'Sundararupaya'
-Sathya
Sai
Baba
Darshan Video-
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.
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
"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'ûdra
(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'
Watch Baba distributing Vibhuti
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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