Why did Sai Baba sometimes accept Dakshina from one person but refuse it from another? What was his explanation for this apparent partiality?

When questioned by Shama about his apparent partiality in financial matters, Sai Baba provided a profound explanation. As detailed in Chapter 36, Baba clarified, "I don't take anything from anyone. Mother Masjid demands what is owed, and the giver becomes free from debt." He explained that his actions were not driven by personal need, as he was "detached in every way," but by the karmic obligations of his devotees. In the specific case Shama witnessed, Baba was collecting a fifteen-rupee debt from a man who had long ago vowed his first salary to God but had forgotten as his wealth increased. By accepting the Dakshina, Baba was liberating the man from this forgotten vow, demonstrating that his actions were always for the spiritual benefit of others.