As recounted in Chapter 33, Appasaheb had made a verbal promise to give ten Rupees but had not yet fulfilled it. Not long after, a Fakir came to him. However, Appasaheb became suspicious because this Fakir was a stranger. The story implies this Fakir was Sai Baba in disguise, who came as a 'pretext for Dakshina' to test Appasaheb's resolve. Despite having six Rupees nearby, Appasaheb hesitated and did not offer the money. This incident serves as a lesson, showing that while we may be quick with 'verbal promises,' we often show 'much hesitation' at the time of giving, and our spirit becomes downcast.
Why was Appasaheb suspicious of the Fakir who came to him, and what does this story teach about promises?
๐ Chapter 33