The story of feeding a black dog is often cited as a test of faith. Was Dev's Udyapan ceremony, where he failed to recognize Sai, also a test?

While the provided text doesn't mention feeding a black dog, the incident at Dev's Udyapan ceremony described in Chapter 40 can certainly be interpreted as a profound test of faith and perception. Dev invited Baba, who promised to come. When an unknown Sanyasi arrived with two others, Dev fed them but remained doubtful and disappointed, believing Baba hadn't come. Later, as Chapter 40 recounts, Baba revealed He was that Sanyasi. Dev's failure to recognize Him led to his own realization: "Shame, shame! I blamed Sai in vain! ... Shame on the pride of my knowledge!" This experience served as a powerful lesson for Dev about overcoming delusion.