The word “God” may mean many things, but the Bhāgavatam clearly defines God as Īśvara—the Supreme Controller. Without control, there is no God. That Supreme Controller is Krishna—eternally independent, all-knowing, and all-powerful. Living beings like us, however, are always controlled—by nature, time, circumstances, and ultimately death. This fundamental difference defines our existence.
Śukadeva Gosvāmī, in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 2.1.5, gives a clear instruction: “If you want to be fearless, then hear about, glorify, and remember the Supreme Lord.”
This simple advice points to the most effective path—devotion through hearing His glories, chanting His names, and constantly remembering Him. These alone, when done sincerely, are enough to free us from fear and illusion.
When King Parīkṣit was on the verge of death, he asked what one should do at the last moment. Śukadeva’s answer was clear and firm: engage in pure devotional service—hearing, chanting, and remembering Krishna. Not austerities, not rituals, not philosophical debates. Parīkṣit asked repeatedly to reach every kind of seeker, and the answer remained the same: Bhakti alone liberates.
This teaching may sound simple, but in the age we live—the age of Kali—it is urgent and vital. Kali-yuga is the most fallen, most spiritually dangerous time. People are distracted, restless, and confused. The weight of fear and anxiety grows every day. Yet Krishna has mercifully given the most powerful medicine—His holy name and the path of devotion.
Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu, Krishna Himself in the mood of a devotee, declared that chanting His names, hearing His pastimes, and remembering Him with love is the easiest and surest way to salvation in Kali-yuga. No need for complicated rituals or difficult austerities—just sincere chanting with love.
But why is it still so difficult? Śrīla Prabhupāda explained that while the method is simple, sincere practice is rare. Anyone can chant many rounds, but chanting with real attention, humility, and surrender is hard to find. Still, sincere effort will bring success because Bhakti is the only spiritual path that offers hope in this dark age.
We must recognize the urgency of our time. Every moment wasted in distraction or doubt deepens our fear and distance from God. But hearing about Krishna, chanting His names, and remembering Him can cut through the darkness and bring real fearlessness and peace.
This is not just a religious practice. It is the lifeline Krishna offers in this emergency. The Bhāgavatam promises it. Śrīla Prabhupāda confirms it. Our hearts will know it if we try sincerely.
Do not delay. The time is now—before fear and confusion overwhelm us completely.
Hear. Chant. Remember. And find the fearless refuge that only Krishna can give.