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

The story of the tiger in Chapter 31 provides a profound lesson on the significance of dying in the presence of a saint. When the diseased tiger was brought before Sai Baba, it bowed its head, met his gaze, and then died at his feet. The text explains that this is not a sorrowful event but a moment of supreme liberation. Dying before a saint is described as a great merit that saves one from all sins and ends the cycle of rebirth. Chapter 31 states that such a death is not truly death but an attainment of heavenly bliss, or "Vaikuntha's bliss," and is considered true self-salvation. This event is seen as the fulfillment of great fortune and the clearing of past life debts.