Eating meat leads to cancer, heart disease, and a lack of compassion for weaker beings. Moreover, the law of karma stipulates that every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

Anyone who tolerates the killing of animals by eating meat can expect little more than a devastating reaction.

Poisoning also leads to disease. Lying, cheating, theft, and a lack of self-respect are symptoms found in those who consume even mildly intoxicating substances. Obviously, those who feel the need to distort reality through intoxication speak volumes about their happiness and level of consciousness. Therefore, the devotee has no need for such artificial stimulants (being naturally happy). Besides, the word “toxin” means “poison.” And what sane person would take poison?

By illicit sex, we mean sexual relations outside of marriage. Devotees believe in celibacy, or only in sexual relations aimed at procreation. Since sex naturally results in pregnancy, it stands to reason that God intended it for that purpose. Any other purpose can only betray an effort to defy God's natural laws. The current rampage of sexually transmitted diseases—herpes, AIDS, etc.—offers another clue. Gambling is synonymous with cheating and reveals that we believe in chance, not in the existence of an Absolute Master.

It should be noted, however, that the four regulative principles, although virtuous in themselves, do not embody the sum and essence of true spirituality. They are merely elementary religious principles that mark the beginnings of a true spiritual quest. They do not in themselves constitute any spiritual goal. However, it is an important first step, and they prepare the way for chanting the Holy Name.

Nevertheless, no strict rules govern this chant, a source of spiritual benefits, whether or not one adopts the other principles. Chanting the Holy Name without respecting the regulative principles is like lighting a fire and then pouring water over it.

Despite this, everyone is encouraged to practice this chant:

Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare

Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare

What is “surrender to God”?

The secret of success and the perfection of existence is self-surrender to God. Surrender to Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, means accepting or firmly believing that the Lord protects the soul that surrenders to Him, wherever it may be. It never remains alone or unprotected.

In fact, anyone who serves Lord Krishna with love and devotion never remains unprotected, no matter where they may be in the galaxy.