Devotional service is not simply a ritual we perform to become purified. We actually have to see its connection with becoming Krishna conscious. The essence of all the rules and regulations is to remember Krishna. We think that simply by following rules and regulations, we can achieve success. The fact is, anyone who follows the rules and regulations without understanding that the purpose behind them is to remember Krishna is wasting his time. We may perform so many duties, but if they don’t evoke attraction for constant remembrance of Krishna, then we are simply wasting our time.
(SB 4.30.3 Belgium, May 1990)