48.
Granting of Favour to Doubting Devotee
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the Guru
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
1.
Now, as I begin this chapter, one very curious listener who
also heard me with great reverence, asked whether Sree Sai
was a Guru or a Sadguru.
2.
For his satisfaction I shall narrate briefly the
characteristics of a Sadguru, which can match those to be
found in Sree Sai Samartha.
3.
Those, from whom instructions in Vedas is acquired, as also
the knowledge of the six ‘Shastras’, or those erudite ones
who have explained the Vedant are not considered as
Sadgurus, by the learned ones.
4.
Those, who control the breath, or have ‘Taptamudra’1, or
entertain listeners with their eloquence on Brahman, are not
considered as Sadgurus by the learned ones.
5.
Such teachers give “mantras” to their disciples conforming
to the Shastras and also instruct them to do name chanting.
But no one can confidently say when these sadhanas would
bear fruit.
6.
Their description of the Principles of Brahman is very
interesting; the worldly knowledge is specious; but there is
a total lack of self-experience. But that knowledge is
hollow and only full of words.
7.
When one clearly hears such explanations, one would loathe
both, worldly and spiritual experiences. But the taste of
self-experience is explicit and only a self-realised person
can give it to others.
8.
He who has full knowledge of the Shastras, is fully
experienced, and can give practical knowledge, alone is
qualified to instruct the disciple. Such a person is called
a Sadguru.
9.
How can he, who is himself devoid of self-realisation, give
it to the disciple? He does not deserve to be called a
Sadguru who has no practical knowledge whatsoever.
10.
Know that he is the Sadguru who does not, even in his dream,
expect any service or profit from his disciple. On the
contrary, he wishes to serve the disciple.
11.
Only such a Sadguru is beneficial who does not consider that
a disciple is insignificant and the Guru is the best among
all. He should be egoless.
12.
He believes that the disciple is ‘Purna Brahma’ and treats
him as his own son. He does not expect anything from him for
his maintenance. Such a Sadguru is the best in the world.
13.
He, who is the abode of supreme peace, has no pride of
learning, does not distinguish between the young and the old
and the rich and the poor, is the embodiment of the Sadguru.
14.
Such are, generally, the characteristics of a Sadguru, which
I have compiled and narrated briefly for the listeners who
have completely surrendered.
15.
What more can I say to those fortunate ones who have been
fulfilled by Sai darshan? These are the true characteristics
of a Sadguru.
16.
Because of the store of accumulation of merits of many past
lives that I attained the feet of this Sadguru Sai.
17.
Even in the full bloom of youth, he had nothing of his own —
no family, no wealth, no support, no home. He hoarded only
tobacco and chillum and had strong determination.
18.
Even at the age of eighteen, he had complete control of his
mind. He lived in solitude always and fearlessly, always
abiding in the Self.
19.
Seeing the pure attachment of his devotees, his creed was
that he was at their service. To explicitly demonstrate his
love for his group of devotees, he lived with them, with
fond affection.
20.
Hail, Eternal Parabrahma! Hail, Helper of the Destitute and
Blissful Countenance! Hail, Supreme Consciousness and One at
the Service of the Devotees!
21.
Hail, hail to one who is beyond duality! Hail, hail to one
who is beyond attributes and with attributes! One who
witnesses everything and is transcendental, One beyond the
understanding of all who are not the devotees.
22.
Hail, hail to the remover of the distress of worldly
existence! Hail, hail to the destroyer of difficulties of
those who seek refuge and have come full of love,
Sadgururaya!
23.
You have become invisible merging with the formless, but you
act for the welfare of your devotees even after leaving the
body.
24.
Those who are devoted to you still have the same experiences
as they did when you were in body, though you are now
invisible.
25.
By making this insignificant one the instrument of
dispelling the darkness of ignorance, you have manifested
the Sun of your Biography, which has the power to uplift the
devotees.
26.
To have belief in the existence of God and faith in Him —
these are the heart-lamps that a devotee must have. Light
the wicks, soaked in the oil of love, and the light of
knowledge will appear.
27.
Knowledge without love is formal. What use can it be to
anyone? Without love there is no satisfaction. Love should
be unbounded.
28.
How can I describe the power of love? Everything is
insignificant before it. If there is no deep love, listening
or reading is fruitless.
29.
In the wake of love, follow devotion, dispassion, peace and
contentment together with liberation and all its treasures.
30.
Love is not born without faith. Where there is faith there
is God. With faith there is abundance of love and it is only
faith which is the means of liberation.
31.
The Sai Charita is as pure as the waters of the Ganga. He
himself has adorned his ‘stotra’. Hemad is only the
instrument.
32.
Listening to the Sai Charita purifies the listeners and the
narrator always. The merits and the sins are obliterated and
both attain salvation.
33.
The listeners who hear it are most fortunate; and so is the
narrator. Blessed is the Sree Sai stotra and it is very
purifying for his devotees.
34.
He who listens to the Charita with great faith and pure
mind, will find all his desires fulfilled always.
35.
Whoever listens to this Satcharita with supreme faith and
reverence will attain devotion at Sai’s feet, immediately.
36.
Remembering Sai and serving at his feet with devotion brings
the senses under control, at one’s will, and the ocean of
existence is crossed easily.
37.
The narration of this Sai Charita is like the pure water for
the devotees, who are like the Chatak birds. Listeners
should meditate on it after hearing, so that Sree’s Grace is
upon them.
38.
If the listeners hear it with complete and concentrated
attention, the crossing of the ocean of existence becomes
easy, after the bondages of ‘karma’ are broken.
39.
Be it so. The listeners must be wondering when the story
will begin. I’ll drive out their restlessness by giving an
introduction.
40.
In the previous chapter it was stated that enmity, murder
and debt have to be repaid in the next life, for which one
is born to bear the fruits of one’s karma.
41.
Those who have committed these sins do not remember them but
the saints do not ever forget. They help their devotees to
overcome their problems, wherever they are born.
42.
Here is another story of how faith placed at the feet of a
Saint, in whatever one does, brings benefits to his devotee.
43.
Before commencing any work, if the Guru, who is God, is
remembered and due attention is paid to the work, then he
will ward off his devotee’s worries.
44.
I will only be the doer of the action. Samartha Guru, who is
God, will give the fruits thereof. One who firmly believes
thus will cross the ocean of existence.
45.
At the outset, the Saints appear harsh. But, inwardly, they
have unselfish love. One should have a little patience. They
will ultimately act for one’s welfare.
46. When one is under the mantle of an association with a Saint,
then any ill that is wished upon one, or any misfortunes
that crop up due to one’s destiny, or the illusions of this
world are immediately annihilated. Therefore, humble
yourself at the feet of a Saint.
47.
Surrender to a Saint in all humility and without being
puffed up with pride. Pray to him for your own, secret
welfare and he will grant peace of mind.
48.
Those who are proud of their meagre knowledge and doubt the
words of Saints suffer losses; but later on, with faith,
achieve well-being.
49.
Surrendering at a Saint’s feet, in good faith or
deceptively, ultimately results in liberation. The greatness
of Saints is incredible!
50.
Now listen with full attention to a story which illustrates
this moral. The listener will be overcome with delight and
the narrator will be enthused.
51.
Listen to the experience of advocate Sapatnekar, resident of
Akkalkot. You will be pleased.
52.
When he was studying for law, day and night, he met another
student Shevade and they had mutual discussions.
53.
Other class fellows also came there and got together in one
room. To judge the extent of their preparedness, they began
asking questions to one another.
54.
This was done to ascertain the errors if any, of one
another, or the correctness of the answers, or to remove the
doubts so that they would have peace of mind.
55.
Shevade made a lot of errors in answering the questions. So,
in the end, all the students wondered how he could pass the
exam when his studies were inadequate.
56.
Though they ridiculed him, Shevade had full confidence that
he would pass at the right time, irrespective of whether he
had adequately or inadequately studied.
57.
“Even if I have not studied, my Sai Baba is there to ensure
that I get through. Why should I worry?”
58.
Hearing these words, Sapatnekar was surprised. Taking
Shevade aside, he began questioning him:
59.
“Oh! Who is this Sai Baba, whom you extol so much and in
whom you have complete faith? Where does he reside?”
60.
Then in answer, Shevade told him everything about Sai and
his own faith in him, very frankly and clearly.
61.
“In the well-known Ahmednagar district, there is a village
called Shirdi. A fakir resides in a Masjid, who is famous
and virtuous.
62.
There are saints in various places; but to have the good
fortune to meet them is not possible unless one has
considerable merit. Effort on one’s own part does not yield
results.
63.
I have full faith in him. Whatever he says will happen and
whatever he utters will come true. There will never be any
difference.
64.
No matter what efforts I make this year I will not pass the
exam. But next year even without any effort, I will pass.
This is the truth and nothing but the truth.
65.
I have his assurance. I have full faith in him, because his
words will never be belied. I am sure of that.
66.
What’s surprising about it? It will happen and I will pass
in the next exam”. Sapatnekar found these words ridiculous
and hollow.
67.
Since he was full of doubts, how could he appreciate those
words? Anyway, Shevade left from there. Listen to what
happened later.
68.
Then, after some time, Shevade’s words proved true. He
passed both the exams and Sapatnekar was surprised.
69.
Ten years passed. Sapatnekar got caught suddenly in
misfortune and he became dejected. He was miserable.
70.
In 1913, his only son died of diphtheria and he lost all
interest in life.
71.
He went to all the Tirthas, including Pandharpur and
Gangapur, but he was not at peace inwardly. Then he read the
Vedanta.
72.
Some time passed in this manner. He waited for peace to come
to him. While thus waiting, he recalled the incident of
Shevade.
73.
He recollected Shevade’s determination and faith in Sai. He
felt he should also go for Sree’s darshan.
74.
He thought of having the Saint’s darshan. In 1913, a visit
to Shirdi was organised and he left with his brother.
75.
Sai was summoning him to make obeisance at his feet, by
making his recollection of Shevade the cause or instrument.
Hear this carefully.
76.
Sapatnekar left for Shirdi with his family, and his younger
brother Pandit Rao, for the Saint’s darshan.
77.
Thus, they both came there and started for Sree’s darshan
immediately on arrival. They had Baba’s darshan from afar
and felt very satisfied.
78.
Though it was from afar, their eyes met and they quickly
went near. Both of them folded their hands and stood waiting
in front of Baba.
79.
Both of them very humbly prostrated before Baba and offered
a coconut at Sai’s feet with pure faith and love.
80.
When Sapatnekar offered the coconut at Samartha’s feet, Baba
said: “Get away!” with contempt to Sapatnekar.
81.
Sapatnekar was full of worries. Why had Baba got annoyed? He
thought he would find some one close to Baba and ask them.
82.
Just as much as the darshan pleased him, these words had the
contrary effect and depressed him. Hanging down his head
with worry, he moved back and sat aside.
83.
‘Now to whom should I go? Which devotee should I consult?
What is the meaning of Baba’s words? To whom shall I open my
heart?’, he wondered.
84.
Seeing this state of his mind, somebody suggested the name
of Bala Shimpi, for his satisfaction. His whereabouts were
found out.
85.
Sapatnekar told him the whole story and said: “Baba has
despised me and used very harsh words.
86.
You, at least, come with me and ensure that there is a
peaceful darshan. I only want Baba’s merciful glance and do
not wish him to be angry with me”.
87.
Thus, Bala agreed to it; and Sapatnekar felt relieved. Bala
made him purchase a photo of Baba and then they left for
Baba’s darshan.
88.
Bala Shimpi was with him, with the photo in his hand. Giving
it, then, to Baba, he began entreating Baba.
89.
“Oh Lord! Whose picture is this?” Looking at it, Baba
replied pointing a finger at Sapatnekar: “This photo is of
his lover”.
90.
Saying this, Baba laughed; and the whole gathering also was
amused. “Baba, what is the secret behind this?”, Bala asked
Baba.
91.
At that moment, Bala told Sapatnekar, “Take darshan. Act
quickly”. Then, when he made obeisance, he heard the words
“Get away!”
92.
‘The same earlier words “Get away” are still hounding me!
Now what should be done?’ Sapatnekar was surprised and
bewildered.
93.
Then, as both of them were still standing with folded hands
in front of Baba, Baba gave his ultimate order: “Go away
from here, immediately”.
94.
“Sai Samartha, no one can ever disobey you! So what can be
said of insignificant ones like us! I am leaving this very
moment.
95.
Having heard your great generosity, I had come for the
darshan. But I was welcomed with the words ‘Get away’,
spoken with contempt. What is this marvel, I do not
understand!
96.
I had hoped for a merciful glance and your words of
blessing. I hope that I will have your darshan again, very
soon!” He asked for this assurance.
97.
Who is so knowledgeable to know what Baba has in mind? But
obeying his instructions, they returned to their home.
98.
Such was their first darshan! They were both, therefore,
very dejected. They returned to their home, without any
further delay.
99.
One more year passed, yet his mind was not at peace. He went
again to Gangapur, but his state of mind worsened.
100. Later, Sapatnekar went to Madhegaon for rest. Finally, he
decided to go to Kashi.
101. When there were only two days left for their departure to
Kashi, his wife had a vision and their journey to Kashi did
not materialise.
102. I will narrate the marvel of this vision and its wonderful
effect. Listen to it, right away. This is the sport of Sai’s
actions.
103. When she was asleep in her bed, she had this dream. She was
carrying a water pot and was walking towards Lakkadshah’s
well.
104.“There “There was a fakir there, under a neem tree, with a cloth
tied round his head, who came near me”, she said.
105.“Why do you unnecessarily take this trouble child?” The
fakir said in a sweet and tender voice. “I will fill up your
whole pot with pure water”.
106. She was frightened of the fakir. She took the way back home
carrying the empty pot. The fakir followed her.
107. Seeing such a dream, she woke up and opened her eyes.
Hearing his wife’s dream, it was decided to go to Shirdi.
108. They left immediately and reached Shirdi, the next day. As
soon as they arrived they went to the Masjid. Baba was at
the Lendi at that time.
109. They sat there till Baba returned, waiting for his arrival.
Then, shortly thereafter, Baba returned.
110. The woman saw the same figure that she had dreamt of, to the
last detail; and she was greatly surprised. Then, she kept
staring.
111. After Baba’s feet were washed, this woman went forward to
take darshan. After prostrating at Sai’s feet, she sat down
gazing at him.
112. Noticing her humility, Sainath was pleased. Slowly Baba
started telling a story which would remove her anguish.
113. Then, as was his custom, Baba began talking about his own
ailment, in detail, to a third person who was there, in a
loving voice.
114. In reality, it was the woman’s own story, as she would
narrate it. It was told in her presence and she listened to
it with great care.
115.“My hands, stomach and waist have been hurting severely
since a long time. I am fed up of taking medicines as
nothing gives me relief.
116. I am tired of taking medicines because they have no effect.
But right now I am surprised to find that all the pains have
disappeared, suddenly”.
117. Such a story was narrated to a third person without
mentioning the woman’s name or indicating her. This was her
story truly and it related to her only.
118. Later, after a month or two, as Baba had described, she was
relieved of her pains. That was when realisation came to
her.
119. The woman’s desires were fulfilled. Then Sapatnekar took
darshan and Baba again greeted him with the earlier words
“Get away!”
120. ‘I do not know how I have erred! Baba has unfailing contempt
for me. Whenever I bow to him, he has only one answer, which
is customary to him.
121. It must be some accumulation of sins of my earlier lives
which makes him angry with me. Right before my eyes, he
behaves towards others with great love.
122. The whole assembly of devotees seem to experience, mornings
and evenings, a joy as if it were perpetually Divali. It is
only my luck to be told “Get away!”
123. Some action of mine has aggravated him and caused me to be
unrighteous. I am amazed. My sins must be multiple whereby
he is displeased with me.
124. In the beginning, I was vile towards Baba and full of
doubts. I feel that this is the reason why Baba is using
this method to put me in my place’.
125. Therefore, he decided that till Baba favoured him he would
stay there with a concentrated and peaceful mind.
126. Who has gone away disappointed without finding relief, even
if he is suffering from the three-fold calamities, if he is
yearning for Sai’s darshan?
127. That day, he was very depressed and lost his appetite. He
did not feel like going anywhere and could not even sleep.
128. He decided to find an opportunity when Baba would be alone
on his seat with no one near him. He would then hold on to
his feet.
129. No sooner than Sapatnekar took this decision that his
determination bore fruit. Becoming emotional, he fell at
Baba’s feet and held them.
130. When he placed his head on the feet, Baba rested his hand on
his head. Then Sapatnekar began pressing his feet, when a
shepherd woman (Dhangar) came there.
131. As soon as the woman came there, she began pressing Baba’s
waist; and Baba according to his usual practice started
talking to her.
132. The marvel of that story was that when Sapatnekar listened
to it carefully, he found it to be the story of his own
life, word to word.
133. Although it was the shepherd woman who gave the appropriate
responses to the story, Sapatnekar sat spell bound listening
to his own story and was amazed.
134. It was told as if it was the story of a grocer but in
reality it was his, including that of his dead son and about
death.
135. It was as if a close acquaintance or a relative was
narrating the whole story, from the time of birth to death,
in all details.
136. Though the story was being told to the woman, she had no
connection with it at all. It was the story of the father
and the son, and only concerned the two in all respects.
137. Be that as it may be. When Sapatnekar heard his own story
from Sai’s mouth, in this manner, he was greatly surprised
and his reverence for Sai’s feet grew strong.
138. He was very amazed! How did Baba know all this? But Baba
knew all this as easily as if he were holding an ‘amalak’
fruit on his palm.
139. When he was himself the Supreme Being, then the world was
his family. He is all-pervasive in this world. This is Sai’s
attribute.
140. When Sai is the Avatar that bears witness to the unity of
all beings, how can he differentiate? He himself is the
whole universe.
141. With One who is one with God, how can there be a question of
duality? The one who sees, the act of seeing and the object
that is seen are not different for such a person, just as
the sky is not affected by any colour or dirt.
142. Baba was very omniscient. This was realised by Sapatnekar.
Good and virtuous people, hear now what Baba said to him.
143. Pointing his finger at him, Baba spoke these words in a tone
of surprise: “He says that I have killed his son. He blames
me for it.
144. Do I kill people’s children? Why does he come and weep in
the Masjid? Very well, I will do this now. I will bring back
his son through his wife’s womb.
145. Just as the dead Ramdas was given back to that woman, I will
bring back his own son in his wife’s womb”.
146. Hearing this, Sapatnekar gazed at Baba and awaited. Baba
placed his hand on his head and assured him.
147. He said: “These feet are ancient. Your worries are over now.
Have full faith in me. You will be fulfilled soon”.
148. Sapatnekar was pressing Baba’s feet when he heard these
sweet words. He was choked with emotion and his eyes filled
with tears. He prostrated at Baba’s feet.
149. He was filled with the eight ‘satvik’ emotions. His eyes had
tears of joy with which he washed Baba’s feet with love.
150.AgainAgain Baba placed his hand on his head and said: “Stay
peacefully and without worry”. Then Sapatnekar left for the
place where he was staying and returned very happily.
151. He prepared the ‘naivedya’ and handed it over to his wife.
Then ‘puja’ and ‘arati’ was done. The platter was offered to
Baba.
152. Water was sprinkled over it. All the rituals were done, like
touching the water to the eyes, saying the mantra, offering
the food to all the elements, etc. And then it was offered
to Baba.
153. Then following the usual custom, Baba touched it with his
hand in token of acceptance of the ‘naivedya’.
154. Then as the other devotees present prostrated at Baba’s
feet, Sapatnekar pushed his way into the crowd, and again
did a quick ‘namaskar’.
155. Thus, in that hurry, heads knocked against one another. Then
Baba spoke to Sapatnekar, serenely.
156.“Oh! Why so often do you do namaskar after namaskar? It is
enough to do it once, with reverence and honour”.
157. Be that as it may. That night, there was a chavadi
procession and Sapatnekar liked it immensely. He lovingly
started in front of the ‘palkhi’ and delightedly carried the
staff.
158. The listeners are already familiar with this chavadi
procession. Therefore, to avoid making the book too long, I
am not going to repeat it.
159. Later that night, Sapatnekar felt that instead of Baba he
was visualising Pandurang. This was Baba’s unfathomable
leela!
160. Then when he asked for permission to leave (on the next
day), he was told to eat and then go. He obeyed the
instruction implicitly. Then, when leaving he went for
darshan.
161. Then suddenly a thought struck him: ‘If Baba now asks for
dakshina how will I be able to give it?’
162. The money that he had was spent and only enough was left for
the return fare. Therefore, he mentally prepared an answer
if Baba said: “Give me dakshina”.
163. He decided to give one rupee into Baba’s hand even before it
was asked; then if he asked, one more could be offered. If
asked again, he would say he had no more.
164. He decided to frankly tell Baba that he had kept enough only
for the train fare; and then he went to meet Baba.
165. According to his firm resolution, made earlier, he put one
rupee into Baba’s hand and he was asked for only one more.
When it was given, Baba clearly told him:
166.“Take this one coconut. Place it in your wife’s sari end.
Then you go happily, leaving aside all worries of life”.
167. Then, after a year had passed, a son was born to them. They
both came again for darshan, when the boy was eight months
old.
168. They laid the boy at Baba’s feet. How, wonderful are the
deeds of saints! Then, both of them folded their hands and
entreated Baba. Listen to it.
169.“O Sainath, how can we now redeem this obligation? We are at
a loss to understand. We only place our heads at your feet.
170. We are lowly, poor and insignificant. Have mercy on us,
orphans. From now onwards, let us have refuge at your feet.
171. Many thoughts and ideas trouble us in our waking hours and
in our dreams, day and night. So fix our minds on your
worship”.
172. So be it. With that boy, Murlidhar, and with two others
Bhaskar and Dinkar, Sapatnekar was fulfilled in their
company, later on2.
173. Then, along with his wife, he prostrated before merciful
Sai. They attained mental peace and stability and returned
after being fulfilled.
174. I had intended to tell this story briefly, when I commenced
the narration. But Sainath is making me speak on, hence this
chapter has lengthened.
175. This Hemad surrenders to him. Now let me give an indication
of the story in the next chapter to the listeners.
176. That story is even more interesting than this. Sai fulfilled
the wish of a devotee, who had a liking for miracles,
silently.
177. When Sai’s attributes are praised, there are people who are
prone to find fault as they see them only. They have no
motive for self gain nor are they attached to spiritual
gain. Their only aim is to find fault.
178.“Sai Baba may be a saint. Yet unless he gives me some
experience and unless I have some proof, I cannot believe in
and accept him.” This is what they say.
179. In the next chapter is the story of one who had gone only to
test him but even his wishes were fulfilled. Virtuous
listeners should hear it.
May there be well-being. This is the end of the forty-eighth
chapter of Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the devotee
Hemadpant; impelled by Saints and virtuous people, called
“Granting of Favour to Doubting Devotee”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
Impressions made with a red hot stamping instrument, which maybe
of copper, on their flesh, as done by the followers of Vishnu.
2. Lt. Col. M.B. Nimbalkar (Retd.) mentions that Sapatnekar and
his wife Parvatibai had eight sons and one daughter. Baba is said to
have done several ‘tilaks’ of udi on Parvatibai’s forehead and said that
she could take as many children as she wanted.
“
Mahadeo V.Sapatnekar
Parvatibai M.Sapatnekar
Take this one coconut. Place it in your wife’s sari end. Then you go
happily, leaving aside all worries of life”. (Ch. 48, ovi 166)
Then, after a year had passed, a son was born to them. They both came
again for darshan, when the boy was eight months old. (Ch. 48, ovi 167)
Granting of Favour to Doubting Devotee
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the Guru
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
1.
Now, as I begin this chapter, one very curious listener who
also heard me with great reverence, asked whether Sree Sai
was a Guru or a Sadguru.
2.
For his satisfaction I shall narrate briefly the
characteristics of a Sadguru, which can match those to be
found in Sree Sai Samartha.
3.
Those, from whom instructions in Vedas is acquired, as also
the knowledge of the six ‘Shastras’, or those erudite ones
who have explained the Vedant are not considered as
Sadgurus, by the learned ones.
4.
Those, who control the breath, or have ‘Taptamudra’1, or
entertain listeners with their eloquence on Brahman, are not
considered as Sadgurus by the learned ones.
5.
Such teachers give “mantras” to their disciples conforming
to the Shastras and also instruct them to do name chanting.
But no one can confidently say when these sadhanas would
bear fruit.
6.
Their description of the Principles of Brahman is very
interesting; the worldly knowledge is specious; but there is
a total lack of self-experience. But that knowledge is
hollow and only full of words.
7.
When one clearly hears such explanations, one would loathe
both, worldly and spiritual experiences. But the taste of
self-experience is explicit and only a self-realised person
can give it to others.
8.
He who has full knowledge of the Shastras, is fully
experienced, and can give practical knowledge, alone is
qualified to instruct the disciple. Such a person is called
a Sadguru.
9.
How can he, who is himself devoid of self-realisation, give
it to the disciple? He does not deserve to be called a
Sadguru who has no practical knowledge whatsoever.
10.
Know that he is the Sadguru who does not, even in his dream,
expect any service or profit from his disciple. On the
contrary, he wishes to serve the disciple.
11.
Only such a Sadguru is beneficial who does not consider that
a disciple is insignificant and the Guru is the best among
all. He should be egoless.
12.
He believes that the disciple is ‘Purna Brahma’ and treats
him as his own son. He does not expect anything from him for
his maintenance. Such a Sadguru is the best in the world.
13.
He, who is the abode of supreme peace, has no pride of
learning, does not distinguish between the young and the old
and the rich and the poor, is the embodiment of the Sadguru.
14.
Such are, generally, the characteristics of a Sadguru, which
I have compiled and narrated briefly for the listeners who
have completely surrendered.
15.
What more can I say to those fortunate ones who have been
fulfilled by Sai darshan? These are the true characteristics
of a Sadguru.
16.
Because of the store of accumulation of merits of many past
lives that I attained the feet of this Sadguru Sai.
17.
Even in the full bloom of youth, he had nothing of his own —
no family, no wealth, no support, no home. He hoarded only
tobacco and chillum and had strong determination.
18.
Even at the age of eighteen, he had complete control of his
mind. He lived in solitude always and fearlessly, always
abiding in the Self.
19.
Seeing the pure attachment of his devotees, his creed was
that he was at their service. To explicitly demonstrate his
love for his group of devotees, he lived with them, with
fond affection.
20.
Hail, Eternal Parabrahma! Hail, Helper of the Destitute and
Blissful Countenance! Hail, Supreme Consciousness and One at
the Service of the Devotees!
21.
Hail, hail to one who is beyond duality! Hail, hail to one
who is beyond attributes and with attributes! One who
witnesses everything and is transcendental, One beyond the
understanding of all who are not the devotees.
22.
Hail, hail to the remover of the distress of worldly
existence! Hail, hail to the destroyer of difficulties of
those who seek refuge and have come full of love,
Sadgururaya!
23.
You have become invisible merging with the formless, but you
act for the welfare of your devotees even after leaving the
body.
24.
Those who are devoted to you still have the same experiences
as they did when you were in body, though you are now
invisible.
25.
By making this insignificant one the instrument of
dispelling the darkness of ignorance, you have manifested
the Sun of your Biography, which has the power to uplift the
devotees.
26.
To have belief in the existence of God and faith in Him —
these are the heart-lamps that a devotee must have. Light
the wicks, soaked in the oil of love, and the light of
knowledge will appear.
27.
Knowledge without love is formal. What use can it be to
anyone? Without love there is no satisfaction. Love should
be unbounded.
28.
How can I describe the power of love? Everything is
insignificant before it. If there is no deep love, listening
or reading is fruitless.
29.
In the wake of love, follow devotion, dispassion, peace and
contentment together with liberation and all its treasures.
30.
Love is not born without faith. Where there is faith there
is God. With faith there is abundance of love and it is only
faith which is the means of liberation.
31.
The Sai Charita is as pure as the waters of the Ganga. He
himself has adorned his ‘stotra’. Hemad is only the
instrument.
32.
Listening to the Sai Charita purifies the listeners and the
narrator always. The merits and the sins are obliterated and
both attain salvation.
33.
The listeners who hear it are most fortunate; and so is the
narrator. Blessed is the Sree Sai stotra and it is very
purifying for his devotees.
34.
He who listens to the Charita with great faith and pure
mind, will find all his desires fulfilled always.
35.
Whoever listens to this Satcharita with supreme faith and
reverence will attain devotion at Sai’s feet, immediately.
36.
Remembering Sai and serving at his feet with devotion brings
the senses under control, at one’s will, and the ocean of
existence is crossed easily.
37.
The narration of this Sai Charita is like the pure water for
the devotees, who are like the Chatak birds. Listeners
should meditate on it after hearing, so that Sree’s Grace is
upon them.
38.
If the listeners hear it with complete and concentrated
attention, the crossing of the ocean of existence becomes
easy, after the bondages of ‘karma’ are broken.
39.
Be it so. The listeners must be wondering when the story
will begin. I’ll drive out their restlessness by giving an
introduction.
40.
In the previous chapter it was stated that enmity, murder
and debt have to be repaid in the next life, for which one
is born to bear the fruits of one’s karma.
41.
Those who have committed these sins do not remember them but
the saints do not ever forget. They help their devotees to
overcome their problems, wherever they are born.
42.
Here is another story of how faith placed at the feet of a
Saint, in whatever one does, brings benefits to his devotee.
43.
Before commencing any work, if the Guru, who is God, is
remembered and due attention is paid to the work, then he
will ward off his devotee’s worries.
44.
I will only be the doer of the action. Samartha Guru, who is
God, will give the fruits thereof. One who firmly believes
thus will cross the ocean of existence.
45.
At the outset, the Saints appear harsh. But, inwardly, they
have unselfish love. One should have a little patience. They
will ultimately act for one’s welfare.
46. When one is under the mantle of an association with a Saint,
then any ill that is wished upon one, or any misfortunes
that crop up due to one’s destiny, or the illusions of this
world are immediately annihilated. Therefore, humble
yourself at the feet of a Saint.
47.
Surrender to a Saint in all humility and without being
puffed up with pride. Pray to him for your own, secret
welfare and he will grant peace of mind.
48.
Those who are proud of their meagre knowledge and doubt the
words of Saints suffer losses; but later on, with faith,
achieve well-being.
49.
Surrendering at a Saint’s feet, in good faith or
deceptively, ultimately results in liberation. The greatness
of Saints is incredible!
50.
Now listen with full attention to a story which illustrates
this moral. The listener will be overcome with delight and
the narrator will be enthused.
51.
Listen to the experience of advocate Sapatnekar, resident of
Akkalkot. You will be pleased.
52.
When he was studying for law, day and night, he met another
student Shevade and they had mutual discussions.
53.
Other class fellows also came there and got together in one
room. To judge the extent of their preparedness, they began
asking questions to one another.
54.
This was done to ascertain the errors if any, of one
another, or the correctness of the answers, or to remove the
doubts so that they would have peace of mind.
55.
Shevade made a lot of errors in answering the questions. So,
in the end, all the students wondered how he could pass the
exam when his studies were inadequate.
56.
Though they ridiculed him, Shevade had full confidence that
he would pass at the right time, irrespective of whether he
had adequately or inadequately studied.
57.
“Even if I have not studied, my Sai Baba is there to ensure
that I get through. Why should I worry?”
58.
Hearing these words, Sapatnekar was surprised. Taking
Shevade aside, he began questioning him:
59.
“Oh! Who is this Sai Baba, whom you extol so much and in
whom you have complete faith? Where does he reside?”
60.
Then in answer, Shevade told him everything about Sai and
his own faith in him, very frankly and clearly.
61.
“In the well-known Ahmednagar district, there is a village
called Shirdi. A fakir resides in a Masjid, who is famous
and virtuous.
62.
There are saints in various places; but to have the good
fortune to meet them is not possible unless one has
considerable merit. Effort on one’s own part does not yield
results.
63.
I have full faith in him. Whatever he says will happen and
whatever he utters will come true. There will never be any
difference.
64.
No matter what efforts I make this year I will not pass the
exam. But next year even without any effort, I will pass.
This is the truth and nothing but the truth.
65.
I have his assurance. I have full faith in him, because his
words will never be belied. I am sure of that.
66.
What’s surprising about it? It will happen and I will pass
in the next exam”. Sapatnekar found these words ridiculous
and hollow.
67.
Since he was full of doubts, how could he appreciate those
words? Anyway, Shevade left from there. Listen to what
happened later.
68.
Then, after some time, Shevade’s words proved true. He
passed both the exams and Sapatnekar was surprised.
69.
Ten years passed. Sapatnekar got caught suddenly in
misfortune and he became dejected. He was miserable.
70.
In 1913, his only son died of diphtheria and he lost all
interest in life.
71.
He went to all the Tirthas, including Pandharpur and
Gangapur, but he was not at peace inwardly. Then he read the
Vedanta.
72.
Some time passed in this manner. He waited for peace to come
to him. While thus waiting, he recalled the incident of
Shevade.
73.
He recollected Shevade’s determination and faith in Sai. He
felt he should also go for Sree’s darshan.
74.
He thought of having the Saint’s darshan. In 1913, a visit
to Shirdi was organised and he left with his brother.
75.
Sai was summoning him to make obeisance at his feet, by
making his recollection of Shevade the cause or instrument.
Hear this carefully.
76.
Sapatnekar left for Shirdi with his family, and his younger
brother Pandit Rao, for the Saint’s darshan.
77.
Thus, they both came there and started for Sree’s darshan
immediately on arrival. They had Baba’s darshan from afar
and felt very satisfied.
78.
Though it was from afar, their eyes met and they quickly
went near. Both of them folded their hands and stood waiting
in front of Baba.
79.
Both of them very humbly prostrated before Baba and offered
a coconut at Sai’s feet with pure faith and love.
80.
When Sapatnekar offered the coconut at Samartha’s feet, Baba
said: “Get away!” with contempt to Sapatnekar.
81.
Sapatnekar was full of worries. Why had Baba got annoyed? He
thought he would find some one close to Baba and ask them.
82.
Just as much as the darshan pleased him, these words had the
contrary effect and depressed him. Hanging down his head
with worry, he moved back and sat aside.
83.
‘Now to whom should I go? Which devotee should I consult?
What is the meaning of Baba’s words? To whom shall I open my
heart?’, he wondered.
84.
Seeing this state of his mind, somebody suggested the name
of Bala Shimpi, for his satisfaction. His whereabouts were
found out.
85.
Sapatnekar told him the whole story and said: “Baba has
despised me and used very harsh words.
86.
You, at least, come with me and ensure that there is a
peaceful darshan. I only want Baba’s merciful glance and do
not wish him to be angry with me”.
87.
Thus, Bala agreed to it; and Sapatnekar felt relieved. Bala
made him purchase a photo of Baba and then they left for
Baba’s darshan.
88.
Bala Shimpi was with him, with the photo in his hand. Giving
it, then, to Baba, he began entreating Baba.
89.
“Oh Lord! Whose picture is this?” Looking at it, Baba
replied pointing a finger at Sapatnekar: “This photo is of
his lover”.
90.
Saying this, Baba laughed; and the whole gathering also was
amused. “Baba, what is the secret behind this?”, Bala asked
Baba.
91.
At that moment, Bala told Sapatnekar, “Take darshan. Act
quickly”. Then, when he made obeisance, he heard the words
“Get away!”
92.
‘The same earlier words “Get away” are still hounding me!
Now what should be done?’ Sapatnekar was surprised and
bewildered.
93.
Then, as both of them were still standing with folded hands
in front of Baba, Baba gave his ultimate order: “Go away
from here, immediately”.
94.
“Sai Samartha, no one can ever disobey you! So what can be
said of insignificant ones like us! I am leaving this very
moment.
95.
Having heard your great generosity, I had come for the
darshan. But I was welcomed with the words ‘Get away’,
spoken with contempt. What is this marvel, I do not
understand!
96.
I had hoped for a merciful glance and your words of
blessing. I hope that I will have your darshan again, very
soon!” He asked for this assurance.
97.
Who is so knowledgeable to know what Baba has in mind? But
obeying his instructions, they returned to their home.
98.
Such was their first darshan! They were both, therefore,
very dejected. They returned to their home, without any
further delay.
99.
One more year passed, yet his mind was not at peace. He went
again to Gangapur, but his state of mind worsened.
100. Later, Sapatnekar went to Madhegaon for rest. Finally, he
decided to go to Kashi.
101. When there were only two days left for their departure to
Kashi, his wife had a vision and their journey to Kashi did
not materialise.
102. I will narrate the marvel of this vision and its wonderful
effect. Listen to it, right away. This is the sport of Sai’s
actions.
103. When she was asleep in her bed, she had this dream. She was
carrying a water pot and was walking towards Lakkadshah’s
well.
104.“There “There was a fakir there, under a neem tree, with a cloth
tied round his head, who came near me”, she said.
105.“Why do you unnecessarily take this trouble child?” The
fakir said in a sweet and tender voice. “I will fill up your
whole pot with pure water”.
106. She was frightened of the fakir. She took the way back home
carrying the empty pot. The fakir followed her.
107. Seeing such a dream, she woke up and opened her eyes.
Hearing his wife’s dream, it was decided to go to Shirdi.
108. They left immediately and reached Shirdi, the next day. As
soon as they arrived they went to the Masjid. Baba was at
the Lendi at that time.
109. They sat there till Baba returned, waiting for his arrival.
Then, shortly thereafter, Baba returned.
110. The woman saw the same figure that she had dreamt of, to the
last detail; and she was greatly surprised. Then, she kept
staring.
111. After Baba’s feet were washed, this woman went forward to
take darshan. After prostrating at Sai’s feet, she sat down
gazing at him.
112. Noticing her humility, Sainath was pleased. Slowly Baba
started telling a story which would remove her anguish.
113. Then, as was his custom, Baba began talking about his own
ailment, in detail, to a third person who was there, in a
loving voice.
114. In reality, it was the woman’s own story, as she would
narrate it. It was told in her presence and she listened to
it with great care.
115.“My hands, stomach and waist have been hurting severely
since a long time. I am fed up of taking medicines as
nothing gives me relief.
116. I am tired of taking medicines because they have no effect.
But right now I am surprised to find that all the pains have
disappeared, suddenly”.
117. Such a story was narrated to a third person without
mentioning the woman’s name or indicating her. This was her
story truly and it related to her only.
118. Later, after a month or two, as Baba had described, she was
relieved of her pains. That was when realisation came to
her.
119. The woman’s desires were fulfilled. Then Sapatnekar took
darshan and Baba again greeted him with the earlier words
“Get away!”
120. ‘I do not know how I have erred! Baba has unfailing contempt
for me. Whenever I bow to him, he has only one answer, which
is customary to him.
121. It must be some accumulation of sins of my earlier lives
which makes him angry with me. Right before my eyes, he
behaves towards others with great love.
122. The whole assembly of devotees seem to experience, mornings
and evenings, a joy as if it were perpetually Divali. It is
only my luck to be told “Get away!”
123. Some action of mine has aggravated him and caused me to be
unrighteous. I am amazed. My sins must be multiple whereby
he is displeased with me.
124. In the beginning, I was vile towards Baba and full of
doubts. I feel that this is the reason why Baba is using
this method to put me in my place’.
125. Therefore, he decided that till Baba favoured him he would
stay there with a concentrated and peaceful mind.
126. Who has gone away disappointed without finding relief, even
if he is suffering from the three-fold calamities, if he is
yearning for Sai’s darshan?
127. That day, he was very depressed and lost his appetite. He
did not feel like going anywhere and could not even sleep.
128. He decided to find an opportunity when Baba would be alone
on his seat with no one near him. He would then hold on to
his feet.
129. No sooner than Sapatnekar took this decision that his
determination bore fruit. Becoming emotional, he fell at
Baba’s feet and held them.
130. When he placed his head on the feet, Baba rested his hand on
his head. Then Sapatnekar began pressing his feet, when a
shepherd woman (Dhangar) came there.
131. As soon as the woman came there, she began pressing Baba’s
waist; and Baba according to his usual practice started
talking to her.
132. The marvel of that story was that when Sapatnekar listened
to it carefully, he found it to be the story of his own
life, word to word.
133. Although it was the shepherd woman who gave the appropriate
responses to the story, Sapatnekar sat spell bound listening
to his own story and was amazed.
134. It was told as if it was the story of a grocer but in
reality it was his, including that of his dead son and about
death.
135. It was as if a close acquaintance or a relative was
narrating the whole story, from the time of birth to death,
in all details.
136. Though the story was being told to the woman, she had no
connection with it at all. It was the story of the father
and the son, and only concerned the two in all respects.
137. Be that as it may be. When Sapatnekar heard his own story
from Sai’s mouth, in this manner, he was greatly surprised
and his reverence for Sai’s feet grew strong.
138. He was very amazed! How did Baba know all this? But Baba
knew all this as easily as if he were holding an ‘amalak’
fruit on his palm.
139. When he was himself the Supreme Being, then the world was
his family. He is all-pervasive in this world. This is Sai’s
attribute.
140. When Sai is the Avatar that bears witness to the unity of
all beings, how can he differentiate? He himself is the
whole universe.
141. With One who is one with God, how can there be a question of
duality? The one who sees, the act of seeing and the object
that is seen are not different for such a person, just as
the sky is not affected by any colour or dirt.
142. Baba was very omniscient. This was realised by Sapatnekar.
Good and virtuous people, hear now what Baba said to him.
143. Pointing his finger at him, Baba spoke these words in a tone
of surprise: “He says that I have killed his son. He blames
me for it.
144. Do I kill people’s children? Why does he come and weep in
the Masjid? Very well, I will do this now. I will bring back
his son through his wife’s womb.
145. Just as the dead Ramdas was given back to that woman, I will
bring back his own son in his wife’s womb”.
146. Hearing this, Sapatnekar gazed at Baba and awaited. Baba
placed his hand on his head and assured him.
147. He said: “These feet are ancient. Your worries are over now.
Have full faith in me. You will be fulfilled soon”.
148. Sapatnekar was pressing Baba’s feet when he heard these
sweet words. He was choked with emotion and his eyes filled
with tears. He prostrated at Baba’s feet.
149. He was filled with the eight ‘satvik’ emotions. His eyes had
tears of joy with which he washed Baba’s feet with love.
150.AgainAgain Baba placed his hand on his head and said: “Stay
peacefully and without worry”. Then Sapatnekar left for the
place where he was staying and returned very happily.
151. He prepared the ‘naivedya’ and handed it over to his wife.
Then ‘puja’ and ‘arati’ was done. The platter was offered to
Baba.
152. Water was sprinkled over it. All the rituals were done, like
touching the water to the eyes, saying the mantra, offering
the food to all the elements, etc. And then it was offered
to Baba.
153. Then following the usual custom, Baba touched it with his
hand in token of acceptance of the ‘naivedya’.
154. Then as the other devotees present prostrated at Baba’s
feet, Sapatnekar pushed his way into the crowd, and again
did a quick ‘namaskar’.
155. Thus, in that hurry, heads knocked against one another. Then
Baba spoke to Sapatnekar, serenely.
156.“Oh! Why so often do you do namaskar after namaskar? It is
enough to do it once, with reverence and honour”.
157. Be that as it may. That night, there was a chavadi
procession and Sapatnekar liked it immensely. He lovingly
started in front of the ‘palkhi’ and delightedly carried the
staff.
158. The listeners are already familiar with this chavadi
procession. Therefore, to avoid making the book too long, I
am not going to repeat it.
159. Later that night, Sapatnekar felt that instead of Baba he
was visualising Pandurang. This was Baba’s unfathomable
leela!
160. Then when he asked for permission to leave (on the next
day), he was told to eat and then go. He obeyed the
instruction implicitly. Then, when leaving he went for
darshan.
161. Then suddenly a thought struck him: ‘If Baba now asks for
dakshina how will I be able to give it?’
162. The money that he had was spent and only enough was left for
the return fare. Therefore, he mentally prepared an answer
if Baba said: “Give me dakshina”.
163. He decided to give one rupee into Baba’s hand even before it
was asked; then if he asked, one more could be offered. If
asked again, he would say he had no more.
164. He decided to frankly tell Baba that he had kept enough only
for the train fare; and then he went to meet Baba.
165. According to his firm resolution, made earlier, he put one
rupee into Baba’s hand and he was asked for only one more.
When it was given, Baba clearly told him:
166.“Take this one coconut. Place it in your wife’s sari end.
Then you go happily, leaving aside all worries of life”.
167. Then, after a year had passed, a son was born to them. They
both came again for darshan, when the boy was eight months
old.
168. They laid the boy at Baba’s feet. How, wonderful are the
deeds of saints! Then, both of them folded their hands and
entreated Baba. Listen to it.
169.“O Sainath, how can we now redeem this obligation? We are at
a loss to understand. We only place our heads at your feet.
170. We are lowly, poor and insignificant. Have mercy on us,
orphans. From now onwards, let us have refuge at your feet.
171. Many thoughts and ideas trouble us in our waking hours and
in our dreams, day and night. So fix our minds on your
worship”.
172. So be it. With that boy, Murlidhar, and with two others
Bhaskar and Dinkar, Sapatnekar was fulfilled in their
company, later on2.
173. Then, along with his wife, he prostrated before merciful
Sai. They attained mental peace and stability and returned
after being fulfilled.
174. I had intended to tell this story briefly, when I commenced
the narration. But Sainath is making me speak on, hence this
chapter has lengthened.
175. This Hemad surrenders to him. Now let me give an indication
of the story in the next chapter to the listeners.
176. That story is even more interesting than this. Sai fulfilled
the wish of a devotee, who had a liking for miracles,
silently.
177. When Sai’s attributes are praised, there are people who are
prone to find fault as they see them only. They have no
motive for self gain nor are they attached to spiritual
gain. Their only aim is to find fault.
178.“Sai Baba may be a saint. Yet unless he gives me some
experience and unless I have some proof, I cannot believe in
and accept him.” This is what they say.
179. In the next chapter is the story of one who had gone only to
test him but even his wishes were fulfilled. Virtuous
listeners should hear it.
May there be well-being. This is the end of the forty-eighth
chapter of Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the devotee
Hemadpant; impelled by Saints and virtuous people, called
“Granting of Favour to Doubting Devotee”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
Impressions made with a red hot stamping instrument, which maybe
of copper, on their flesh, as done by the followers of Vishnu.
2. Lt. Col. M.B. Nimbalkar (Retd.) mentions that Sapatnekar and
his wife Parvatibai had eight sons and one daughter. Baba is said to
have done several ‘tilaks’ of udi on Parvatibai’s forehead and said that
she could take as many children as she wanted.
“
Mahadeo V.Sapatnekar
Parvatibai M.Sapatnekar
Take this one coconut. Place it in your wife’s sari end. Then you go
happily, leaving aside all worries of life”. (Ch. 48, ovi 166)
Then, after a year had passed, a son was born to them. They both came
again for darshan, when the boy was eight months old. (Ch. 48, ovi 167)
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