According to Chapter 37, the pursuit of a heavenly abode is misguided if it lacks devotion. The text questions the desire for a heaven attained through sacrifices and penance but devoid of the remembrance of God. It states that heaven is merely a place for sensual enjoyment, and there's no real difference in the pleasure experienced by Indra in his celestial garden or a donkey in a dung-heap. Instead of striving for a temporary heaven from which one falls after their merit is exhausted, it is better to value birth on Earth. Chapter 37 teaches that even a fleeting life on Earth is of profound importance, as offering every action to God can lead to a state of fearlessness, which is the true divine state.
Many spiritual paths focus on attaining heaven. How do Sai's teachings reframe the concept of heaven and the ultimate spiritual goal for his followers?
📖 Chapter 37