Why is meditating on Sai Baba's manifest form considered so important in Chapter 11?

According to Chapter 11, meditating on the manifest (Saguna) form of the Guru is paramount because it is the catalyst for genuine devotion. The text argues that for a worshipper who possesses a physical body, a Guru in a physical form is necessary for devotion to take root. Without this meditation, the "bud of the mind does not open," meaning spiritual progress is hindered. This practice of meditating on the manifest form is considered as powerful as the chanting of the Eleven Rudras. It enables the devotee to perceive the Guru's greatness and his authority over the five elements, which are central themes of the chapter.