Chapter 9 presents a strict rule about departing Shirdi. What happens if a devotee leaves without permission versus what happens if they stay too long after receiving permission?

Chapter 9 details a dual-sided principle regarding departure from Shirdi. On one hand, leaving without Sai Baba's explicit permission is shown to invite severe misfortune. The text notes that those who did so suffered greatly on their way, with some even being looted by thieves. On the other hand, the rule is just as strict for those who have received permission. It is emphasized that once permission is given, one should not stay in Shirdi for even a moment longer, because delaying one's departure also brings trouble upon one's head, an experience many devotees reportedly had.