Why is a Guru considered so important in Chapter 26? What can they do for a disciple?

In Chapter 26, the Guru is presented as absolutely essential for spiritual progress because they are the only one capable of granting the knowledge of Truth to a disciple. The text explains that the world is an illusion, and the Guru's words are what awaken an individual from this dream-like state. The author prays to the Sadguru, Sai Baba, to make their intellect turn inward and grant them the ability to discriminate between the eternal and the temporary. According to the teachings in Chapter 26, when the Guru-Soul, who is God, is pleased, one can realize the true, self-luminous nature of the Self, which is the ultimate goal.