What is the deeper philosophical significance behind Baba's practice of distributing Udi, as explained in the Shri Sai Satcharita?

The distribution of Udi by Sai Baba was imbued with profound philosophical meaning. According to Chapter 33 of the Shri Sai Satcharita, Baba used the sacred ash to teach a powerful lesson about the nature of existence. The Udi symbolizes that the entire visible universe is transient and will ultimately turn to ash. He intended for this Vibhuti to be a constant reminder that our own bodies, made of five elements, are temporary and will also become ash once their destined experiences are exhausted. This practice was meant to help devotees distinguish between the illusory world (Maya) and the ultimate reality of Brahman.