Why was Appasaheb in 'debt' and how did a Fakir become involved?

Appasaheb's debt was a spiritual one, born from a promise he made. As recounted in Chapter 33, he felt that the one rupee his family had given to a Fakir was insufficient and declared, "Had I been there, I would have given ten times more." He thus gave his word that he would give ten rupees. This unfulfilled promise created a spiritual obligation. The scripture explains that a Fakir, implied to be Sai Baba in disguise, later appeared to collect on this promise. This wasn't a random beggar; the visit was a test of Appasaheb's resolve and a way for him to become 'debt-free' by fulfilling the word he had given, demonstrating the importance of acting on one's devotional intentions.