By Ajit Krishna Dasa

From the perspective of a Vaisnava in the line of Srila Prabhupada, we must examine the culture of hip hop and rap with reference to the timeless teachings of the Vedic scriptures. In the Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, and other sacred texts, the purpose of human life, the influence of the three modes of material nature, and the consequences of sinful activities are clearly outlined. When we look at hip hop and rap culture through this lens, we see many ways in which it conflicts with the goal of self-realization and spiritual advancement.