Jesus Christ is recognized as a directly empowered representative of Krishna. Hell as a temporary destination after death for people who have sinned greatly while on earth. Eating food prepared for and offered to God is an act of communion with Krishna. When such food is eaten, Krishna's energy purifies the body of the devotee. Male monks shave their heads, except for a central patch called a sikha .
Married monks wear white dhotis .
Female residents of a temple wear traditional saris and do not shave their heads. All monks vow to abandon cigarettes, alcohol and other drugs, reject gambling, and follow a non-violent vegetarian diet. They also make a commitment to chant the names of God a prescribed number of times each day. They rise before sunrise and chant and pray at intervals during the day. Congregation members wear regular clothing and work regular jobs.