The scripture says Sai Baba is in Samadhi, but also that he is 'beyond birth and death.' How does the text explain this paradox?

Chapter 33 addresses this philosophical point directly. It questions whether being in Samadhi means one is dead, and firmly states that Sai is beyond the concepts of birth and death, remaining ever-present and steadfast. To explain this, the text provides a powerful analogy: Baba's presence is like fire hidden within wood. While the fire is not visible, it is contained within and can be made manifest through the process of friction. In the same way, Sai becomes manifest for his devotees, responding to their call when they are hungry for his exclusive, undivided love.