His birthplace / Three incarnations / Sarvadharma Symbol / Why I have come

 

His birthplace

Sathya Sai Baba [23-11-1926] is the second of three incarnations of the Sai Avatâr.  The first was Shirdi Sai Baba, [1835] who left his mortal body in 1918, after teaching the unity of God and brotherhood of man His whole life. In particular, He did this among the Hindu- and Muslim-communities in Central India, who on their side considered Him as one of them.

Sathyanarayana Raju, as Sai Baba was named, was born on November 23, 1926, [at 6:36 hours a.m.] in a small remote village called Puttaparthi in the South of India, approximately 160 km north of Bangalore. There is now His Âs'ram named Prasanthi Nilayam, which means: Place of Supreme Peace. In Whitefield, about 25 km of Bangalore, Baba also has an Âs'ram where He regularly stays. This Âs'ram is called Brindavan (after Vrindâvana, the town of Vrindâvana in the Mathurâ District of Uttar Pradesh, India, where Krishna appeared five thousand years ago).

Bhagavân Swami left His body on April 24, at 7.40 a.m. in Puttaparthi in the hospital Śrî Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, Super Speciality Hospital, which He had built for the common Indian, close to His ashram Prasanthi Nilayam.

 

 

He came into the world with all knowledge, wisdom, power and divine love. Unlike self-realized saints, He did not have to practice disciplines or austerities to achieve his divinity. Although Sai Baba only attended school to the age of thirteen, he has complete mastery of the scriptures, of all the sciences, arts, languages - of all fields of study. As a matter of fact, he knows everything - including the past, present and future of all of our lives.

The center of activities there is S'rî Sathya Sai Baba Himself, who has attracted an enormous number of people, through His unique, personal presence since His early youth. He can only be described as the embodiment of pure, unselfish love, of perfect peace and bliss, the essence of kindness.

Through Him all noble, human qualities become visible; He carries and unites all divine qualities which are characteristics of the Avatâra.

Sathya Sai Baba is the Avatâra of this era. Avatâr means: Embodiment of God on earth. He has come again as a world teacher to lead mankind on the right path in this critical time [Kali Yuga].

Sathya Sai Baba has millions of followers in India, as well as in many countries around the world. He has incarnated at this time to restore truth, righteousness, peace and love in the world and to transform all our hearts so that we can experience that we, too, are divine.

For a full account of Sai Baba's life, see N. Kasturi's Biography entitled 'Sathyam, Sivam Sundaram' also available as a download and Kasturi's poem at this site.

"I have the task to lead mankind in her development and to assure all human beings of an existence full of happiness and joy. I have promised that I shall rescue all who roam about uselessly, and bring them back to goodness." - Sathya Sai Baba

Nature obeys His will. He has all knowledge. He knows the past, presence and future of everybody. In His teachings Sai Baba acknowledges all religions. He emphasizes again and again that divinity means unity. In his personal style and expression Bhagavân Baba shows a majestical grace and at the same time a delightful cheerfulness.

Among His many devotees who surround Him, He leads a simple and humble life, completely devoted to loving helpfulness. Not restricted to only physical existence, He works on all levels: the gross matter and the spiritual nature. He does this in His physical form as well as in visions, dreams and inner experiences. As a divine teacher, He leads the spiritual development of His devotees, He inspires inwardly and arranges outwardly. He illuminates the heart, transforms the mind and reveals the biggest treasure.... the immortal Âtmâ, the divine sparkle in every human being.

Three incarnations

Sai Baba says that He will stay in the present quality as Sathya Sai Baba within the 21st century and will reach the age of 95. He had predicted to reach the age of 94 or 95 years, but died at the age of 85 years according to our chronology. But when one divides the number of his days by the number of days belonging to a lunar month (17.3) and divides the result with twelve one counts exactly 94,7 years.

Sathya Sia Baba has said that He will be reborn as the third and last incarnation as Prema Sai Baba, who will finish the avatâra-mission started in the middle of the 19th century.
"Once Swami pointing to Himself told my mother: "This fruit will be born in Channapatna region of Mysore State (now Karnataka)".
Source: Sri Sathya Sai ANANDADAYI - Journey with Sai, by Karunamba Ramamurthy (kanamma).

 

From left to right: Shirdi Sai (1836-1918),
(middle) Prema Sai, (----,----) and Sathya Sai (1926-2011)
More about Prema Sai

 

Sai Baba has two Âs'rams in the south of India, one in Puttaparthi and one in Whitefield, where hundred-thousands of people from all over the world come together to experience His Love and to receive His blessing. However, He has not come to this earth to establish a new religion or sect. On the contrary, he emphasizes the unity of all religions. About this, He stresses:

"I have come to tell you about this Universal Unity, this Inner Self-principle, this Path of Love. All religions teach a basic-discipline: to remove the stains of egoism and the chasing of material satisfaction out of the soul. Every religion teaches the human being to fill his mind with the glory of God and to drive out narrow-minded arrogance. Be convinced that the one and only God is the indweller of all hearts; One can worship Him the best through Love. Develop the inner attitude that people of every religion from all over the world are One. That is the message of Love I bring." - Sathya Sai Baba

As a teacher He leads the spiritual development of all who turn to Him - by now, more than hundred million people, worldwide - and inspires people inwardly as well as outwardly. He has set up several schools and universities, where education is given totally for free. Also, He has built hospitals in several places where everybody receives free care and medication. One of the most modern hospitals has been established in Puttaparthi, the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences - Prasanthigram. Also here, every treatment is completely given free of charge.

The name Sathya Sai Baba is significant. Sai means: Godly Mother, Baba: Honored Father, and Sathya: Truth. His mission: to bring back truth in all hearts, to regain righteousness all over the world.

"There is only one religion, the religion of Love. There is only one caste, the caste of mankind. There is only one language, the language of the heart. There is only one God and He is omnipresent." - Sathya Sai Baba

 


 

Sarva-dharma Symbol

The sarva-dharma symbol is the symbol of the Sathya Sai Organization. Sarva: all, Dharma: divine law, is equal to religion.

The first sarva-dharma symbol stands for a lotus flower with six leafs, with in every leaf the symbol for a world religion. Together these symbols represent all religions in the world.

 

The Pillar: the pillar (lotus) in the middle expresses the path of unity with God, with the several steps and phases one has to go forward. The blooming lotus is the heart that blossoms in love; this results in the flower of enlightenment.

 

 

Hinduism: (the AUM/OHM-sign) Actually sanâthana-dharma = eternal divine law. God is One, but the wise call Him with various names (the Gods are many aspects of the one God). Some names are: Is'vara, Krishna, Râma, etc., Paramâtmâ or Brahman. "Listen to the primeval Pranava AUM resounding in your heart as well in the heart of the Universe".

 

Buddhism: (the wheel) The soul of a religion does not lie in theory or dogmas, but in the way of living. The Buddhists, even so the Jains, do not accept the existence of God in a certain or immediate way. They believe that the maximum stage a human being can reach is the stage of the Buddha. He, the Kevalin or Mukta (the liberated) or the Buddha, the embodiment of love and wisdom, is divine. "Remember the Wheel of Cause and Consequence, of Deed and Destiny and the Wheel of Dharma that rights them all".

 

Parseeism: (the fire vessel) Ahura Mazda (= light): dwells in the heart of human beings. Fire, wide at the basis and pointed at the top. In this way, also the differences disappear at the highest divine level. The devotees of Zoroaster call their God the most holiest principle in the universe. Ahura Mazda, the God of truth, wisdom en enlightenment. (Zoroaster: Founder of the ancient Persian religion Zoroastrianism. The sacred text called the Gaathas were revealed to him while in deep meditation. Ahur Mazda is the name for the Supreme). "Offer all bitterness in the sacred Fire and emerge grand, great and godly".

 

Islam: (the crescent moon with star) Islam means literally surrendering. There is no God than God (and Mohammed is his prophet). The Muslims call God Allah, the merciful, the compassionate, the unique Lord of creation. "Be like the Star which never wavers from the Crescent but is fixed in steady faith".

 

Christianity: (the cross) Let your ego die on the cross. The life of Jesus: 'I am the messenger of God. I am the son of God. I and the Father are One'. "Cut the 'I' feeling clean across and let your ego die on the Cross, to endow on you Eternity".

 

Judaism: (the star of David) Hear Israel: The Lord our Lord is One.

 

Sai Baba teaches us to respect our own religion in which we were raised and honor other religions. Let the various religions exist, let them bloom and let God's glory be sung in all languages and varieties. That must be the ideal goal.

Respect the differences between the religions and acknowledge them as valuable as long as they do not extinguish the flame of unity. You can search for God in churches and temples as the mystery of all mysteries, you will find Him at last in the deepest silence of your own heart.

 'If God brings you to it,
He will bring you through it.
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God'

Bhagavân S'rî Sathya Sai Baba on Himself - Why I have come

Excerpts from an address by Sathya Sai Baba to his devotees on his 43rd birthday, November 23, 1968:

    "For the protection of the virtuous, for the destruction of evil-doers, and for establishing righteousness on a firm footing, I incarnate from age to age. When disharmony overwhelms the world, the Lord will incarnate in human form to establish the modes of earning peace, and to reeducate the human community in the paths of peace."

    "Spiritual aspirants prayed and I have come. My main tasks are fostering of the Vedas (Hindu scriptures) and fostering of the devotees. Your virtue, your self-control, your detachment, your faith, your steadfastness: these are the signs by which people read of my glory."

     "Every step in the career of the Avatar is pre-determined.
Rama came to feed the roots of truth and right conduct.
Krishna came to foster peace and love. Now, all these four are in danger of being dried up. That is why the present Avatar has come."

     "I have come to give you the key of the treasure of bliss, to teach you how to rap that spring, for you have forgotten the way to blessedness."

     "Bring something into your daily practice as evidence of your having known the secret of the higher life from Me. Show that you have greater brotherliness. Speak with more seetness and selfcontrol. Bear defeat as well as victory with calm resignation."

     "My acts are the foundations on which I am building My work, the task for which I have come. All the miraculous acts which you observe are to be interpreted so."

     "The establishment of righteousness: that is My aim. The teaching of righteousness, the spread of righteousness: that is My object. These miracles, as you call them, are just a means toward that end."

     "These yogic powers are just in de nature of the Avatar - The creation of things with intent to protect and to give joy is spontaneous and lasting. Creation, preservation, and dissolution can be accomplished only by the Almighty - no-one else."

     "Running after external things produces all this discontent. That type of desire has no end. Once you have become a slave to the senses, they will not leave hold until you are dead. It is an unquenchable thirst. But I call you to Me and even grant worldly boons so that you may turn Godward. No Avatar has done this before, going among the masses, counseling them, guiding them, consoling them, uplifting them, and directing them among the path of truth, righteousness, peace and love."

     "If you give all and surrender to the Lord, he will guard you and guide you. The Lord has come for just this task. He is declaring that he will do so and that it is the very task that has brought Him here. I know the agitations of your heart and its aspirations, but you do not know My heart. I react to the pain that you undergo, and to the joy that you feel, for I am in your heart. I am the dweller in the temple of every heart. Do not lose contact and company, for it is only when the coal is in contact with the live embers that it can also become live ember."

     "Cultivate a nearness with Me in the heart and it will be rewarded. Then you, too, will acquire a fraction of that supreme love. This is a great chance. Be confident that you will all be liberated. Know that you are saved. Many hesitate to believe that things will improve, that life will be happy for all and full of joy, and that the golden age will recur. Let Me assure you that this divine body has not come in vain. It will succeed in averting the crisis that has come upon humanity."



     "The Avatar behaves in a human way so that mankind can feel kinship, but rises into his superhuman heights so that mankind can aspire to reach the heights, and through that aspiration actually reach him. Realizing the Lord within you as the motivator is the task for which He comes in human form."

     "I have come to light the lamp of love in your hearts, to see that it shines day by day with added lustre. I have not come to speak on behalf of any particular dharma (religion), like Hinduism. I have not come on any mission of publicity for any sect or creed or cause; nor have I come to collect followers for any doctrine. I have no plan to attract disciples or devotees into My fold or any fold. I have come to tell you of this Universal unitary faith, this Atmic principle (principle of the spirit), this path of love." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 4th July 1968 in Nairobi (Kenya, East Africa). Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - VIII, Chapter - 22. Page: 118.

     "This Sai has come in order to achieve the supreme task of uniting the entire mankind as one family through the bond of brotherhood, of affirming and illumining the Atmic Reality (Reality of the Spirit) of each being, in order to reveal the divine which is the basis on which the entire cosmos rests, and of instructing all to recognise the common divine heritage that binds man to man, so that man can rid himself of the animal in him, and rise into the Divine, which is his goal." - 19th June 1974 in 'Brindavan', Bangalore. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII. Chapter - 38. Page: 229.

     The Message I Bring. "All religions teach one basic discipline - the removal of the blemish of egoism from the mind, restraining it from running after trivial joys. Every religion teaches man to fill his being with the Glory of God, and evict the pettiness of conceit. It trains him in methods of detachment and discrimination so that he may aim high and attain liberation. Believe that all hearts are motivated by the one God; that all faiths glorify Him alone; that all names in all languages, and all the forms man can conceive denote the same divine principle; His adoration is best done by means of love. Cultivate that eka-bhava (attitude of Oneness) among men of all creeds, all countries and all continents. That is the message of love, I bring. That is the message I wish you to take to heart." - 4th July 1968 in Nairobi (Kenya, East Africa). Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - VIII, Chapter - 22. Page: 118

     "I have come to help all to acquire this sattvic (serene) nature. You might have heard people talk about My miracles, of My creating this and giving that, of my fulfilling all your wants, of My curing your illnesses. But they are not as important as the satva guna (state of serenity and calmness) I appreciate, promote and instill. Of course, I confer on you these boons of health and prosperity, but only so that you might, with greater enthusiasm and with less interruption, proceed with spiritual sadhana (pursuit)." - 25th July 1958 in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- I, Chapter - 11. Page: 62-63.

     I have not come to start a new cult. "You must have noticed that I do not speak about Sai in My discourses, nor do I sing of Sai during the Bhajan with which I usually conclude My discourses. And you must have wondered why. Let me tell you the reason. I do not want the impression to gain ground that I desire this Name and this Form to be publicised. I have not come to start a new cult, I do not want people to be misled on this point. I affirm that this form of Sai contains within it the forms associated with all the names that man uses for the adoration of the divine. So, I teach that no distinction should be made between the names Râma, Krishna, Is'vara, Sai - for they are all My names." - on 17th May 1968 in Mumbai. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII. Chapter - 19. Page: 95-96. On the occasion of the World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII. Chapter - 19. Page: 95-96

     Do not propagate My Name. "I do not have the slightest intention to utilise the Seva Samithis (Service Organisations) for propagating My Name. No! I am content only when spiritual endeavors and disciplines to elevate and purify man progress everywhere. It is only through these practices that My universal reality will be revealed. So, do not limit Me to the boundaries of any one name and form.

Your aim should be to see the same God in all the Forms that are worshipped, to adore Him in all the Names, nay, to be conscious of His presence as the inner motivator of every living being, in every particle of matter. Do not fall into the error of considering some to be men worthy of reverence and some unworthy. Sai is in everyone; so, all deserve your reverence and service. Propagate this truth; that is the function I assign to the Seva Samithis (Service Organisations)." - From Bhagawan's Discourse on the occasion of World Conference of Shri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, - on 17th May, 1968 in Mumbai. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII, Chapter-19. Page: 96

     No annihilation now, only transformation. "Râma, Krishna and other Avatârs had to kill one or more individuals who could be identified as enemies of the dharmic (righteous) way of life, and thus restore the practice of virtue. But, now, there is no one entirely good, and so who deserves the protection of God? All are tainted by wickedness, and so who will survive if the Avatâr decides to destroy the wicked?

Therefore, I have to correct the buddhi (intellect), by various means; I have to counsel, help, command, condemn and stand by as a friend and well-wisher to all, so that they may give up evil propensities, and recognising the straight path, tread it and reach the goal. I have to reveal to the people the worth of the Vedas, the S'âstras (India's ancient scriptures) and the other scriptural texts, which lay down the norms of sacred living." - on 23rd Nov 1964, in Prashanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - IV, Chapter - 38. Page: 224-225

     I am determined to correct you. "Let me tell you, it is only those who know the scriptures, that can understand Me. I am determined to correct you only after informing you of my credentials. That is why I announce My Nature by means of miracles - that is, acts which are beyond human capacity and human understanding. Not that I am anxious to show off My powers. The object is to draw you closer to Me, to cement your hearts to Me. Getting to know Me is also a part of your destiny." - on 24th Nov 1961 in Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - II, Chapter-26. Page: 140-141.

     I only Echo. "If you accept Me and say yes, I too respond and say "yes, yes, yes!" If you deny Me and say "no", I also echo "no". Come, examine, experience and have faith; that is the method of utilizing Me." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 23rd Nov 1964, 8 PM, in Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - IV, Chapter - 38. Page: 226

     Why should the Lord Himself incarnate? When people forget the One and run after the world, there can be no love, no sacrifice and no spirit of detachment and hence there is a decline in dharma. It is then that the Lord takes human form and comes among men to restore their sense of values. You may ask, why should the Lord Himself incarnate? Why can He not set about the task of restoring dharma through the many minor gods He has at His command?
This question was placed before the courtiers by Akbar himself for, he laughed at the Hindu idea of the Formless adopting Form, and descending into the world as an Avatâra to save dharma. Tansen asked for a week's time to furnish the answer and got it granted by His Imperial Majesty. A few days later, when he was in the pleasure boat of the Emperor sailing across the lake with the royal family, Tansen cleverly threw overboard a doll made to look like the Emperor's little son, crying at the same time, "Oh, the prince has fallen into the water!" Hearing this, the Emperor jumped into the lake to rescue his son'!
Tansen then disclosed that it was only a doll and that the prince was safe. He allayed the anger of Akbar by explaining that he had perforce to enact this drama in order to demonstrate the truth of the Hindu belief that God takes human form to save Dharma, without commissioning some other entity to carry out that task. Dharma is the son that God loves so dearly. Akbar could have ordered the many personnel he had on board to jump in and rescue his son; but his affection was so great and the urgency so acute that the Emperor himself plunged into the lake to pull out the 'son'.
The decline of Dharma is so acute. The decline of Dharma is so acute a tragedy; the intensity of affection that the Lord has for good men is so great that He Himself comes. The Lord is Love itself. He comes in human form so that you can talk to Him, move with Him, serve Him, adore Him, and achieve oneness with Him, so that you can recognise your kinship with Him." -
Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 13th Dec 1964 in Venkatagiri, on the occasion of Prashaanthi Vidwan Mahaasabha. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- IV, Chapter - 45. Page: 262-263.

     The pious prayed, and I have come. "The Lord comes as the Avatâra when He is anxiously awaited by saints and sages. Sadhus (the pious) prayed, and I have come. My tasks are primarily two: Veda Rakshana and Bhakta Rakshana - fostering of the Vedas (ancient Indian spiritual scriptures) and fostering of bhaktas (devotees)." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 25th Jan 1963 in Prashanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- III, Chapter - 1. Page: 9-10.

     Dive deep, get immersed. "You must dive deep into the sea to get at the pearls. What good is it to dabble among the waves near the shore and swear that the sea has no pearls in it? So also if you aspire to benefit from the Avatâra, dive deep and get immersed in Him. Half-heartedness, hesitation, doubt, cynicism, listening to tales, etc. are all of no avail.
Unflinching faith - that alone can bring victory. This is true to any worldly activity, is it not? How much more true must it be, therefore in the spiritual field? But if you have already attached yourselves to a particular Name and Form, do not change it, do not choose another in its place." -
Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 10th July 1959, Bangalore on the occasion of Akhanda Bhajan. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - I, Chapter - 21. Page: 130-131.

     I have not come for propaganda… "I have not come for propaganda or publicity or gathering disciples or devotees. I am yours and you are Mine. Where then is the need for publicity? I do not give lectures but 'mixtures' for your mental health and moral re-invigoration. So take My words as medicine for your spiritual health." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 25th June 1960, Gokhale Hall, Chennai. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - I, Chapter - 26. Page: 165.

     This human body has not come in vain. "Many hesitate to believe that things will improve, that everyone will be happy and joyful, that the Golden Age will ever dawn. Let me assure you that this Dharma Svarupa (personification of Righteousness) has not come in vain. It will succeed in averting the crisis that has come upon humanity." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 3rd March 1965, Prashanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - V, Chapter - 11. Page: 70.

     Who is Sai. I am the embodiment of Love. "I am the embodiment of Love; Love is My instrument. There is no creature without Love; the lowest loves itself, at least. And its self is divine too. So, there are no atheists, though some might dislike Him or refuse Him, as malarial patients dislike sweets or diabetic patients refuse to have anything to do with sweets! Those who preen themselves as atheists will one day, when their illness is gone, relish God and revere Him.
I had to tell you so much about My Truth, for, I desire that you should contemplate on this and derive joy therefrom, so that you may be inspired to observe the disciplines laid down by Me and progress towards the Goal of Self-realisation, the Realisation of the Sai that shines in your hearts."
- 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII. Chapter - 38. Page: 229.

     I am neither man nor God… "I am neither man nor God nor an astral spirit; I am neither a brahmin (the priestly class), nor a kshathriya (the warrior class), nor a vais'ya (the business class), nor a s'űdra (the working class); The appellations of brahmacharî (celibate) or house-holder, or recluse or monk do not describe Me; I am the Sathya Bodhaka, a Teacher of Truth, as Sathyam (Truth), Shivam (Goodness) and Sundaram (Beauty). Your reality too is Sathyam, Shivam and Sundaram.
Without truth there cannot be goodness; without goodness, what does beauty avail? The effect of truth on the mind is goodness; the joy that flows from goodness is the genuine beauty that artists love. The three are really one and indivisible. Experience this truth; this truth as goodness and this goodness as beauty. That gives the highest Bliss."
- 6th March 1970 in Prashanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. X, Chapter - 7. Page: 33.

     Every divine principle is manifest in this form. "This is a human form in which every divine entity, every divine principle, that is to say, all the names and forms ascribed by man to God, are manifest.... Do not allow doubt to distract you; if you only install, in the altar of your heart, steady faith in my divinity, you can win the vision of my reality. Instead, if you swing like the pendulum of a clock, one moment towards devotion and another towards doubt, you can never succeed in comprehending the truth and win that bliss. You are very fortunate that you have a chance to experience the bliss of the vision of the Sarvadaivathwa swaroopam (the form that is all forms of the Gods) now, in this life itself." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 17th May 1968 in Mumbai on the occasion of the World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII. Chapter - 19. Page: 99-100.

     Supra-worldly divinity in Human form. "…Let Me draw your attention to another fact. On previous occasions when God incarnated on earth, the bliss of recognising His Divine nature was vouchsafed only after the Avatâra had left the world, in spite of plenty of patent evidences of His grace. And the loyalty and devotion they commanded from men arose through fear and awe, at their superhuman powers and skills, or at their imperial and penal authority.
But, ponder a moment on this Sathya Sai Manifestation; in this age of rampant materialism, aggressive disbelief and irreverence, what is it that brings to It the adoration of millions from all over the world? You will be convinced that the basic reason for this is the fact that this is the Supra-worldly Divinity in Human form." -
Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 17th May 1968 in Mumbai, on the occasion of the World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII. Chapter - 19. Page: 100.

      You cannot understand the nature of my Reality. "Since at this place those who have devotion are gathered and people of all nations have come, I cannot but tell you one fact. World conferences dedicated to religion or spirituality have no doubt been held before; also, conferences of followers of particular faiths. But these have been held only after the demise of the founders and divine inspirers. This is the very first time that a World Conference is held, of persons devoted, while the incarnation is present before every one, with the body assumed for the purpose, bearing the name that is chosen for it by Itself.
I must tell you this fact, because ninety-nine persons out of hundred among you do not know my Reality. You have come here drawn by diverse needs, a taste for spiritual matters, eagerness to develop the institutions to which you are attached, admiration or affection, love or reverence or a spurt of enthusiasm to join others and share with others your own exultation.
In truth, you cannot understand the nature of my Reality either today or even after a thousand years of steady austerity or ardent inquiry even if all mankind joins in that effort. But, in a short time, you will become cognizant of the bliss showered by the divine Principle, which has taken upon itself this sacred body and this sacred name. Your good fortune which will grant you this sacred opportunity that is far superior to what was available to anchorites, monks, sages, saints and even personalities embodying facets of divine Glory!" -
Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 17th May 1968 in Mumbai on the occasion of the World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII, Chapter - 19. Page: 98-99.

     Do not get deluded. "Since I move about with you, eat like you, and talk with you, you are deluded into the belief that this is but an instance of common humanity. Be warned against this mistake. I am also deluding you by my singing with you, talking with you, and engaging myself in activities with you. But, any moment, my Divinity may be revealed to you; you have to be ready, prepared for that moment. Since divinity is enveloped by humanness you must endeavor to overcome the mâyâ (delusion) that hides it from your eyes." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 17th May 1968 in Mumbai on the occasion of the World Conference of S'rî Sathya Sai Seva Organizations. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII. Chapter - 19. Page: 99.

      My power is immeasurable… "My power is immeasurable; My truth is inexplicable, unfathomable. I am announcing this about Me, for, the need has arisen. But, what I am giving you now is only the gift of a 'Visiting Card!' Let Me tell you that emphatic declarations of the truth by Avatâras were made so clearly and so unmistakably only by Krishna. In spite of the declaration, you will notice in the career of Krishna that He underwent defeat in His efforts and endeavors on a few occasions; you must also note that those defeats too were part of the drama which He had planned and which He Himself directed. For example, when many Kings pleaded with Him to avert the war with the Kauravas, He confessed that His Mission to the Kaurava Court for ensuring peace had 'failed!' But, He had not willed that it should succeed! He had decided that war would be waged! His Mission was intended to punish the greed and iniquity of the Kauravas and to condemn them before the whole world.
Now, I must tell you, that during this Sai Avatâr, there is no place for even such 'drama' with scenes of failures and defeats! What I will, must take place; what I plan must succeed. I am Truth; and Truth has no need to hesitate, or fear, or bend." -
Bhagavân's Discourse on 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII, Chapter - 38. Page: 227-228.

     'Willing' is superfluous for Me… 'Willing' is superfluous for Me. For, My grace is ever available to devotees who have steady love and faith. Since I move freely among them, talking and singing, even intellectuals are unable to grasp My Truth, My Power, My Glory, or My real Task as Avatâr (divine descent). I can solve any problem however knotty. I am beyond the reach of the most intensive inquiry and the most meticulous measurement. Only those who have recognised My Love and experienced that Love can assert that they have glimpsed My Reality. For, the Path of Love is the Royal road that leads mankind to Me." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII, Chapter - 38. Page: 228.

     Do not attempt to know Me through… "Do not attempt to know Me through the external eyes. When you go to a temple and stand before the image of God, you pray with closed eyes, don't you? Why? Because you feel that the inner eye of wisdom alone can reveal Him to you. Therefore, do not crave from Me trivial material objects; but, crave for Me, and you would be rewarded. Not that you should not receive whatever objects I give as sign of grace out of the fullness of love." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII. Chapter - 38. Page: 228.

     Why argue over Me? Who exactly is the Baba, you discuss and debate?! What does it matter to you who I am? You are concerned about your goal, your ideal, your experience, your effort, is it not? Why then worry about My Origin, My Nature, My Mystery, My Miracle? When you cannot grasp your own basic reality, why waste time in exploring the essence of Godhead? As a matter of fact, you can understand Me only when you have understood yourself, your own Truth. 
The gross can grasp only the gross; its categories of knowledge can proceed only as far as that. Fish die when they have to breathe the air above the water. Children can learn the alphabet only with the help of boards, slates, pencils and pieces of chalk. Sâdhakas (spiritual aspirants) going through the primers of spirituality need symbols, images and rituals. You cannot discard Name and Form until you transmute yourself into the Nameless and Formless; just as the fish needed water and could not come up into the atmosphere, so long as they did not transmute themselves into land animals, giving up their aquatic nature. That is the reason why the Nameless and Formless has often to assume Name and Form, and come before humanity with limitations imposed by its own Will, so that it may be loved, respected, worshipped, listened to and followed; so that the purpose of humanity may be fulfilled. -
Bhagavân's Discourse on 4th March 1962 in Prashaanthi Nilayam on the occasion of Mahâ-S'ivaratri. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - II, Chapter-31. Page: 164-165.

     The chief characteristic of Sathya Sai is… "The chief characteristic of Sathya Sai is equanimity, forbearance, sahana (fortitude). There are many who are engaged in criticism and calumny. Many papers publish all types of writings. Many pamphlets are printed. All kinds of things happen in the world. My reply to all these is a smile. Such criticisms and distortions are the inevitable accomplishments of everything good and great. Only the fruit laden tree is hit by stones thrown by greedy people. No one casts a stone on the tree that bears no fruit!" - Bhagavân's Discourse on 22nd Nov 1981 in Poornachandra Auditorium, Prashanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XV, Chapter - 33. Page: 179-180

     You too have the Sai principle in you … "It is impossible for anyone to understand or explain the meaning and significance of Swami. This is an Incarnation which is beyond anyone's comprehension. Trying to explain Me would be as futile as the attempt of a person who does not know the alphabet to read a scholarly treatise, or the attempt to pour the ocean into a tiny waterway. You can at best only prepare yourself to receive and benefit by the ananda I confer, the bliss I grant.
You too have the Sai principle in you, but the difference is a matter of 'wattage'. You have bulbs of zero watt power and also bulbs of high wattage giving dazzling light. The same electric current passes through them no doubt, but, how incomprehensible must be the 'Supreme' for the molecule. -
Bhagavân's Discourse on 9th Oct 1970 in Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - X, Chapter - 28. Page: 170-171.

     Even if the entire world opposes Me unitedly… "Embodiments of Love! Even if the entire world opposes Me unitedly, nothing can affect Me. My mission is essentially Mine. I am engaged in doing good. My heart is ever full of benediction. I have no ego. I do not own anything. This is My truth. Those who have faith in this, My Truth, will not hesitate to dedicate themselves to it. Those who have doubts and defects react with anger and fear. But the person with no doubt and defect will not react so. I am aware of this and so I am always in Ananda (bliss)." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 22nd Nov 1981 in Poornachandra Auditorium, Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XV, Chapter - 33. Page: 180.

     The Divine has to reveal Itself. "The Divine is now denoted by various words that are common currency in limited human vocabulary. They name phenomena revealing the Divine as 'miracles', 'magic', 'wonders', etc. Of course, man cannot contain in his mind more than he can hold. He cannot express in words the inexpressible. Only those who have dived deep and contacted the underlying principle of Love can visualize Divinity with some clarity. The Divinity that is Me has not been acquired or earned, nor has it been added or evinced after the lapse of some years, in the middle of this life. The Divine has to reveal Itself through these manifestations, largely shaped and modified by the nature of the times, the region and the cultural environment. The signs and wonders that I manifest are given names that do not convey the purpose or effect. They can be called chamathkaara (that which is inexplicable), that lead on to samskaara (refinement), which in turn urge one on towards paropakaara (helping others) and finally result in saakshaathkaara (vision of the divine)." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 23rd Nov 1976 in Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XIII, Chapter - 25. Page: 164-165.

     Few have realized My purpose and significance. "I never exult when I am extolled, nor cower when I am reviled. Few have realized My purpose and significance; but I am not worried. When things that are not in Me are attributed to Me, why should I worry? When things that are in Me are mentioned, why should I exult? I am Ananda, Shaantham, Dhairyam (Bliss, Equanimity and Courage). Take Me as your Aathma thathwam (principle of the spirit); you won't be wrong. Resolve from this day to see only the good in others, to develop the good in yourselves. That is the best sâdhana (spiritual practice)." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 30th March 1965 in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - V, Chapter - 23. Page: 128-129

     My power. Do not exaggerate the significance of miracles. "You elaborate in your lectures the unique powers of Sai, the incidents that are described as 'miracles' in books written on Me by some persons. But I request you not to attach importance to these. Do not exaggerate their significance; the most significant and important power is, let Me tell you, My prema (love). I may turn the sky into earth, or earth into sky; but that is not the sign of Divine might. It is the prema, the sahana (fortitude) that are my unique signs. When you attempt to cultivate and propagate this love and this fortitude, trouble and travail will clog your steps. You must welcome them, for without them, the best in you cannot be drawn out." - From Bhagavân's Discourse on the occasion of World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, in Mumbai, on 17th May, 1968. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII, Chapter-19. Page: 98.

     The power of Sai is limitless. "The physical eyes cannot visualize the Truth. It gives only false and fogged information. For example, there are many who observe My actions and start declaring that My nature is such and such. They are unable to gauge the sanctity, the majesty and the eternal reality that is Me. The power of Sai is limitless and inexhaustible. All forms of 'power' are resident in this palm." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- XII, Chapter - 38. Page: 226

     Always be mindful of My true nature… "People may be very near (physically) to the Avatâr, but they live out their lives unaware of their fortune; they exaggerate the role of miracles, which are as trivial, when compared to My glory and majesty, as a mosquito is in size and strength to the elephant upon which it squats. Therefore, when you speak about these miracles, I laugh within myself out of pity that you allow yourself so easily to lose the precious awareness of my reality..." - Bhagavân's Discourse on 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII, Chapter - 38. Page: 227.

My Activities You can observe Me and My activities… "You can observe Me and My activities; note how I adhere to righteousness, moral order, truth and universal compassion. That is what I desire you to learn from Me. Many of you plead for a 'Message' from Me, to take to the Samithi (Sai centre) of which you are members. Well, My life is My message. You will be adhering to My message if you so live that your lives are evidence of the dispassionate quiet, the courage, the confidence, the eagerness to serve those who are in distress, that My life inspires you with." - From Bhagavân's Discourse on the occasion of World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, in Mumbai, on 17th May, 1968. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII, Chapter-19. Page: 96-97.

     I need nothing… "I need nothing, however great or small, in this Universe. At no moment has desire affected me for any thing or activity. I have come to give, not to receive. And, what you can offer Me is just this: pure, unadulterated love. When you offer Me that, I derive Ananda." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 23rd Nov 1974, Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XII, Chapter - 53. Page: 311.

     My activities are not for publicity. "My activities are not for publicity or propaganda or even to confer joy on others! They are for conferring joy primarily on Me! I have no need to please others and to earn approval or appreciation. For, I and you are not distinct entities; you are I and I am you. I am the current that flows into every bulb and illumines it. Those who see Me as separate are seeing falsehood. I am in your hearts; you are in mine. Don't be misled into doubt and distress." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 20th July 1972, Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XI, Chapter - 43. Page: 281-282

     I do not need any publicity… "I do not need any publicity, nor does any other manifestation of the Lord. What are you daring to publicise? Me? What do you know about Me, I ask you? You speak one thing about Me today and another tomorrow. Your faith has not become unshakable! You praise Me when things go well and blame Me when things go wrong. You flit from one refuge to another. And even before your bhakti (devotion) ripens, you strive to lead others, you collect donations and subscriptions and plan mandirs (temples) and sangams (associations); all this is mere show, which brings spiritual loss, rather than spiritual gain. When you start publicity you descend to the level of those who compete in collecting clientele, decrying others and extolling themselves. Where money is calculated and garnered, and exhibited to demonstrate one's achievements, I will not be present. I come only where sincerity, faith and surrender are valued." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 15th Oct. 1964, Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - IV, Chapter - 35. Page: 210

     My activities and movements will never be altered… "My activities and movements will never be altered, whatever one may say about them. Meanness may prompt people to remark on My dress or they may talk cynically of My hair, but I shall not be affected a bit. My discourses, My plans for Dharmasthaapana (establishment of righteousness), My movements, I shall not alter in the least. I have stuck to this determination for many years now and I am engaged in the task for which I have come, to inculcate the path of Prasanthi (supreme peace). I shall not stop, nor retract a single step… Not even the greatest scientist can understand Me by means of the categories to which he is accustomed. I always smile at those who deride Me, and even those who praise Me. I am always full of happiness, whatever may happen. Nothing can come in the way of My Smile. Derision and calumny only tend to make it grow bigger and more joyful." - Bhagavân Baba's Discourse on 30th Nov 1965, Prasanthi Nilayam. Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - V, Chapter - 42. Page: 234-235.


'Shirdi Sai, the first incarnation of the Sai Avatâr, giving Udi'

 



Baba singing the Gâyatrî Mantra / Text

Sathyam Shivam Sundaram
The Life of Bhagavân S'rî Sathya Sai Baba
written by N. Kasturi.

Interview with journalist - September 1976

 

 

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