What is a 'Parayan,' and how does this practice help build a community around a spiritual figure like Sai Baba?

A Parayan, or Saptah, is a dedicated, devotional reading of a sacred text, often performed over a specific period. Chapter 0 explains that by performing Parayans of a detailed poetic Guru biography, devotees engage in a form of Guru service. When a community of devotees collectively studies and performs Parayans of a central work like the Shri Sai Satcharita, it not only benefits each individual but also allows the original writer to gain merit for public service. This shared practice of studying a central text helps devotees achieve their life's purpose and strengthens community bonds through shared spiritual activity.