What is the deeper philosophical meaning that Sai Baba conveyed by distributing Udi from the Dhuni?

The act of giving Udi was a profound teaching from Sai Baba. As detailed in Chapter 33, the Udi was meant to serve as a powerful symbol and reminder. Baba's intention was to show that the entire visible universe is transient and ultimately nothing but ash. He taught that our own bodies, made of five elements, will also become ash once their destined experiences are exhausted. By giving the Vibhuti, he encouraged devotees to maintain this awareness day and night, reminding them of the impermanent nature of worldly existence.