Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 40 Summary

Blessed, blessed is Shri Sai Samarth, who has, in the form of this book, brought fulfilment to the devotees and has also accomplished his own purpose by instructing them about the worldly as well as the spiritual matters.

Baba listened fully to that invitation, sent with such a pure heart, and said, "I always remember him who remembers me."

"I need no horses or carriages, no aeroplanes and trains. To him who calls out to me fondly, I appear instantly, without a moment's delay.

"Such are Baba's movements, difficult to know. He fills everything totally - animate and inanimate. What then, is coming and going to him? He appears wherever he pleases.

📕Chapter - 40 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 39 Summary

Purification of heart is the chief among all the means of crossing it and its source lies in devotion to God.

There is no devotion like listening to the stories of the Guru. It inspires love for him, quite effortlessly. The mind becomes cleansed and purified. And from thence, spirituality is born.

He who listens to the stories with reverence and faith, will reach, without delay, the shore beyond.

"He who prostrates in obeisance at the Guru's feet, is ready to give up his life in the Guru's service and puts a question to the Guru very respectfully, to him the Jananis give knowledge with exposition.

📕Chapter - 39 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 38 Summary

"Annadhan" or feeding in charity regularly, is the chief among all actions. Among all prescribed rules of conduct, the first and most important is annadaan. If you consider carefully, none other is greater than this.

Whoever comes to the door and at whatever time, it is not proper to show disrespect to him.

When the Guru himself is giving the prasad, if the disciple has doubts as to whether it is proper or improper to eat it, that disciple will head for self-destruction and go to Hell.

Offering of wealth, grain, clothes are not the only form of dakshina. To obey the Guru's command, to propitiate him and thus to please him is also dakshina.

But one who had control over his mind always won Baba's approval.

With Sai untruth would never work. Sai's Grace would never be obtained by telling a falsehood. Untruth leads to a Fall and ultimately, to an evil end.

To deceive the Guru is a great sin and there is no expiation for it.

📕Chapter - 38 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 37 Summary

'I am the body;  this is my wealth' - this is called the firmly - rooted bodily ego.

"Have little patience, perseverance of a firm faith, and you will acquire the greatest glory."

Keep Sai's love alive in your heart, constantly.

This Gatha or Pothi of Sai is enough for us. However numerous the sins on our head might be, he is our only refuge in our troubles.

Even if repeated readings are not possible the listeners should regularly listen every day to those chapters dealing with Guru-devotion, storing them in the heart as its precious ornaments.

📕Chapter 37 - Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 36 Summary

Listen respectfully to this most sacred Saicharita. May the ears of the listeners and the mouth of the speaker be purified.

It is the presiding Goddess of this Mashidmayee (mosque), who asks for her dues, by paying which the giver is freed of his debt.

"But debt, enmity and murder are such that the doer can never escape them."

"Initially, this man was poor. He took a vow that if he earned fifteen rupees, he would offer his first salary to God. But later, he forgot all about it.

As his salary doubled and increased four times, his forgetfulness also increased.

"If you will do as I tell you, all your troubles will end."

"But until you get what you want, you must follow one discipline that I prescribe - give up an item of food that you are very fond of. By doing so, you will accomplish your objective."

His financial condition was so low, but his renunciation was of the highest order. Always satisfied with the little that he had, he bore the tribulations of poverty most valiantly.

"Money will not tempt my devotee. He will never get caught in the splendour of wealth. "

"You give up eating something that you are very fond of and say to him that, 'I give it up until I get your darshan."

📕Chapter - 36 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 35 Summary

"When I am with you, why does he leave me out for dakshina? Kaka whispered in reply, "Ask the question to Baba himself."

Suddenly, Baba asked Kaka, "What, what is he saying to you?"

The friend then, himself asked Baba,  'Can I give you dakshina?'

Baba said, " You did not wish to give, so I did not ask you. Now if you wish to give, then.give it."

"There was once a fickle-minded man, whose house was full of wealth, food grains etc." Physically, mentally, he had no illness, no afflictions. But he liked to court trouble. "

"Needlessly, he wandered about, carrying a heavy burden on his head. His mind knew no peace. One moment he would put down the load, only to pick it up the next moment. He could not steady his mind."

"Seeing his plight, my heart was moved by compassion and I said to him, "steady your mind and fix it on one thing - whatever that may be."

Whichever path one wants to follow, he will guide him along that same path. Sai knows the capacity of each and accordingly, they are given spiritual guidance by him."

📕Chapter - 35 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 34 Summary

He was Sai Maharaj, the greatest among the yogis and most excellent among the saints, whose mere darshan was enough to drive away all the illness.

"Those who seek refugee in the mosque, will never come to an evil end, even to the end of the world."

"That anyone should come here and not experience relief, is a thing that can never happen, either in the past, present or future. Be sure that your object will be accomplished. "

"When I have been so pure of conduct, why.have I to suffer this painful condition? I have always avoided wicked, sinful deeds. Why then the burden of sin on my head?

Baba, I really cannot bear it now! It is better that I die. Whatever suffering remains to endure, I shall bear it in the next birth.

"Why spread out this suffering over ten births? We can spread it over ten days only by sharing it mutually, and be done with it!

"Oh, that you should ask for the calamity of death when I sit here, powerful enough to give you Moksha, your material as well as spiritual welfare!  Is this all your prowess, your daring?

Endure whatever comes your way. Allah Malik is our Protector. Always meditate on Him, for He alone bears the burden of all the cares and anxieties.

"O  Karim ( Allah)! Have pity on my condition.
For your name is Rahiman ( Compassionate) and Rahim (Merciful)!
You are always the Refuge of your devotees.

📕Chapter 34 - Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 33 Summary

Udi is nothing but dust. Baba's dhuni has produced so many bags of Udi that no one has been able to count them.

Unlimited is the power of this Udi.

As your faith, so your experience!

He wants nothing but single-minded love and devotion and comes running to your help, when you call him.

Neither time nor place can then restrain him; he stands behind you firmly, all the time and forever.

Saints work untiringly for their devotees, day and night.

The darshan of a Saint's photograph is the same as his actual darshan.

📕Chapter - 33 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 32 Summary

Even if Vedas and Vedangas are studied thoroughly and the Shrutishastra is read repeatedly, there is no true knowledge without the Guru's grace.

"When someone offers you a piece of bread, requesting you to eat it, take his words to be a good omen which will remove all obstacles to your work."

I shall immediately. Find for you what you are searching. But he who respects my word will achieve his purpose."

"Unless His image lives in the eyes all the time, the eyes will be but two balls of flesh.

A devotee will never boast of his knowledge. He offers himself, body, mind and wealth, at the swami's feet.

Whatever happens, happens by God's Will. It is He who raises you up or brings you down. It is He who fights or makes others fight. He alone, is the doer and the impeller of all action.

Whatever the innermost thoughts in any body's mind, Sai knows them all. There is nothing on this earth that he does not know.

"My Master says, "Take, O take this away! " Everyone says, "Give, give only to me!" (material things). But no one bothers to make the effort.

"As you sow, so you reap. He who will bear in mind the worsa I have uttered, will enjoy priceless happiness. "

📕Chapter - 32 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 31 Summary

Whatever the form before the (mental) eye in the moment of death, it is that same form in which the next birth comes. But he who has surrendered humbly at the feet of God, has no rebirth.

And it is for this reason that devotees were encouraged to cultivate the habit of ceaselessly Chanting the name.

Some devotees were washing Baba's feet; taking the Holy water from Baba's toe - in a spoon, some were drinking it while others applied it to their eyes.

When remembered lovingly, He comes to our rescue in the time of trouble.

"From tomorrow, begin a real study of Bhagavat. Complete three "saptahas' of that book, earnestly with your thought, action and speech.

"God will then be pleased and will put an end to all your sorrows; Maya, temptations will be calmed down and you will enjoy true happiness.

"Listen to my words with an alert mind. Do not be riddled with doubts."

📕Chapter - 31 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 30 Summary

Upliftment of their devotees has always been the inevitable mission of the saints and you are the Acharya of all the saints.

What do we, of little strength and no purifying influences, know of devotion? Yet, even if all others abandon us, Sai will never forsake us.

O Sainath, come speedily to my rescue!

It was Sai, the ocean of kindness, who bestowed favour on me, by virtue of which alone, I have been able to present this most auspicious book to the readers.

When the Wheel of Fortune brings adversity, the mind also begins to spin like the whirlpool; the body runs helter-skelter, allowing not a moment's peace.

Without the saints really desiring it, who can go for their darshan? It is wonderful how, without their authority, not a leaf on the tree will move!

Dreams, in order to come true, must come at a particular time - those at daybreak or.forty-eight minutes before the breaking of dawn are fruitful - others are in vain.

Such is the general belief. But as for the dreams associated with Shirdi, whenever or wherever they come, they always come true. Such is the unfailing experience of the devotees.

📕Chapter - 30 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 29 Summary

"Allah Malik will give you aplenty. Allah will bless you."

Your faith should remain steadfast.

By facing the hardships squarely, with a ceaseless chant of Sai's name, all the calamities will disappear. Such is the tremendous power of Naam.

There are thousands and crores of impulses in the mind. Abandon the evil ones and pursue the good. And then see Sai's skill - how he stands behind his devotees in full support.

Now, who had the authority to question,  "Why do you do this?"

For Sai knows surely, what is proper and what is not. He alone is the Power that gives us and takes back.

📕Chapter - 29 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 28 Summary

Sai is not confined to one place.

"My man, even if he be in another country or thousands of miles away, I shall bring him to me, tying a rope to his legs ( like the young one of a sparrow ). "

The devotion to Sai grew so much, that if he met anyone going to Shirdi, he always sent with him a garland, dakshina, camphor or incense-sticks, etc.

"Except for these Holy feet, I now know no other God in this world. May my heart be always engrossed in your worship only.

"Of all the parts of the body, head is the chief. Sprinkle a little water on it and it will be equal to a full bath.

"Calling it a "Vision", are you trying to evaluate my words? My words have a profound significance. Not even a letter in them is meaningless.!"

"No door is necessary for my entry. I have neither shape or size. I am always everywhere. "

📕Chapter - 28 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 27 Summary

Innumerable are the holy places of Pilgrimage, spread out in different parts of the country. But to the devotees of Sai, Shirdi alone is the holiest of all.

O listeners, read this "Satcharit" with concentration, for this sacred Life of Sai is the best means of attaining the Guru's grace.

Whether it is the Ramayana or the Bhagavat, or, for that matter, any book on spiritual subjects, while reading the life of Rama or Krishna or others, one sees Sai, in front and behind.

And one feels that the great personalities of these books are none other than Sai himself, in different garbs, and the narrator and his listeners always see the image of Sai before them.

There is no other means easier than the Naam, to purify the heart.

"To take the Naam, a bath is not necessary; Naam has no percepts, no rules, laid down by the shastras. By taking the Naam all sins are destroyed. Naam is sacred, always.

📕Chapter - 27 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 26 Summary

What it reflects in a mirror is not really present there, just as in our sleep all our desires come true, but are destroyed the moment we wake up.

Your constant company is, to us, the Shastras and the Vedas. Listening to your Story every day, is like a perusal of the Sacred lore.

"Whatever the situation, " he said, "never leave the place of your own Guru. Always be steadfast in devotion and recognize the Oneness of all Gurus.

By smearing his Udi, the evil spirits take to their heels; by his benediction, troubles are averted; by his gracious glance, all harm is prevented. Hence people came running to him.

Saints may say something quite casually; yet the words will always come true and Pitale in his heart, knew this.

"Whatever suffering fate has ordained for us, has to be borne.

"Moreover, unless this pain and suffering is undergone fully, another birth has to be taken to complete it. Therefore, bear this suffering a little more. Do not be provoked into destroying your own life."

📕Chapter - 26 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 25 Summary

Sai is the very image of highest Mercy and the one thing needed here is steadfast devotion to him.

Once the devotee begins to cherish a single-minded devotion to Sai, he (Sai) will ward off all his calamities and suffering; he will also grant him all that he desires.

Devotees make plans, but they do not know their own benefit. Guru alone knows the devotees' interest, future, past and present.

The child asks for sweets, but the mother gives him a potion of medicinal herbs. It may cry, struggle violently in resistance. But such is the mother's verdict, and all out of a loving concern for its well-being.

Baba knew full well the future condition of his devotees.

Sai's words proved unmistakably accurate, and as per his words, children were born.

Even when I am no more, trust my words as the truth. My bones will give you an assurance from my grave.

"Not me alone, but even my tomb will speak to you. He who surrenders to it whole-heartedly, with him will it sway.

"Do not worry that I will be lost to you. You will hear my bones speaking to you of matters of your own interest.

"Only remember me, always, with a heart that is trusting. Worship me selflessly and you will achieve your highest weal. "

📕Chapter - 25 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 24 Summary

Singing praises of Sai Maharaj is the means of achieving both material and spiritual welfare.

With his intuitive powers, Sai Samarth knows full well, the thoughts and feelings of his devotees. He will fulfil his responsibility towards them and redeem his promise.

Without giving, at least a little of it, to others, I never put anything in my mouth.

When the mind, intellect and sense-organs are drawn to the enjoyment of sense-objects, think of me, first, and offer them to me, bit by bit.

When a desire is roused, let it be only about me. When you are angry, direct that anger towards me. Ego, obstinacy should all be directed similarly, at my feet by the devotees.

Once the mind comes to believe firmly, that the guru is always close by, it will never be plagued in this way.

The thought that Baba is near us, will, at the outset, give rise to the consideration of the worthiness or otherwise, of the enjoyment of that object.

If anyone were to find fault with,  or criticize the devotee who was serving him, Baba would never tolerate it.

Why should one try to judge the merits and faults of those who serve him?

📕Chapter - 24 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 23 Summary

We may regard him as an 'avatar', because he has all those characteristics. As for himself, he has always said, 'I am a slave in Allah's service."

He never claimed "I am God"; but "I am his poor slave, a Yade Hakka." He constantly chanted "Allah Malik."

"Do not lose courage and have no worry, whatsoever, in your mind. All will be well; give up worrying.  The Fakir is compassionate and will protect you.

Never did he undertake fasts; nor did he practise the arduous Hath yoga practice's. He had no hankering after food to pamper his palate, but always took food in moderation.

And as the faith of the listeners strengthens, Sai's rich treasures will open up to them, even more.

Listening to Sai's story is like drinking sweet nectar!

When the guest remains without food, it portends the loss of animals, sons, wealth, stocks of food-grains etc. Thus a guest remaining on an empty stomach is an invitation to trouble.

He is the slave of the Guru's command and has no independent judgement of his own. Always eager to obey the Guru's word, he will not consider the good or bad of it.

Disobeying the command was, to him, the greatest sin and obeying it, at once and in every possible way, was the greatest merit.

Those who disregard the Guru's word are, most certainly, destined to lose all the merit accumulated over the past births.

Absolute obedience of the Guru's command is the most precious among all ornaments.

Guru's command should be obeyed without a moment's delay.

Hence God will fulfil his wish, whose mind is for ever fixed at the Guru's feet.

📕Chapter - 23 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 22 Summary

"Know that this big toe of mine is itself Prayag so bathe here only."

"Give up your ego and bow your head before all the living beings, meditating on my big toe. This is an easy way of devotion.

Penniless and wealthy, he treated them all alike and by showing his inconceivable leela, he ensured the welfare of his devotees.

Beyond the power of the mind, intellect and speech was the behaviour of Sai Samarth.

"This is our own, our very own, Dwarakamayee. When you sit on her lap, she gives you full protection, as to a child. And there then remains no cause for worry, at all!

Whatever is in their destiny, so will it happen, most certainly.

Masjidmayee is her name, will she ever go back on her promises?

When danger stalked close to the devotees, Baba would say it stood at his own side.

Baba's words must be respected by keeping implicit trust in him.

Chapter - 22 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 21 Summary

Unless Fortune smiles, one does not meet sadhus and saints. And even when such a one is close at hand, to the great sinner he is not visible.

By his good fortune, he was blessed with Sai Baba's company.

What is needed is a devotion of love.

"Oh! How insincere people are! They will bow at the feet, even offer dakshina, and yet curse you all the time in their heart! How strange indeed!"

The volley of accusations that Baba fired at me, the moment I entered, was really only a warning given to me that I should give no place in my mind to reviling, abusive talk about others.

It was not a volley of censurous remarks, but his grace to teach me that futile debates and discussions, scornful, critical revealing and such wicked thoughts about anyone, should be given up altogether.

Even the most secret matter lies barred before him.

Whatever we do and wherever we may be, nothing escapes Sai's knowledge.

Sai Samarth knew beforehand what calamities were to befall his devotees and he would avert them in the midst of jesting and joking and playful laughter.

📕Chapter - 21 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 20 Summary

A mere darshan of the saints washes away all the sins.

For every word that Baba spoke was a mine of deep significance.

What Baba uttered were not merely words, but were the "Brahmalikhit", not a word of which was in vain and would come true at the proper time.

As is the faith, so is the fruit; as is the faith, so is its power.

Sai's words will never be futile and it was his Promise that he would fulfil the wishes of his devotees.

"Stay where you are and just ask me! Why do you needlessly roam the woods and the wilds searching for answers? I will satisfy your desire (for knowledge). Have this much faith in me.

"My presence fills everyone; there is no place where I am not. And, for the devotion of my devotees, I appear to them anyhow, anywhere. "

Without leaving Shirdi all his life, he yet appeared to his devotees anywhere and everywhere.

📕Chapter - 20 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 19 Summary

He always addressed a grown-up lady, whoever she may be, as "Mother" and an elderly gentleman as 'Kaka', 'Bapu' or 'Bhai'. Such was his charming form of address.

This forbearance is the essence of manliness in a man that overcomes sin, suffering and adversity;  averts disaster ingeniously and drives away all fear.

Without forbearance, the plight of a man is pitiful. Be he a learned Pandit or a virtuous man, without it his life is futile.

You look up to me with single-minded devotion. And I will look after you, similarly. My Guru never taught me anything else."

There should be a steadfast faith that Guru alone is the Protector and the Destroyer.

"If this is not possible, then meditate on my manifest Form. Bring to the mind, by day and by night, my figure from head to foot, with all its attributes.

'Sai is not merely yours or ours, he really dwells in all beings. As the sun belongs to the whole world, so also does he."

📕Chapter - 19 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 18 Summary

Baba, through his instruction, guides each devotee to the true path, according to his level of understanding.

The Guru is like a charged monsoon cloud that happily rains eternal Bliss on one and all.

Guru is the Mother; guru, the Father. When Gods are angry, the guru protects and preserves. But when the Guru is angry, there is no one to protect. Always bear this in mind!

If he takes compassion on you, you will be free from pain and suffering.

By reading this sacred story of the Guru, devotees become pure.

Everyone knows surely, that our mind (being its own enemy) conjures up evils which even our worst enemy will not harbour.

Discipline, here, means regular reading of the book selected. And when it is not completed at ease, never to move from the place leaving that regular worship incomplete.

"Sometimes Baba also tries a man to the utmost; puts his devotion and love to a severe test. Only then will he give him spiritual instruction."

📕Chapter - 18 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 17 Summary

Let your body be the chariot in which you sit calm and steady. Of this chariot (your body), let your intellect be the charioteer. And as for yourself, you sit in this chariot as the Master, with a mind calm and composed.

Then guide the charioteer so as to overcome the various traditional ways of enjoying sensual pleasures, which are difficult to conquer.

Only if the charioteer is skilled and efficient will the horses move vigorously and properly.

Difficulties are removed only by God's grace.

Simple, unquestioning faith alone, succeeds.

He who gives up the desire for the fruit of his actions, and the volition or resolve; who surrenders to the Guru by concentrating his mind on him, will enjoy the full protection of the Sadhguru.

"The temptation of wealth is very difficult to overcome; it is like a dark, deep river-bed of sorrow and suffering, which is full of whirlpools (of avarice) and infested with crocodiles of arrogance and envy, so difficult to battle with. Only he who is free from desire, will survive.

"When anyone asks for anything, the saints first see his spiritual authority and give to each only that which he deserves.

"My treasury is full; I will give to whoever comes and whatever he wants, but first I see the capacity of the taker and give only as much as he can cope with.

"If you listen to this with attention you will achieve your spiritual weal.  Sitting in this sacred mosque, I never speak an untruth."

📕 Chapter - 17 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 16 Summary

A flower, a leaf, when offered with true devotion, will be lovingly accepted by Him. The same, when offered with pride and conceit, he will spurn, turning his head away, at once.

Conquer speech and all other senses; make a firm resolve of the mind; then extinguish the involuntary activity of that mind and hold fast to the intellect.

Actions performed without an expectation of fruit remove the impure, negative tendencies; worship and devotion cleanse the mind of false delusions.

He, who has a never-ending attachment to wealth, can never, even to the end of the world, attain Brahma-jnana. Know this to be a certainty.

📕Chapter 16 - Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 15 Summary

Just as the deep love and devotion of the little ones produces more and more milk in the mother's teats, so also will your single-minded love and attachment to Sai's feet stir Sai's heart to deep compassion.

People keenly desiring something, take a vow that if their wishes are fulfilled they would serve to the Brahmins whatever food they desired, and to their heart's content.

"Your agitated mind when you took the vow, your atonement for the inordinate delay in fulfilling it - all, all have I known, though you wanted to keep it a secret.

"Wherever you all may be, when you spread your hand before me in supplication, with faith and devotion, there I stand behind you, day and night, as steadfast as your faith and devotion is.

"I may be here in physical body, and you may be far away, beyond the seven seas. Yet, whatever you do there, I know it here, instantly.

"An insect, an ant, creatures living in water or moving in the sky, or animals on the land -  a dog or a pig - I pervade them all, most truly and always.

He who reads this chapter with reverence, or makes repeated readings of it regularly, will be freed from all obstacles by Gururaya.

📕Chapter - 15 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 14 Summary

"You may be up to your neck in the sea of obstacles, you may have sunk deep into the great pit of sorrow and suffering, but know, that he who once climbs the steps of this mosque will enjoy the greatest happiness.

"The Fakir of this place is very kind."

"I alone, am; there is not a place where I am not; I pervade all the ten directions.  Nothing exists apart from me.

"Take Baba's darshan, make obeisance at his feet and tell him, in detail, your secret wish. He will bless you.

"When people are in great trouble, they come to Baba's feet and he protects them immediately. This is what I have heard.

"What I want is, one who will love me dearer than his own life. And to such a one, I repay a hundredfold of what he gives me! "

"Allah will fulfil your heart's desire."

📕Chapter - 14 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 13 Summary

"If only you will utter "Sai, Sai" all the time, I will with my grace present you even the seven seas (ie. Protect you even beyond the seven seas). Trust these words of mine and you will achieve your welfare, most certainly.

"I do not need either all the elaborate articles of pooja or the sixteen, even eightfold ceremonies or rites of pooja. Where there is boundless faith, I abide there."

Even in the rotation of wheel of Fortune there seems to be a Divine Plan. Hence no one should imagine it to be otherwise and boast vainly.

To all the good actions and bad, it is God who holds the strings.

"I suggest only one remedy. Hold fast to Sai Baba's feet!

"He is the only Compassionate Mother to all, who will come running at our call for help, will pick us up with a mother's affection and will understand her child's need.

Go and catch Sai's feet tightly.

"Whatever anyone asks him for, he always gives it to him. This is his Promise, to which he is bound. Hence I say, hurry up and take Sai's feet tightly!

📕Chapter - 13 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 12 Summary

Without enmity or friendship, treating rich and poor alike - such was this Sai, the great Mahatma.

Everything came about so easily and effortlessly by just reposing full trust in Sai.

In short, we may make plans, but we know not what has gone before or is to follow after. Only the saints know what is good or bad for us.

Unless Baba himself wished it, he would never give anything to anyone!

Moreover, the words of a saint are never without meaning, but are full of profound significance.

"Whoever may be one's Guru, one must repose one's full and firm trust in him. It should not be placed anywhere else."

📕Chapter 12 - Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 11 Summary

Unruffled, detached as he was, Baba would accept from his devotees the various rituals of pooja - from each according to his faith, and in deference to his feelings.

"Dada, remember, his Guru is a Brahmin, and I, a Muslim. Yet, regarding me to be the same as his own Guru, he offered me Guru-Pooja.

"Even if I seem to be angry with someone, my heart knows no anger.

"I am absolutely in the power of my devotees and stand by their side. For ever I am hungering after love and readily answer their call in distress."

"Shama, you are as a new-born infant as yet! Unless Allah favours him, what can I do?

"Can anyone step up to this mosque without being Allahmiya's debtor? Inscrutable are the ways of this Fakir here. Over Him, I have no control.

"Who do you think you are that you boast vainly in my presence?

You are flaunting the wisdom of your old age! Is this how you read your Quran - that a Pilgrimage to Mecca has made you so proud and haughty?  But you do not know me yet! "

But in times of trouble,  none was of help to the villagers. It was Sai alone - their living God, who came running to their rescue in the hour of need.

📕Chapter - 11 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 10 Summary

All other Gods are illusory,  unreal; the Guru alone is the God Eternal. Once you repose your faith in him, he will help you over even the pre-destined.

Worms and ants, pigs and dogs, birds and even human beings, all great and small, kings or paupers - he looked upon them all equally.

Sometimes he treated people with great affection; sometimes he charged at them, stone in hand. There was a volley of curses and abuses, on occasions,  as there was an embrace of blissful joy on other occasions.

On his lips were the words "Allah Malik".

Baba left his mortal coil on the Vijayaashami day in the month of Aswin, in the year shake eighteen hundred and forty(I.e. October, 15 1918)

It was then that Ramdas took birth. With the help of Shivaji Maharaj he protected the Kingdom, the Brahmins and the sacred cow from the Muslims.

"Even when someone harms you, you should not retaliate;  but do him a good turn, instead, whenever possible. " This was the essence of Baba's teaching.

📕Chapter - 10 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 9 Summary

Everyone knows well, how impossible it was for anyone to climb up the steps of that mosque and take Baba's darshan to his heart's content, against Baba's wishes.

Whatever you send for Baba, and with whosoever you send it, provided it is sent with sincere, heart-felt love, Baba will ask for it, without fail, even if the bearer of that small offering forgets!

Early morning before the sunrise, which is the most perfect time for worship, Tarkad would begin the pooja with this prayer, every day and offer Naivedya at the end.

First feed those who are hungry, then eat yourself. Preserve this truth carefully in your heart."

"Sometimes I am a dog and sometimes a pig; sometimes I am a cow, sometimes a cat, and sometimes an ant, a fly, an aquatic creature - in such various forms do I move about in this world.

📕 Chapter - 9 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 8 Summary

If the life be spent only in the fourfold activity of eating, and drinking, sleep, copulation, then what is the difference between dogs and humans? Think of yourselves and judge.

This body is the outlet of excreta, dirt, phlegm, pus, saliva. Such are the ill-boding qualities it bears.

This human body is the habitation of worms and insects, is a storehouse of various diseases, is mortal and transient.

It is a cart loaded with flesh, blood and muscle, a frame of skin and bone, a stinking pit of excrement and urine, an encumbering appendage of the soul, indeed!

Yet it is the only instrument of attaining God, the home of all sanctity.

Know, that all actions pertaining to the human body, whether evitable or inevitable, are performed with a conscious determination or plan.

Rare indeed is a man who practises forgiveness, calm, detachment, compassion for all beings, benevolence, self-restraint and humility.

What cannot be learnt by reading a book is easily learnt by observing a person in action. The light that the numerous constellations of stars cannot give is given by the sun alone.

He who could make a wealthy man of a pauper by merely lifting an eyebrow, would however go himself from door to door, a jholi in hand.

📕Chapter - 8 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 7 Summary

If He is called a Hindu, he always lived in the mosque, and if He is called a Muslim, the fire burns day and night in the mosque.

Some merit must have been accumulated by us in the previous births, that we have met such a saint, a God incarnate. Hold him firmly in the casket of your heart so that you will not lose him,  till you die.

The words "Allah Malik" were constantly on his lips.

Hemadpant submits totally to Sai and regards himself but a slipper on the feet of Sai devotees. To him, Sai's word is the only Truth, the only standard.

📕Chapter 7 - Shri Sai Satcharita.

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 6 Summary

Whenever ego raises its head, he firmly presses it underneath his own hand. In addition, by pouring his grace into the devotee, he brings fulfilment to him.

May all the senses be seized by a devotional passion and the sensual desires be so transformed as to sprout into devotional worship, instead! Oh, how wonderful it would then be!

A contented mind is the surest mark of being in saintly company.

📕Chapter - 6 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 5 Summary

Indestructible and ancient that Sai is, he is neither Hindu nor Muslim. He has no caste, no descent, no family, no Gotra.

"Poverty holds the highest sovereignty,  - a thousand times greater than the grandeur of the nobleman.  Allah befriends the poor.", so would Sai say, always.

He who wants to attain his highest good must conduct himself without conceit or ego.

The bodily functions of a realized soul work out according to his past Karma.

By merely listening to this sacred story, all the sins will be destroyed.

📕Chapter - 5 Shri Sai Samartha Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 4 Summary

I am but a speck of dust from your feet, and am not ashamed of entreating you for the favour of your attention.

When men look upon wealth,  honour, wife and children as the only source of happiness and turn away from the spiritual path, then it is that the saints appear on this earth.

The tongue, no doubt, experiences the sweetness of sugar, but cannot convey the experience to others. In the same way, I know not how to describe the virtues of Sai.

To which ashram (Stage of Life) he belonged was something beyond human speculation.

📕Chapter - 4 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 3 Summary

"You do your own part well; have not the least hesitation in your mind. Trust my words fully and make a firm resolve in the mind."

I grant all the wishes of him who chants my name with love and faith, which, in turn, enhances his devotion to me.

"So that,  he who fondly sings my praises or narrates the story of my life will always see me standing in front of him and behind, and everyone around him.

"Whoever sings my praises in a kirtan, to him I shall give total, perfect happiness, peace and contentment, always. This is my promise.

"A mere prostration before me is enough to destroy the past sins of speech and hearing. "

📕Chapter - 3 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 2 Summary

In short, it is Sai, who is getting his own "Life" narrated through an ignorant fool like me.

Sages and saints, or even God Himself, narrates His own story, by placing his hand of benediction on the head of him, whom he chooses (as an instrument).

Sai's "Life" is a great ocean - boundless, infinite,  a mine of precious gems; which I, a tiny Titwi (Lapwing) bird is endeavouring to empty. How can this ever come about?

I am but the instrument moving mechanically,  as Baba guides.

Those who have not had the actual darshan of Baba, to pacify their eyes, may at least gain some merit by listening to the stories of his greatness.

Once the ego is surrendered at Baba's feet, boundless joy will ensue. As the ego is overcome, the whole life will be filled with happiness.

"Listening to my stories, narrating them to others in a kirtan, contemplating on them will propagate love and devotion for me, which will destroy ignorance, instantly.

"Wherever there is faith and devotion together, I remain enslaved forever. Have no doubt about this. But otherwise, I always remain unattainable.

📕Chapter - 2 Shri Sai Satcharita

Shri Sai Satcharitra -- Chapter 1 Summary

Jai sai ram.

The Invocation of the Divine

My obeisance to shri Ganesh, To shri Saraswathi, and shri Guru Maharaj! To the Family Deity, To Shri sita-Ramachandra, My most Humble Obeisance! I bow in reverence to the most venerable Guru Shri Sainath!

Just one glance from you is enough to drive away all want and poverty.

It is, as if Sai Himself, as Bhagavati, as goddess Saraswathi, holds the Omkar-veena in hand and sings His own Life-story for the deliverance of His devotees!

With devotion, offer at the Sadhguru's feet your body, mind, and worldly wealth, - everything, and dedicate your entire life in the service of the Guru.

Guru's company is the pure water of the Ganges which purifies others, washing away all their impurities.

No one understood Baba's intention, at first, and the reason for his actions appeared to be beyond one's understanding.

Chapter - 1 Shri Sai Satcharita.

Original Photographs of Sai Baba - 1

The original photograph of the Dhuni taken in 1936 by the Late Shri.D.D.Neroy from Pune.

Rare conversation between Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa & Swami Vivekananda

A rare conversation between Ramkrishna Paramahansa & Swami Vivekananda 

Read it loud to family, it's one of  the best message I have come across...

1. Swami Vivekanand:- I can’t find free time. Life has become hectic.

Ramkrishna Paramahansa:- Activity gets you busy. But productivity gets you free.

2. Swami Vivekanand:- Why has life become complicated now?

Ramkrishna Paramahansa:- Stop analy

Dogs in Heaven

A universal story from Hindu mythology about dharma.

There is a very beautiful story from the Hindu mythology's Mahabharata that provides an insight to the meaning of our existence.

Five brothers who were kings and their wife, the queen (this happened through a misunderstanding of the concept

The way to Enlightenment

Once, a disciple approached his Guru saying, “Master, please enlighten me with some knowledge!” The Guru was seated outside a cave. He said patronizingly, “Child, it is getting dark outside. I shall teach you inside the cave dwelling. Please go inside and light the small lamp lying inside.” The disciple entered the cave with a matchbox in hand, located the lamp and tried to light it. He struck many matches but the lamp would not be lit. He emptied the matchbox but remained unsuccessful in his attempts.

He reported to the Guru, “Master, this lamp is not lighting.” Guru asked, “Why it is so? Let me have a look at the lamp.” The lamp was brought to him and he asked the disciple to check if it was filled with oil or something else. The disciple then discovered that it was water that was in the lamp and not oil. And as the wick was soaked in water, it would not burn.

The Guru instructed him, “First, throw the water out and squeeze water out of the wick; next, pour some oil and also soak the wick in the oil. Then light it. It will surely burn brightly.” The disciple followed the instructions and was successful in lighting the lamp. Once the lamp was lit, the Guru turned silent.

The disciple waited a while and asked, “Master, you said you would enlighten me with knowledge. When will you do that?” The Guru replied, “I have been doing that all the while. Didn’t you understand?” The disciple was confused. The Guru then explained, “How can the flame of knowledge be kindled if the lamp of your heart is filled with the water of worldly and materialistic impressions, and your mind, the wick, is soaked in materialistic ideas?

First, drain out from your heart all affinity to the physical world. Free your mind too of such ideas. Fill yourself with God’s love. Then I will kindle the flame by initiating you with God’s name. That itself will be the flame of knowledge. On the contrary, without love for God and with a heart filled with worldliness, how can I enlighten you?” 

Respect Yourself

A devotee forwarded this story and requested to post this on this site:

A man went to Guru Nanak Sahib and asked, "What's the value of life?" Gurunanak ji gave him one stone and said, "Find out the value of this stone, but don't sell it." The man took the stone to an Orange Seller and asked him what its cost would be. The Orange Seller saw the shiny stone and said, "You ca take 12 oranges and

SAI's way of removing EGO

An egoistic sadhu puffed up with pride visited Shirdi for SAI darshan. On seeing the sadhu, SAI told him, "I AM WELL. THANK YOU. BY THE WAY, DO YOU MIND BRINGING ME RS 400/- FROM UPASANI MAHARAJ AT THE KHANDOBA TEMPLE? I NEED THE MONEY BADLY." "Sure," replied the sadhu and off he went.

On reaching Khandoba Temple, the sadhu haughtily demanded, "Give me Rs 400 at once. SAI has sent me to you." Upasani flared up, caught the sadhu by the neck and beat him black and blue and then said, "Have you got your Rs 400? Now get lost." The shell-shocked sadhu rushed back to SAI and narrated all that happened at Khandoba's.

SAINATH simply smiled and said, "ITS GOOD THAT YOU GOT  RS 400 BY UPASANI. HAD I GONE AND ASKED MYSELF THE MAHARAJ MAY NOT HAVE GIVEN. YOU ARE INDEED LUCKY." The sadhu understood that all this took place only to crush his ego. Taking SAI'S blessings, the sadhu left Shirdi in all humility.

Shirdi Sai Baba Statue in Samadhi Mandir

Seventh October is the anniversary of consecration  Shirdi Baba statue in Shirdi. It was a huge turning point for Shirdi when the Shirdi Sansthan decided to put a statue on 7th October`1954, Vijayadashami Day - 36 years after Baba's Mahasamadhi.

HERE IS A BRIEF STORY BEHIND THE STATUE :

In 1952, a piece of a White Italian Marble had arrived from Italy

MARTAND : Son of Bhagat Mhalsapathy

SHRI SAINATH told Bhagat Mhalsapathy, "ARRE BHAGAT, LISTEN TO MY FAKIRI WORDS WHICH ARE EVER TRUE. YOU HAVE ONLY DAUGHTERS BUT NO SONS. A SON IS A MANGO FRUIT, WHEREAS A DAUGHTER IS A TAMARIND FRUIT. GO AND STAY IN YOUR HOUSE. ALLAH WILL BLESS YOU WITH A SON." 

This was on Janmashtami 1896 AD. Mhalsapathy  left the Masjid and began staying in his house and on Janmashtami 1897 AD, a son was born in his family and was named Martand. So that Bhagat may not get too attached to his son, SHRI SAI told him, "LOOK AFTER YOUR SON FOR 25 YEARS. THAT IS ENOUGH." Little did Mhalsa know that 25 years meant the end of his own life after that. Bhagat attained Nirvana on 11.09.1922,  25 years after his son Martand was born.

Martand, like his father continued to worship KHANDOBA while also serving SAI. He was just 21 when SAINATH attained Mahasamadhi in 1918. Martand attained nirvana on 14-11-1986 aged 89. Humble Pranams to both!

Without thinking of God, how can we expect God to come to us?

There are two types of Sadhana (spiritual pursuits).

"The owner / master stays on the top floor of the mansion. There is a huge Alsatian dog near the entrance gate. To enter into the mansion, either we need to befriend the Alsatian dog and bring it under our control or we need to call out loudly to the master of the mansion. Unless we do one of these it will not be possible for us to meet the master. What is this Alsatian dog? It represents maya (delusion). We need to either control this maya (delusion) or we need to call out loudly to the Master (God) by chanting his name loudly.

If we chant the name of God loudly, He will “come down” from where He is currently residing. Along with the Master (God), we can easily enter the mansion. Even the Alsatian dog (maya / delusion) will not affect us in any way. Therefore, to reach God we must do Naamasmarana (chanting of the name of the Lord). Under any circumstances, be it chanting loudly outside or silently within, we need to keep God in our heart and install Him there. The human heart is the true altar of the Divine.

BABA RESTORED THE STOLEN PROPERTY OF SHRI VAMAN CHINTAMAN MUNGE VAKIL

Shri Vamanii Chintaman Munge, Vakil of Pimpal-gaon Baswant, Nashik District when plague was pre­vailing in Pimpalgaon Baswant, he shifted his residence to his house in his estate (i.e.) in his lands. One day night, thieves came there, made a whole and entered the house particularly in the place where Munge, was sleeping in a cot. Baba's photo was also hanging on the wall. The thief has lifted a small box under the cot and passed on to another thief stand­ing outside the house. The small box contained a cash of Rs. 200/-