What does the story of Dharamsee's conversion teach us about the role of ego in the path to devotion?

The transformation of Boss Dharamsee provides a powerful lesson on ego and devotion. As described in Chapter 35, Dharamsee initially approached Baba with a 'clinical scrutiny', his ego firmly in place. He judged the situation, disliking the grapes and questioning Baba's abilities in his own mind. This ego created a barrier. The miracle was not just a display of power, but a direct strike at this ego. By knowing his innermost thoughts and transforming the object of his dislike, Baba showed him the limits of his own understanding. The text explicitly states, 'All his ego dropped away, and love for the saint was born.' This shows that the dissolution of ego is a crucial step for devotion to arise, as it makes space for humility, awe, and love.