WHAT BHAGAWAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA TOLD ON HIMSELF
Why I have come
I have come to light the lamp of love…
"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."
- Bhagawan'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.
"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).
"Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. – VIII, Chapter – 22. Page: 118
I have come to help all to acquire serenity
"I have come to help all to acquire this Sathwic (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 Sathwa 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.
"Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- I, Chapter – 11. Page: 62-63
"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 Rama, Krishna, Ishwara, Sai - for they are all My names."
- on 17th May 1968 in Mumbai
"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
"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 endeavours 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
"Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- VIII, Chapter-19. Page: 96
"Rama, Krishna and other Avatars 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 Avatar 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 Shastras (India's ancient scriptures) and the other scriptural texts, which lay down the norms of sacred living."
- on 23rd Nov 1964, in Prashanthi Nilayam
"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
"Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - II, Chapter-26. Page: 140-141
"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."
- Bhagawan's Discourse on 23rd Nov 1964, 8 PM, in Prasanthi Nilayam.
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. – IV, Chapter – 38. Page: 226
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 Avatar 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."
- Bhagawan 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 Lord comes as the Avatar 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 Bhaktha Rakshana - fostering of the Vedas (ancient Indian spiritual scriptures) and fostering of Bhakthas (devotees)."
- Bhagawan Baba's Discourse on 25th Jan 1963 in Prashanthi Nilayam
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- III, Chapter – 1. Page: 9-10
"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 Avatar, 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."
- Bhagawan 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 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."
- Bhagawan Baba's Discourse on 25th June 1960, Gokhale Hall, Chennai
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. – I, Chapter – 26. Page: 165
"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 Swarupa (personification of Righteousness) has not come in vain. It will succeed in averting the crisis that has come upon humanity."
- Bhagawan 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.
"Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. – XII. Chapter – 38. Page: 229
"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 Vaishya (the business class), nor a Shudra (the working class); The appellations of Brahmachari (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.
"Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. X, Chapter – 7. Page: 33
"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."
- Bhagawan 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
"…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 Avatar 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."
- Bhagawan 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
"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!"
- Bhagawan 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
"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 Maya (delusion) that hides it from your eyes."
- Bhagawan 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
"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 Avatars 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 endeavours 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 Avatar, 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."
- Bhagwan'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. 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 Avatar (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."
- Bhagwan'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 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."
- Bhagwan'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. Sadhakas (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.- Bhagawan's Discourse on 4th March 1962 in Prashaanthi Nilayam
on the occasion of Maha Shivarathri
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - II, Chapter-31. Page: 164-165
"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!"
- Bhagawan's Discourse on 22nd Nov 1981 in Poornachandra Auditorium, Prashanthi Nilayam.
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. – XV, Chapter – 33. Page: 179-180
"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.
- Bhagawan's Discourse on 9th Oct 1970 in Prasanthi Nilayam.
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - X, Chapter - 28. Page: 170-171
"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)."
- Bhagawan's Discourse on 22nd Nov 1981 in Poornachandra Auditorium, Prasanthi Nilayam.
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XV, Chapter - 33. Page: 180
"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)."
- Bhagawan's Discourse on 23rd Nov 1976 in Prasanthi Nilayam
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - XIII, Chapter - 25. Page: 164-165
"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 Sadhana (spiritual practice)."
- Bhagawan'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 Bhagawan'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 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."
- Bhagawan's Discourse on 19th June 1974 in Brindavan, Bangalore
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol.- XII, Chapter - 38. Page: 226
"People may be very near (physically) to the Avatar, 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..."
- Bhagawan'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 Bhagawan'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, 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."
- Bhagawan 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 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."
- Bhagawan 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, 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 Bhakthi (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."
- Bhagawan 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, 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."
- Bhagawan Baba's Discourse on 30th Nov 1965, Prasanthi Nilayam
Reference: "Sathya Sai Speaks", Vol. - V, Chapter - 42. Page: 234-235
Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born as Sathyanarayana Raju on November 23, 1926 in the village of Puttaparthi, in the state of Andhra Pradesh in South India. Even as a child, His spiritual inclination and contemplative nature set Him apart from other children of His age, and He was known as `Guru' and "Brahmajnani' (knower of Brahman or Godhead) among His peers and others in the village. However, it was not until October 20, 1940, the day He made the historic declaration of His Avatarhood, (Avatar - Divinity Incarnate) that the world at large learnt of this divine phenomenon. Today, millions of devotees from all over the world, professing various faiths, and hailing from various walks of life worship Him as an `Avatar', and an incarnation of the Sai Baba of Shirdi. Thousands gather every day at Prasanthi Nilayam, His ashram established beside the village of Puttaparthi, for His Darshan, when He moves among devotees blessing them and providing spiritual succour and solace.Revealing the purpose of His Advent, Sai Baba has said that He has come to re-establish the rhythm of righteousness in the world and repair the ancient highway to God, which over the years has systematically deteriorated. In His own words, "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 illuminating the Atmic Reality (Atma – The Self) of each being, 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 and rise up to the Divine, which is the goal."
Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is an integral manifestation who combines two very significant roles. Firstly, He is a great spiritual Master, famed for His simple and sweet exposition of the greatest and most intricate of spiritual truths which form the fundamental teachings of all the religions of the world. Elucidating on His mission, Bhagawan declares "I have come not to disturb or destroy any faith, but to confirm each in his own faith, so that the Christian becomes a better Christian, the Muslim a better Muslim and the Hindu a better Hindu." His formula for man to lead a meaningful life is the five-fold path of Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shanthi (Peace), Prema (Love) and Ahimsa (Non-Violence). Love for God, fear of sin and morality in society – these are His prescriptions for our ailing world.
Secondly, He is an inexhaustible reservoir of pure love. His numerous service projects, be it free hospitals, free schools and colleges, free drinking water supply or free housing projects, all stand testimony to His selfless love and compassion for the needy and less privileged. True to His declaration - "My Life is My Message", He has inspired and continues to inspire millions of His devotees worldwide by His personal example to live the ideal that service to man is service to God. The Sri Sathya Sai Organization today has a presence in over 167 countries in the world and members undertake group service activities that benefit their immediate community.
Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is thus a beacon of hope in a world that is desperately seeking an end to the unrest and sorrow prevalent today. His message of "Brotherhood of Man and the Fatherhood of God" is a spiritual salve that will lead mankind from the darkness of ignorance to the light of immortality. Indeed, very rarely does such a divine power walk the earth. As one devotee said, "Bhagawan Baba is nothing but Love walking on two feet". Mankind must use this golden opportunity to follow in His footsteps. That is the way to its redemption and its salvation.
The Concept of Avatarhood
Who is an `Avatar' and why does He incarnate?
Who is an Avatar?
An `Avatar' is defined as an incarnation (physical manifestation) of the Supreme Being. The word `Avatar' is derived from the Sanskrit word `Avataranam' which means `descent', and usually implies a deliberate descent of the Divine into the mortal realms to reveal the Absolute Truth to humanity and remind them of their true divine nature. Though Avatars may appear in different forms at different times, places and circumstances, yet they are all the manifestations of the One Supreme Lord.
Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Avatar of the Age, has succinctly explained the meaning and the reason for the descent of the Avatar in the following Telugu verse:
"Avatarinchuta yanutalo Arthamemi?
Janulapai Preethi Vaatsalya Paratha thoda
Vaari Sthaayaiki Daivambu Vachchu Bhuviki
Jeeva Prajnatho baatuga Daiva prajna"
In Bhagavad-Gita, Lord Sri Krishna, the Avatar of the Dwapara Age, declares thus:
"Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya Glanirbhavathi Bharatha
Abhyukthanam adharmasya Thadathmanam Srujamyaham."
"Parithranaya Sadhunam Vinashaya cha Dhushkrutham
Dharma samsthapanarthaya Sambhavami Yuge Yuge"
The Avatar appears whenever the world is passing through a spiritual and moral crisis. The Avatar comes in order to uphold Dharma (Righteousness) and raise the universal consciousness.
Why does He incarnate?
One may ask - why should the Lord Himself incarnate? Why should He not set about the task of restoring Dharma through the many minor gods and angels that He has at His command? The Mughal Emperor Akbar once posed the same question before the courtiers, for he scoffed at the Hindu idea of the Formless adopting a Form and descending into the world as an Avatar to save Dharma. Birbal (the celebrated courtier in Akbar's court, known for his wit and wisdom) asked for a week's time to answer the question. A few days later, when he was in the pleasure boat of the emperor, sailing across the lake with his family, Birbal threw overboard a doll made to look like the emperor's little son, crying at the same time, "O, the prince has fallen into the water!" Hearing this, immediately the emperor jumped into the lake to rescue his son. Birbal 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 to perforce 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. Akbar could have ordered one among 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 save his son from drowning. The decline in Dharma is so acute a tragedy and the intensity of affection that the Lord has for good men is so great that He Himself comes to the rescue.
The Triune Sai Avatar
The Divine mysteries cannot be fathomed by the human mind, unless God himself chooses to unlock them out of His immense love and compassion. Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, in a landmark discourse on 6th July, 1963, the Guru Poornima Day, declared the secret behind His advent. He revealed that the Sai Avatar is a triple incarnation of the Shiva-Shakthi Principle – Shiva as Shirdi Sai Baba, Shiva and Parvathi embodied as Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Shakthi Principle that will incarnate as Prema Sai in the Mandya District of the state of Karnataka. Click here for the complete text of the Guru Poornima Discourse of 6th July 1963.
Even in His childhood days, Swami used to refer to `The Saint of Shirdi' in the songs that He taught His companions. Very few in that region had ever seen or heard about Shirdi or Sai Baba. Little did they realize that the child in their midst, singing and dancing so captivatingly would, in a few years, make their village another Shirdi to which hundreds and thousands would come seeking the same Baba!
Sai Baba of Shirdi was born in a remote village called Pathri in Maharashtra on September 28, 1835 to the couple, Gangabhavadiya and Devagiriamma. Gangabhavadiya, overcome with a feeling of intense renunciation immediately after the child's birth, decided to retire into a forest. With Devagiriamma religiously following her husband, the newborn was left in nature's care. A pious Muslim and his wife took care of the abandoned child till He was four years of age. Then they handed Him over to a spiritual master by name Gopalrao Deshmukh (also known as Venkusa). For 12 years, till 1851, Baba stayed in Sri Venkusa's ashram. One night in 1851, for the first time, Baba came to Shirdi. However, He left after a two month stay. He returned to Shirdi again in 1858 and stayed there for 60 long years. Just prior to His shedding the mortal coil in 1918, Shirdi Baba told some of His devotees that He would reappear in the Madras Presidency in 8 years time. Sri Sathya Sai Baba, born in 1926, declared that He was Shirdi Baba come again.
Sathya Sai Baba invariably refers to Shirdi Baba as 'my previous body' whenever He speaks about Him. He often describes to His devotees, how He in His previous body dealt with people and situations, what illustrations He gave to clarify certain points, what questions were asked, etc. Many devotees of Shirdi Baba have had experiences confirming the unity of the two Sais. Click here to read some of these instances
BENDICIONES
AMA A TODOS - SIRVE A TODOS - LOVE ALL - SERVE ALL
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