Spiritual Figures  Krishna FAQs  FAQ
Who is Krishna?

Krishna is a central figure in Hinduism and is known as an avatar or incarnation of the god Vishnu. He is revered as a deity and is worshipped by millions of people all over the world. Krishna's story is told in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata, and is also the central figure in the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important texts in Hinduism.

According to Hindu belief, Krishna was born in Mathura, India, over 5,000 years ago. His birth was prophesied and he was believed to be the eighth son of King Vasudeva and his wife Devaki. However, due to a curse, Krishna's parents were imprisoned by his uncle Kamsa, who feared that one of their children would grow up to overthrow him. To protect Krishna, his parents sent him to be raised by a cowherd family in the village of Vrindavan.

As a child, Krishna was known for his mischievous and playful nature, often stealing butter and playing pranks on the villagers. However, he also displayed extraordinary powers and strength, such as lifting the mountain Govardhan to protect the villagers from a storm. As he grew older, Krishna became a skilled warrior and leader, and was instrumental in the great battle of Kurukshetra between the Pandavas and Kauravas, as told in the Mahabharata.

However, it is in the Bhagavad Gita that Krishna's teachings and wisdom are most prominently featured. The Gita is a conversation between Krishna and his friend and disciple, Arjuna, on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. In this dialogue, Krishna imparts valuable lessons on duty, karma, and the path to enlightenment. He emphasizes the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the outcome, and encourages Arjuna to follow the path of devotion and surrender to God.

Krishna is also known for his role as a divine lover, particularly in his relationship with Radha. Their love is seen as the ultimate symbol of devotion and union with the divine. In Hindu mythology, Krishna is often depicted playing the flute, surrounded by gopis (cowherd girls) who are mesmerized by his music and love.

Overall, Krishna is a beloved figure in Hinduism who embodies many different qualities and roles. He is seen as a teacher, a warrior, a lover, and a divine being. His teachings and actions continue to inspire and guide people on their spiritual journey towards self-realization and union with the divine.