According to the teachings, what is the specific function of devotion in the pursuit of Brahman-knowledge?

The teachings in Chapter 50 emphasize that the primary function of devotion is to prepare the mind for the dawn of knowledge. Baba explains that the mind is soiled by ignorance, or Avidya, and this impurity cannot be cleansed without devotion to God. Just as applying a special collyrium to the eyes of a 'payal' allows them to see hidden wealth, resorting to devotion removes the veil of ignorance. As stated in Chapter 50, 'without devotion, knowledge is not born.' Therefore, devotion acts as the essential catalyst that purifies the mind, destroys the bondage of ignorance, and creates the necessary conditions for the ultimate Brahman-knowledge to arise and be realized.