What is the primary philosophical message of Chapter 26 regarding reality and the role of the Guru?

Chapter 26 presents a profound philosophical message, stating that the entire physical universe is an illusion created by Maya, akin to a city reflected in a mirror or a dream that vanishes upon waking. As detailed in this chapter, this perceived world is described as having no independent existence outside of the Self. Due to ignorance, one might mistake a rope for a snake, and similarly, we mistake this illusion for reality. The chapter emphasizes that only a Guru is capable of granting the true knowledge that dispels this illusion. The author prays to Sai Baba to grant the discrimination between the eternal and the temporary, highlighting that the Guru is the sole guide to realizing the self-luminous and eternal nature of the Self.