What does the story of the tiger in the Sai Satcharita teach us about the significance of dying in the presence of a saint?

The story of the tiger illustrates that dying in the presence of a saint is a profound blessing and a path to liberation. As detailed in Chapter 31, when the diseased tiger was brought before Sai Baba, it gazed at Him, bowed, and immediately died at His feet. This event is not seen as a sad death, but as the creature attaining liberation and being saved from all its sins. The text emphasizes that to leave one's body before a saint's eyes is an act of great merit, transforming death into Vaikuntha's bliss and ensuring there is no rebirth. This act is described as the ultimate "earning of life," a salvation that breaks the bonds of past karma.