Chapter 9 mentions two seemingly distinct themes: the importance of getting permission to leave Shirdi and the idea that Sai pervades all beings. How might these concepts be related?

Chapter 9 presents teachings that, while appearing distinct, are deeply interconnected. The rule about seeking permission to leave Shirdi underscores Baba's omniscience and control over time and circumstance for the devotee's welfare. This connects to the broader philosophical concept, also introduced in the ninth chapter, that 'Sai is pervaded everywhere' and 'God resides in all beings.' If Baba is omnipresent and resides in all, then his guidance is not limited to his physical form in the mosque. His instruction to 'wait a little' or 'go tomorrow' is an expression of this all-pervading consciousness acting for the devotee's benefit, reinforcing that adherence to the Guru's word is adherence to a divine, all-knowing will.