Back to Godhead. Vol. I, No. 3. December 1, 1966
New York: International Society for Krishna Consciousness, Inc., 1966. Quarto, publisher's saddle-stapled illustrated paper wraps.
December 1966 issue of Back to Godhead magazine, the official organ of the Hare Krishna movement, featuring an essay by Beat legend Allen Ginsberg. Indian spiritual leader Srila Prabhupada founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), better known as the Hare Krishna movement, in the US in 1966. Originally established in 1944, Back to Godhead was handed over by Prabhupada to his Western followers the year ISKCON was founded. Still published today, it was intended to spread Krishna consciousness in the Western world, and features teachings and lectures by Prabhupada, poems by disciples, and philosophical essays, with Ginsberg’s contribution in issue, "Reflections On the Mantra," containing his ideas about vocal chants functioning as a way to alter human consciousness, noting that lines from Gertrude Stein or lyrics from the Rolling Stones fulfill the same purpose. An early supporter of Prabhupada, Ginsberg played an active role in promoting his philosophy in the US, going on to organize the historic Hare Krishna Festival in San Francisco in 1967, one year after this issue was published. Moderate toning and light soiling and edgewear. Very good. Scarce. Item #13388
$350.00