What is the significance of love (Prem) in the path of devotion according to the Sai Satcharitra?

In the path of devotion, the Sai Satcharitra places the highest importance on love (Prem). As explained in Chapter 48, the greatness of love is such that everything else is trivial before it. If a devotee does not possess deep love, then spiritual practices like listening and reading are considered fruitless. The text asserts that devotion itself dwells where there is love, and in that same place reside all peace and detachment. In fact, liberation is said to stand right behind love, along with all its spiritual wealth, underscoring its supreme significance for any seeker.