What is the deeper philosophical teaching that Sai Baba conveyed through the distribution of Udi?

The act of giving Udi was not merely a ritual but a profound teaching on the nature of existence. Chapter 33 explains that Baba used the sacred ash to illustrate a core spiritual truth: the entire visible universe is as transient as ash. The Udi serves as a constant reminder that our bodies, which are made of the five elements, are temporary. They exist only to experience destined enjoyments and, once those are exhausted, will become ash. Through this act, Baba encouraged his followers to remember this impermanence and distinguish between illusion (Maya) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).