How did Sai Baba perceive his own identity compared to how his devotees saw him?

Chapter 23 of the Shri Sai Satcharitra explains this contrast clearly. Devotees considered Baba to be an Incarnation (Avatar) because they observed all the necessary signs and characteristics. However, Sai Baba himself maintained a position of profound humility. He would frequently state, "I am a humble servant in the court of Allah" and referred to himself as a "poor servant." His constant chants included "Allah Malik" (God is the Master), and he never proclaimed "Anal Haq" (I am God), instead seeing the divine in all things while remaining a servant of God.