Is there place in ISKCON for someone who has belief in belief in God, but not belief in God?
Question:
Is there a place in ISKCON for someone who has belief in belief in God? That is, someone who appreciates the value of religious and cultural practices—such as eating healthy food, maintaining a regulated lifestyle, reading and hearing wisdom texts, and doing meditation—but does not personally believe in God or accept supernatural stories. Instead, they choose, with humility and seriousness, to stay within the limits of their perception. Can such a person have a place?
Answer:
It largely depends on whom such a person is interacting with. Rather than focusing specifically on ISKCON, we could turn to the Bhagavad-gita, which is one of the foundational texts upon which the Krishna consciousness movement is based.
Multilevel Spirituality in the Gita
The Gita offers a multilevel approach to spirituality. It recognizes that people are on different levels of spiritual understanding and engagement:
- Some may act out of material attachment but with a good purpose.
- Others may act with a sense of duty.
- Some work in devotion to God.
- Others renounce selfish motives and act selflessly out of love.
This range is evident in Chapter 12, verses 8 through 12, which describe a gradual progression in spiritual practice—from pure devotion down to detached work. The Gita clearly supports multilevel engagement without rejecting the lower rungs.
Two Classifications of Human Beings in the Gita’s Framework
The Gita presents two broad ways of classifying human beings:
- Foundationally, in terms of their conception of ultimate reality—this concerns how close or far one is from realizing the Absolute Truth (God).
- Functionally, in terms of how one lives and acts—this includes how one aligns with the three modes of material nature: goodness, passion, and ignorance.
From a foundational perspective, not accepting God would certainly be a significant gap. However, from a functional perspective, if someone is living in the mode of goodness, practicing regulation, self-improvement, and introspection, then that is a positive step in the elevation of human consciousness.
Rise of Pragmatic Spirituality
In today’s world, there’s a growing shift toward pragmatic spirituality—where the emphasis is less on the metaphysical claims of a spiritual path and more on how its practices can improve one’s mental and emotional well-being. For many, the question isn’t “Is God real?” but rather “Does this practice help me live better?”
This same pragmatic principle is now being applied to religion and theism itself.
Response Depends on the Presenter’s Emphasis
If someone is exposed to the Gita through a teacher who strongly emphasizes the devotional and theistic dimension, then merely believing in the value of belief—without actual theistic conviction—may be seen as insufficient, perhaps even unacceptable or heretical.
However, if the teacher emphasizes the gradual journey of consciousness, then even a non-theistic person who values and practices discipline, wisdom, and compassion can be seen as moving in a constructive direction. Any reason that motivates a person to engage in these uplifting practices can be a gateway to higher understanding.
On Mixing with Devotees and Community Dynamics
The key here is intent and behavior. If such a person uses spiritual practices as a tool for personal growth without trying to weaken others’ faith, then their association can be seen as mostly positive.
But if their motive is to mix with devotees and undermine their theistic faith, then naturally, there would be concern, and certain restrictions or caution may be applied within the community.
If the person is sincere in their practice and respectful of others’ beliefs, they can be nurtured carefully in association. Even without theistic belief, spiritual practices can offer transcendental experiences, which may, over time, open their heart to accepting higher realities.
Conclusion
Yes, there can be a place, especially if:
- The person’s intent is respectful, not disruptive.
- They are open to self-transformation through spiritual practices.
- Their association is guided and contextualized appropriately.
Such engagement can gradually pave the way toward deeper spiritual realization—even if one starts without a firm belief in God.