Category: Art of living

Chapter 35 of the “Shri Sai Sat Charitra” provides several important tips and teachings for daily living, conveyed through Sai Baba’s words and actions. These include:

• Overcoming the sense of differentiation: Sai Baba advised a friend of Kakasaheb Mahajani to “destroy the Teli’s (Adjacent oil store) wall (sense of difference) between us, so that we can see and meet each other face to face”. This highlights the importance of removing perceived distinctions between individuals and fostering a sense of unity in one’s interactions and outlook.
• Cultivating steady faith and avoiding a fickle mind: To a “fickle-minded gentleman” (referring to Kaka Mahajani’s master, Mr. Thakkar), Baba advised: “Now please keep your faith on any one place (point) you like, why roam like this? Stick quietly to one place”. This emphasizes the need for steadfastness and focus in one’s spiritual or daily pursuits, rather than being swayed by various anxieties or external circumstances.
• Understanding the spiritual significance of giving (Dakshina): Baba explained that His practice of asking for Dakshina was not for personal gain but to teach devotees about renunciation and purification. He stated that wealth should be used to “work out Dharma” (righteous conduct) and that if it is used only for personal enjoyment, it is wasted. He further taught that “The best way to receive is to give” and that “The giving of Dakshina advances Vairagya (Non-attachment) and thereby Bhakti and Jnana. Give one and receive tenfold“. This provides a profound insight into the spiritual benefits of charity and detachment.
• Embodying non-attachment and transcending dualities: Baba’s own conduct served as an example; He was “totally non-attached” to worldly praise or disregard, remaining unaffected by “pleasure and pain”. This illustrates the principle of living with detachment, not being excessively elated by positive experiences nor depressed by negative ones.
• The power and efficacy of Udi with faith: The story of Mrs. Newaskar, who faced a food shortage, demonstrates that when Udi (sacred ashes) is used with intense faith (“As one feels intently, so he realizes accordingly”), difficulties can be overcome, and needs can be met. This suggests that faith in Baba’s grace and His Udi can bring about practical solutions in daily life.
• Perceiving God in all beings: Balaji Patil’s response to a serpent, which he believed to be Sai Baba, exemplifies the spiritual practice of seeing God or divinity in all creatures. His fearless and devotional approach to the serpent, offering it milk, highlights that recognizing the divine in everything leads to fearlessness and compassion.

Additionally, while not directly “tips given” by Baba in this chapter, the narrative also shows:

• The effectiveness of worshipping Baba’s picture with faith and devotion for overcoming personal troubles like insomnia, as seen in the Bandra Insomnia Case.
• The value of disinterested service and complete surrender to the Guru, as exemplified by Balaji Patil Newaskar, who dedicated his efforts and possessions to Baba.