What was the purpose of Sai Baba's incarnation, and how does that relate to his physical departure?

According to Chapter 43, the fundamental purpose of avatars and saints like Sai Baba is the 'welfare of people' and the 'protection' of devotees. The text explains that he 'appeared in Shirdi for the sake of the devotees’ protection,' drawn by their past merits and devotion. His physical departure is framed not as a death, but as the conclusion of this specific mission. When the 'task for the devotees is over,' such beings do not perish but 'merge into the unmanifest' to rejoin their true, formless state as Brahman. Therefore, his departure was a transition back to his essential nature after fulfilling his earthly purpose.