Why did Sai Baba choose to beg for his food rather than prepare it himself?

According to the principles discussed in Chapter 9, Sai Baba's practice of begging for alms was the most appropriate and commendable form of conduct for him. This is because Baba was a pure celibate and a sanyasi, and the scriptures explicitly prohibit ascetics and celibates from cooking their own food. The text clarifies that if they attempt to cook, the burden of penance falls upon them. Therefore, their sustenance is entrusted to householders. As Chapter 9 explains, by begging, Baba was not only adhering to the path of an ascetic but also allowing householders to fulfill their sacred duty of offering food first to ascetics, thereby achieving their own welfare.