The text seems to discourage argumentation and logic. Does this mean Sai Baba is against intellectual pursuits and critical thinking?

The source material doesn't suggest a rejection of all intellectual activity, but rather warns against a specific mindset. Chapter 2 clarifies that "where there is a mind for argumentation, there is abundance of ignorance and Maya." This refers to engaging in debate for the sake of ego, establishing one's own side, and refuting others, which is described as a "useless effort." The author, Hemadpant, even describes his former self as having a "logic-driven mind" and being "prone to argumentation," which he frames as a negative trait. The focus, as detailed in Chapter 2, is on avoiding "bad thoughts and false logic" that make one unfit for self-knowledge, and instead cultivating faith and devotion.