouragement, and service, it attracts the mercy of Kį¹į¹£į¹a.
If every temple and devotee community prioritizes healthy relationships, ISKCON will grow stronger not just structurally, but spiritually.
3. Personal SÄdhana and Purity of Devotees
Unity doesnāt only depend on group policies ā it begins in the heart of the individual. A devotee who is spiritually nourished, chanting sincerely, reading regularly, and serving selflessly is less prone to conflict, politics, or deviation.
ÅrÄ«la PrabhupÄda often said, āFirst become pure. Then your preaching will have power.ā
A movement full of strong, serious sÄdhakas will naturally be stable, unified, and blissful. On the other hand, when personal standards of purity decline, egos rise, offenses increase, and disunity becomes inevitable.