Chapter 40 presents a compelling contrast between the divine and the worldly. It describes Sai Baba's state as inscrutable and all-pervading, similar to the sky which is 'perfectly full, inside and out.' For Baba, a 'Leelavatari,' physical coming and going is mere 'worldly talk.' In stark opposition to this limitless nature is his devotee, Dev, who is grounded in his role as the Mamlatdar. Dev's responsibilities are practical and sequential; he must manage town collections and prioritize tasks. When asked to support a religious work for cow protection, he responds not with a miracle, but with a pragmatic assessment of timing and resources, asking the Sanyasi to return later. This juxtaposition highlights how a devotee must navigate their earthly duties while maintaining faith in a divine being who operates beyond such constraints.
How does Chapter 40 contrast Sai Baba's divine, all-pervading nature with the practical responsibilities of his devotee, Dev?
π Chapter 40