QUIZ on The Divine Life and Message of Sri Sathya Sai Baba

1. Where and when was Bhagavaan Sri Sathya Sai Baba born?

Bhagavaan Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born on 23rd November 1926 at Puttaparthi in Ananthapur District.

2. Give the details related to His birth - Month, Star, etc.

Baba was born on Monday in the holy month of Kaarthik (Kaarthika Somavaara) of the year Akshaya in the ascendance star "Aardhra".

3. In which clan was He born?

Baba was born in the Rathnaakara family of Bharadhvaaja gothra and Aapasthamba suuthra.

4. Why did He choose to be born in that family alone?

A certain ancestor of Ratnaakara family, Venkaavadhuutha prayed to the Lord of the Universe that He should be born in his family.

5. What are the names of His parents?

(Mother's name) Eeshvaraamba and (father's name) Pedda Venkama Raju.

6. Why was Baba named as Satya Narayana?

Baba was born after mother Eeshvaramma had taken the Prasaadham of Sri Sathyanaaraayana Vratham which her mother-in-law had brought from the next door family.

7. Who is Kondama Raju?

Kondama Raaju was the grandfather of Baba.

8. What were the mysterious intimations of the impending Divine Incarnation?

Before Baba was born, a Thambuura, a stringed musical instrument which was kept leaning against a wall started twanging and a drum started beating automatically, producing celestial music.

9. What did the women in the labour room find in the bed clothes on which the child was put?

They found a cobra under the bed clothes.

10. What was the original name of Puttaparthi?

Gollapalli.

11. What is the meaning of Puttaparthi?

Putta means ant-hill - place full of ant-hills.

12. What is the name of the river that flows in Parthi?

Chithraavathi.

13. What are the temples that we find in Parthi?

Venugopaalaswamy temple, Sathyabhaama temple, Aanjaneya temple and the temple of Shiva.

14. What is the significance related to the temple of Shiva?

The place where Shiva temple is constructed, is the birth place of Baba.

15. How many brothers and sisters does Baba have?

Two brothers and two sisters; elder brother is Seshama Raju, younger brother is Jaanakiraamayya; sisters: Venkamma and Paarvathamma.

16. What was the name given to Baba as a boy?

Brahmajnaani, Biddalaguru (Guru of children).

17. What were the noble qualities that one could find in Baba even as a child?

Baba was kind and compassionate even at the tender age of four and five. He sought out the maimed, the blind and the decrepit, fed and gave them clothes. He would plead against the killing of a fowl or chicken for curry at home. He was against all sports and games that caused pain and cruelty. He was reticent and reserved, but always cheerful.

18. Give one instance to illustrate the quality of desirelessness in Baba even as a child?

Baba's grandfather used to purchase yards of clothes for his grandchildren, during festivals. He used to ask the children to choose the cloth they liked. Baba never bothered, but just took whatever was kept aside.

19. Even as a boy, Baba never considered, doing any work as mean or below his dignity. Give example.

Baba had only one pair of dress. He used to wear a towel, wash his shirt and knicker, dry them up, put live coal in a brass vessel, iron them, fold them and keep them under a steel trunk.

20. In which places did Baba study?

Puttaparthi, Bukkapatnam, Kamalaapuram, Uravankonda.

21. What did Baba do as soon as he went to school?

He used to gather the children at school under a tree. He would keep a picture or an idol with flowers, conduct Puuja, Bhajan and perform aarathi. At the end of the session, he distributed Prasaadh. He used to take the Prasaadh out from his empty bag.

22. Who were the teachers who considered Baba as a Divine wonder child?

Mehboob Khan, Subbannaachaar and Kondappa.

23. What was the first divine power that Baba showed in the school?

One of the teachers made Sathya stand on the bench presuming that he was absent minded. When the period was over and the next teacher who had to take class in that room came, he found the previous teacher mysteriously glued to his seat. The teacher who entered the class was Mehboob Khan. He understood the situation, asked Sathya to sit down. Then the teacher could stand up himself, without the chair accompanying him.

24. Baba used to gather many children and organise Bhajan session. What was the name of that Bhajan Group?

Pandari Bhajan Group. It consisted of 18 children who wore yellow coloured robes.

25. Why did Baba organise Bhajan sessions?

In order to make the people interested in sacred Bhajans and prevent them from going to cheap musical sessions. But there was another important purpose, to drive away from a locality any epidemic disease.

26. What was the name of the dancer in whose stead Baba danced?

Rishyendhramani.

27. What was the unique skill in dance demonstrated by Baba?

Rishyendhramani used to keep a bottle balanced on her head, dance to music, finally pick up with her teeth a hand kerchief from the floor. But Baba instead of picking up a kerchief with the teeth, could pick up a needle with his eyelids.

28. When the District Collector wanted to pin the prize medal and shake hands, why did Baba refuse?

The collector wanted to pin the medal on to the dress of the dancer and shake hands. But Sathya refused to shake hands and receive the medal. Since he was in the role of a girl dancer, he thought it would be proper to act according to the role. He could not permit a man to touch him.

29. What was the name of the play-let written by Baba as a boy?

"Cheppinattu chesthaara" - will you do as you say?

30. Who is Kota Subbanna?

Kota Subbanna was a businessman at Kamalaapuram. Sathya would compose songs set them to catchy tunes on a newly arrived product to advertise the product. Subbanna would engage some boys to go round the village streets with placards and announcing the product and singing in chorus, Sathya's ditties. In exchange of this help Subbanna used to supply Sathya whatever he needed in day to day life. Sathya even at that age seemed to have projected the idea of earning while learning. He did not want to be a dependent.

31. What are the names of students who sat on either side of Baba?

Ramesh and Sudhir.

32. To which place did the boys of Kamalaapuram school go for service?

Pushpagiri.

33. What is the reply given by Baba when his friend offered him scout uniform?

Sathya wrote to his friend and classmate thus: "True friendship should never be based on give and take. The bond that should exist is love. True friendship should be from heart to heart".

34. How could Baba manage to get money to go to service camp?

By selling the books of the previous class to a poor harijan boy.

35. What did Baba do after that to procure money?

Baba participated in Budabuda kata.

36. When Baba returned from the service camp, what did he bring for his sister-in-law?

Sathya brought Kumkum (red powder), haldi (turmeric), bangles and flowers (they are usually given to married women)

37. Why was his brother angry with Baba?

The family depended on Sathya for supply of fresh water. He used to bring water from a distant well. Sathya's absence from home to participate in the Service camp, inconvenienced the family.

38. Who was the teacher who loved Baba very much in Uravakonda?

Manchiraju Thammiraju.

39. What is the significance of the date 20-5-1940?

Baba got up early in the morning, called the neighbours and relatives, materialised and distributed delicious Prasad. He asked the people to wash their feet and come in for worship.

40. How did Baba's father threaten him?

Sathya's father wanted to teach his son a lesson and put an end to the strange and hysterical chapter. He armed himself with a stick and shouted at Sathya: "Are you a God, a ghost or a madcap?"

41. What was Baba's reply?

Baba said: "I am Sai Baba. I belong to Aapasthamba Suthra. I am of Bhaaradhvaja Gothra or lineage. I have come to ward off your troubles. Your ancestor Venkaavadhuutha prayed that I should be born in your family. So I have come."

42. How did Baba prove that he was Sai Baba?

He threw a handful of jasmine flowers on the floor. To the utter amazement of one and all, the flowers on the ground re-arranged themselves into letters in Telugu, "Sai Baba".

43. What happened in Hampi-Viruupaaksha temple?

Sathya, accompanied his brother Seshamaaraju and many others to Hampi. They went to Viruupaaksha temple. Sathya preferred to stand outside, while others went in for worship. The puujari or priest was performing camphor-aarathi to the deity of the temple. To the surprise of all, they saw the smiling face of Sathya, and not the stone image. Seshamaaraju had his own suspicion. He came out only to find Sathya standing.

44. When and where did Baba declare that He is the Avathaar of the Age?

On 20th October, 1940 in Uravakonda, in a place adjacent to the house of the Excise Inspector Mr. Aanjaneyulu.

45. What happened when a photographer took a snap of Baba as He sat on a boulder?

It turned out to be the image of Shirdi Sai.

46. What was the first Bhajan song taught by Baba?

"Maanasa bhajare, gurucharanam" - meditate in your mind on the feet of the Guru. That can take you across the sea of Samsaara or transmigratory life.

47. Who is Karanam Subbamma?

Karanam Subbamma was the wife of the Karanam or village officer of Puttaparthi. She recognised in Baba even at the tender age, of his divinity, and can be called the foster mother of Baba. She used to prepare food for the devotees who came to see Baba. She took care of Baba with rare love and affection beyond words.

48. What was the miracle performed by Baba at Uravakonda?

A jutkawaallaah (driver of horse drawn cart) lost his horse. He came to know of the rare powers of the miracle boy and approached Sathya. Sathya told him that his horse was safely grazing at the place nearby. The jutkawaallaah did find the horse.

1. What is the meaning of Sai Baba?

Sai Baba means Divine Mother and Father.

Sah + Ayee + Baba; S = Divine; Ayee = Mother; Baba: Father.

2. How does Baba describe himself?

Sathyam is my Prachaar - Truth is what I speak. Dharmam is my Aachaar - Dharma is what I do. Shanthi is My svabhaav - Shanti (peace) is My nature. Prema is my Swaruup - Prema or Love is my Form.

3. Baba declared that his Avathaaric mission will be executed in three phases. What are they?

The first sixteen years of His life will be a period of Baala Leela. The next sixteen will be spent in Mahimas (divine miracles) to give Santhosh to people. After that life will be full of activity delivering discourses to teach erring humanity to take to the path of righteousness, guiding humanity back to Sanaathana Dharma. (Eternal-Universal Religion)

4. What is the historic letter in which Baba declared his mission in a detailed manner?

Baba's elder brother could not grasp the mystery of Sai phenomenon. He could not tolerate certain caustic comments about the "simple village miracle boy", made by some people. So he wrote letters to Baba warning him and also imparting a lesson that he had learnt in life about human follies and about fame and its trappings.

Baba wrote to his brother on 25th May 1947. First He advises his brother not to attach any value to such comments and take them to heart. Every Avathaar had to face such criticisms. It is very difficult for common people to understand Divinity in human form. They cannot even understand sages. Then He reveals His mission:

"I have a task to foster all mankind and ensure for all of them life full of Aananda.

I have a vow to lead all those who stray away from straight path, back again to goodness and save them.

I am attached to a work that I love; to remove the sufferings of the poor and grant them what they lack.

I have my definition of devotion - those devoted to me have to treat joy and grief, gain and loss, with equal fortitude. This means, I will never give up those attached to me. When I am thus engaged in my beneficial task, how can my name ever be tarnished as you apprehend? Truth shall prevail. Integrity will win."

5. When did Baba declare that he is Shivashakthi in human form?

On Guru Puurnami day 1963.

6. Give the sequence of the Sai Trio.

Shirdi Sai; Sathya Sai; Prema Sai.

7. What is the name of the biography of Bhagavaan Sri Sathya Sai Baba?

Sathyam Shivam Sundaram (Truth, Goodness, Beauty).

8. What is the name of the magazine published in Parthi? When did the publication commence?

Sanaathana Saarathi: 1958.

9. What is the special title given to Baba's writing in the monthly magazine that comes from Prashaanthi Nilayam?

The special title given to Baba's writings in Sanaathana Saarathi in Serials is "VAAHINI";

10. Why did Baba undertake visits to all important shrines in pilgrim centres?

Baba's visit to these ancient shrines (Ayodhya, Varaanasi, Badhrinaath, Pandaripura, Kanyaakumaari, Shrisailam) is to "charge the batteries that have gone weak" - i.e., to rejuvenate and infuse spiritual power in those dynamos of Grace. The resuscitation of holy places is one of the means of Dharma Sthaapana for which He had come.

11. Baba organized and established the following: (a) Prashaanthi Vidwan Mahaasabha (b)Summer courses in Indian Culture and Spirituality (c) Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation. What is the purpose for which these were started?

(a) Prashaanthi Vidhwan Mahaa Sabha: The watch word of Vidwan Maha Sabha is "Thamasoma Jyothirgamaya" - lead (us) from darkness to light; to eradicate ignorance and light the lamp of true knowledge and instil faith in man's true nature - that "He is Aathma divine".

(b) Summer courses: The students and the youth of the present era do not have proper knowledge of Indian culture and spirituality. They are born and bred up in alien culture. In order to acquaint them with the knowledge of Bhaarath and her glory, Swami organised these summer courses.

(c) Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation: It is meant to be a training ground for the members to make themselves deserve Divine Grace through love and service to one and all and to spread Baba's message of Sathya, Dharma, Shanthi and Prema by precept and example.

12. How does Baba fulfil His mission of making man realise that he is Aathman. What are the stages through which he makes man involve himself?

Baba dose CHAMATHKAR (miracles of love) to attract people and instill faith in Divinity and through SAMSKAAR transform and transmute them, then make them involve in PAROPAKAAR selfless service to others so that they might imbibe and inculcate Thyaga (sacrifice) in order to become fit for SAKSHATKAR (actual visualisation of God).

13. What is the meaning of Bhagavaan?

Bhagavaan means one endowed with Bhaga, i.e., unique attributes:

It is also laid down in the Shaasthras that those who have these six primary endowments are referred to as Bhagavaan.

He who knows the mystery of creation, dissolution of created beings, the mystery of their redemption and of their ignorance, wisdom.

14. What are the attributes of an Avathaar?

The word 'Avathaar' means one who descends from the level of God-head to the level of a man only to enable man to ascend to the level of God.

The Avathaar shares the possession of five senses with the world of animals and human beings. He shares with mankind the four attributes of mind, reason, emotion, ahamkar or egoism. Avathaar possesses seven main unique characteristics Srishti, (creative power;) Sthithi, (the power to foster; guard and protect;) Laya, (the power to destroy;) Thirodhaana, (the power to make things disappear;) then there is Anugraha (the power to shower grace) for the deserving and non-deserving as well. An Avathaar is ever present when His name is uttered, form is recognised.

15. Why does Baba perform miracles?

Baba himself has said thus about miracles: "Miracles are very natural and normal to me". He performs miracles to inculcate faith in Divinity. These miracles are to prove to the mortals the Super human powers with which He has come down to redeem humanity from the shackles of ignorance.

16. How did Baba declare that He is the very embodiment of all Gods that mankind has been adoring?

He declared it in the form of a poem:

17. How did Baba prove that He is the re-incarnation of Shirdi Sai.

When His father questioned Baba about Sai Baba, he showed to His father and Karanam Subbamma, the Samaadhi (burial places) of Shirdi Sai Baba, and the nearby places against a wall in a series of pictures.

There lived until recently an old lady called "Peddha Bottu"! Her original name was Shaaradamma, She was the daughter of a collector in the Nizam's dominions. She visited and had the Darshan of Shirdi Sai several times, with her father. She experienced untold miseries after marriage and her husband died, her four children died. Then in utter agony she sought the feet of Shirdi Sai and asked for spiritual initiation in Lendi Baagh in 1917. Baba said, "Not now, I will come again in Andhra. You will meet me and be with me." After many years during her visits to several places where she gave Harikatha (divine story telling performance), she came to Uravakonda. She heard that a certain Baba calls himself re-incarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba. She went to attend a Thursday Bhajan session at Seshamaraju's house. Then Sri Sathya Sai Baba spotted her and said "So you have come, my child, you owe me sixteen rupees" - only to prove to Shaaradamma that He is Shirdi Sai come again as promised. Shaaradamma sent to Shirdi Dasara celebration, Rs.40/- through a man called Balarama. He returned to her 24 rupees. Baba addressed her as 'Gori' (the pet name given to her by Shirdi Sai Baba to Peddha Bottu alias Shaaradamma).

18. In what form did Baba give Dharsan to (a) Purushotthamaanandha (b) Karnam Subbamma (c) Abhedhaananda (d) to people gathered on the sea shore of Machilipatnam.

(a) Jyotheeruupa Anantha Padhmanaabha Swami (b) Karanam Subbamma could see in the wide open mouth of Sathya, the entire Universe and creation, (c) Ramana Maharshi (d) Shesha Saayi.

19. Why does Baba give gifts to His devotees?

Baba Himself has said thus about gifts. The gifts are expressions of his Grace and Love. 'They are like my visiting cards and send me instant flashes when the person to whom the gift is given is in danger or in need of my help. Sometimes these gifts are for the sake of health or to indicate right path'.

20. To whom did Baba give these unique gifts? (a) Jesus on cross, (b) Bhagawad-Geetha from sands (c) idol of Annapurna.

(a) John Hislop (b) Dr. Bhagawantham (c) To the Principal of a Saainik school when Baba visited, Jaamnagar and nearby places. He instructed that the idol of Annapuurna may be kept in the dining hall of the hostel. Annapuurna bestows food that endows one with 'puurnathvam' or fulfilment.

21. Who wrote Suprabhaatham?

Sri Thirumalaachaar.

22. What is the meaning of Baba?

BABA means : B = Being, A = Awareness, B = Bliss, A = Aathmaa.

Baba is Aathma: Being, Awareness and Bliss.

23. Baba says "You are not one person, but three". Explain.

24. How does Baba describe the sequence in Vishishtaadhvaitha and Adhvaitha?

Swami says the progress of man, the pilgrim of eternity, passes through the three stages of Vishistaadhvaita, Dvaitha and Adhvaitha as stated by Jesus and Zoraster as well in the following manner.

1. What are the six basic principles on which Baba's philosophy of life and education are based?

The six basic principles of Baba's philosophy of life and education are SATHYA (truth); DHARMA (Righteousness) SHANTHI (peace); PREMA (love), AHIMSA (Non-violence) and THYAGA (Sacrifice).

2. What is the meaning of Human value?

That which gives value to man is the realisation of the fact that he has to seek and find the place from where he had come. Man alone has this capacity.

3. What is 3 - H.V.?

3-HV stands for head, heart and hand. V = values.

4. Who is an integrated personality?

One who has the head of Aadi Shankara, the heart of Buddha and the hands of Janaka.

5. Of the six human values. Love is said to run as an undercurrent. How?

When love enters one's thought and word it becomes truth. When love is expressed in right action it is Dharma. Love in feeling is peace. Love in understanding is Ahimsa or non-violence and Love in selfless service is Thyaaga.

6. What are the ideals of Sri Sathya Sai Education?

The ideals of Sri Sathya Sai education are knowledge, skill, balance, insight and identification and service. The pursuit of Truth yields secular and spiritual knowledge. Dharma or right action is the result of acquiring three skills - self help skills, ethical skills and social skills. The pursuit of peace will result in equanimity - balance between thought and action. It is through love one develops insight and through non-violence identification. Love here means Truth by intuition, nonviolence should imply the essence of the saying "mamaathma Sarvaboothaantharathma".(I am present as Aathma in every living being) and sacrifice is selfless loving.

7. How many types of knowledge are there?

Superficial knowledge; bookish knowledge; general knowledge, discriminatory knowledge; practical knowledge.

8. What is the difference between individual discrimination and fundamental discrimination?

Individual discrimination is related to selfish interest. Fundamental discrimination is related to doing good to one and all.

9. What are the three Ps of life?

Purity, Patience, Perseverance.

10. What are the four Fs of life ? What do they stand for?

Follow the Master; Face the devil; Fight to the end; Finish the game. They stand for Dharma, Artha, Kaama and Moksha (Righteousness, prosperity and fulfilment through service and liberation).

11. What are the five Ds that students have to cultivate to achieve anything in life?

Dedication, Devotion, Discipline, Discrimination and Determination.

12. What are the fourteen undesirable qualities that man has to give up?

The 8 types of pride and 6 evils: Pride of strength, birth, scholarship, wealth, penance, beauty, youth, authority; evils of desire, anger, greed, infatuation, arrogance, jealousy.

13. What are the true flowers (qualities) of worship?

Non-violence, compassion, sense control, forbearance, peace, penance, meditation and truth.

14. What are the five evils that students have to avoid?

Seeing evil, hearing evil, speaking evil, thinking evil, doing evil.

15. What are the four sins that human tongue is liable to commit?

To tell lies, to talk too much, to engage in slander, to carry tales.

16. What are the four components of 'ceiling on desires'?

17. Who are our real kinsmen?

18. Fill up the blanks:

19. Give the meaning of the following: Man; Nara; Human; Maanava; Moksha; Samaadhi; History; Hindu.

Man: M = Maya A = Aathma N = Nirvana. When Maya is removed, Aathma is revealed and then Nirvana is attained.

Nara: Na - without or (Not) Ra - Destructible One who is without destruction.

Maanava: Maa + Na + Va - One who is free from ignorance.

Maa + nava - One who is not new.

Moksha: Moha Kshaya (Moha - delusion, kshaya - destruction).

Samaadhi: Sama + dhi - Equal mindedness (In this state there is no experience of pain or pleasure, loss or gain. heat or cold, praise or blame. It is the nature of the SELF ever unaffected by duality).

History: His story.

20. What is the five lettered Manthra that Swami gave on Shivaraathri?

WATCH

21. Arrange the following in proper sequence: (a) Head, Food, God. (b) World, Self, God. (c) God, Father, Mother. (d) Unity, Purity, Charity, Divinity.

22. What are the two things that one has to forget and remember?

Forget the harm done to you by others; forget the good done by you to others.

Remember the good done by others to you remember the bad done by you to others.

23. Who is the richest man in the world?

One who has few desires is the richest man.

24. What kind of man will not be troubled by Kali Yuga (Kaliage)?

One whose heart is filled with compassion One whose lips always speak truth One whose body is made use of to help others.

25. What are the real ornaments for an individual?

Charity is the ornament that should adorn the hand. Truth is the ornament for the faculty of speech and listening to scriptural texts is the ornament for the ears.

26. What are the four Purushaarthas (objectives) that students have to pursue?

Maithri (friendship); Karuna (compassion) Muditha (sense of appreciation) Upeksha (to be away from undesirable people and action).

27. Swami gives unique meanings to some words. Give such meaning for the following: (a) Maithri (b) Foreigners (c) Forest (d) Interview.

Maithri is spelt as My Three standing for purity of Mind, Word and Deed.

Foreigners are far - nears

Forest is for rest

Interview - to enter view.

28. In what context does Swami make use of the following analogies: (a) Lock and key (b) Garland of flowers (c) Seed and tree (d) Registered letter (e) Postman (f) Mariner's compass (g) current, wire, bulb, light (h) Car.

a) Lock and Key: To explain the truth that human mind is the cause of bondage and liberation, Swami uses this simile.

b) Garland of flowers: is cited as an example to explain Brahma Suthra. Just as different kinds of flowers are strung in a thread which is invisible, so also the invisible Divine principle is present in all the beings of creation. c) Seed, Tree: This simile is used to explain the meaning of the Mahaavaakya, THATHVAMASI and the Vedic statement EKOHAM BAHUSYAM.

The seed looking at the tree from which it has come says "I AM THAT".

Just as the manifold parts like branches, leaves, flowers, seeds etc have come out of a single tree the entire creation has emerged out of DIVINITY. The ONE became MANY.

d) Registered letter: When you receive a registered letter, it becomes yours only when you sign it and take it; otherwise it is sent back to the sender of the letter. Similarly when you are abused by others, keep calm; do not reply or retort. (The abuser will cool down after some time.) Then the abuses will go back to the abuser.

e) God is a postman. His duty is only to deliver letters addressed to you. He is not concerned with the contents of the letters, be it good or bad. So also God is not responsible for your joys and sorrows. They are the results of your own actions.

f) The needle of the Mariner's compass always points to the North, wherever we may keep it. Similarly devotees must always turn their vision towards God in Joy or sorrow.

g) Current is Truth; Wire is Dharma; bulb is Peace; and Light is Love. All the four values are inter-dependent and integrated.

h) Car is very much like a human body. Its four wheels are four Purushaarthas; (the four goals of human life). The air which fills the tyres of the wheels is faith. Steering wheel is the Mind. Switch is the intellect. Brakes are sense control. The driver is the Jeeva. The owner who rides in the car is Aathma. According to His directions the vehicle should be run.

29. Swami uses certain analogies to explain the importance of keeping good company and avoiding bad company. Give three examples.

Coal in the proximity of fire is transformed into fire. It is divested of its blackness and becomes bright and red like fire. In the company of fire, a piece of iron shines like fire. In the company of moisture and water it becomes rusty, and dirty. Dust goes up higher and higher in the company of air; in the company of water it goes down lower and lower. So also the company of good and Godly elevates man and the company of wicked and vicious persons drags him down and makes him wicked and devoid of virtues.

30. Explain these: (a) Life is a limited company (b) In your heart there should be only one sofa (c) Mind is like a cat (d) Hurry, Worry, Curry.

a) Life is a limited company: Body is indispensible to live. To live happily and peacefully, one has to be aware of the capacity of every organ of the body and its functions.

Eyes are given to see but only to a limited extent. Human eyes are not designed to see light beyond a certain limit of brightness. For example we cannot see the Sun with our eyes without getting the eyes damaged. So also there is a limit for the human ear to hear the sounds. The same thing holds good to the other organs of the body like nose, skin, etc. Beyond a certain limit they cannot function properly; trying to exceed the limits amounts to misuse or abuse of organs, in which case there will be no joy but only sorrow. Similarly there is a limit set to one's pulse, heart-beat, blood pressure etc. If any of the functions exceed their limits or fall below the limits set, there is surely an ailment or disease. Hence the body or human life is said to be a limited company. Above all, these organs should not be used for seeing evil, hearing evil, talking evil and doing evil.

b) In one's heart there should be only one seat, not more than one and that should be for God.

c) The human mind is compared to a cat. A cat catches hold of its kitten with its mouth and carries it to a safe place in order to guard it from danger. The same cat uses its mouth to pounce upon a rat and catches it only to kill it. So also the mind could be a benefactor if it is engaged in good and Godly thoughts while it can bring about disaster if indulged in wicked thoughts.

d) Swami says that three principal causes for cardiac ailments are hurry, worry and curry. It is the hurry and worry that create mental tension and raise the blood pressure while the improper food upsets the blood circulation and cholestrol levels. The physicians not only prescribe medicines for cardiac ailments but insist on dietary control.

31. What is the translation that Swami has rendered for (a) Paropakaaraya Phunyaaya, papaaya para peedanam (b) Sahanavavathu sahanau bhunakthu saha veeryam karavavahai. Thejasvinaa vadheethamasthu maa vidh vishavaahai. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.

32. Explain with reference to context: (a) "Look here, you may give them food, but mind you, you will have to starve".
(b) "Hey! you are a wonderful boy, you will help thousands, you are a great power".
(c) "Let each one be given clothes he selects and what remains is good enough for me".
(d) "the lingams are all here".
(e) "I shall give you the feet of Sai Baba, my previous body".
(f) "Bhavaani gave a sword into the hands of the emperor Shivaaji commissioning him to venture forth and uphold Hindhuism. This Shivashakthi is giving these Pandiths the sword of courage commissioning them to revive Dharma in the world,"
(g) "Your neck shall wear a Japamaala, a rosary which I shall myself put around when you come to me after the sentence is over,"
(h) "Look at the mutual service that bird and beast are rendering to each other."
(i) 'Poor things!' They are sorry I kept them aside. Alright. I shall take them also to Ananthapur with me.'
(j) "This is my trade mark."

a) These words were spoken by Mother Eshvaramma. At the tender age of four Baba used to persuade His sisters to hand out grain or food to beggars. The elders were naturally irritated by the procession of beggars that come every day. In order to put an end to this act of charity of Baba, Mother Eeshvaramma caught hold of Sathya's hand and with a finger raised in warning said these words.

b) These words were spoken by Mehaboob Khan, a teacher who taught English in the school. He treated Sathya with a unique affection. He used to give Sathya often, some items of food or snacks specially prepared for him. He would ask Sathya to sit beside him and stroking his hair he said these words. One of the rare souls who recognised early the latent divinity in Sathya.

c) These words were spoken by Baba. Kondamaraju, the grandfather used to bring various types of dyed cloth to get shirts stitched for the festivals. The grandfather would ask Sathya to select a cloth that he liked best. In that context Sathya said these words.

d) When the site for construction of the first Mandhir had been selected, people were digging at a particular spot indicated by Baba. While Guni Venkanna was digging, a large number of stone bases of Shiva Lingams were found. There was not a single Shiva Linga in that place, and people were wondering why Shiva Lingas were not there. Then Baba told them, pointing a finger at his stomach: "the Lingams are all here". These words were spoken by Baba.

e) These words were spoken by Baba. At Madras where He had sanctified a temple at Guindy in His 22nd year, the devotee who had built the temple, washed and worshipped Baba's feet and prayed to him to give an impression of His feet on sandal paste, on a piece of silken cloth. Then Baba said, "I shall give the feet of Sai Baba, my previous body".

f) These words were spoken by Baba on the occajion of the inauguration of Vidhvan Maha Sabha on 20th October 1965 during Dassera, thereby declaring that his mission is to revive Vedic studies.

g) These words were addressed to Kalpagiri, a murderer and a criminal who escaped from the hands of police, and was wandering in the robes of a recluse, (a monk). He came to Prasaanthinilayam, after visiting all the pilgrim centres in the South. Then Baba gave him an interview and advised him to surrender to the police assuring him that he will not be hanged. Baba also gave him money and Vibhuthi prasaadh, and said these words.

h) When Baba visited Africa, He took a number of devotees, students and Africans to see the river Nile. There they found a host of crocodiles on the shore basking in the sun. There, Baba pointing out to the plover birds, hopping about the crocodile area, some birds even dared to perch inside the horrible teethy trap of the crocodiles, Baba said that the plovers have no fear of being swallowed by the crocodiles because they are eating off particles of flesh stuck in between the teeth, thereby easing them of their tooth-ache.

i) These words were spoken by Baba, when Mr. Hislop was also there in his room at Dharma Kshethra. Baba had ordered 100 saris to be brought in order to distribute them to women workers engaged in the Ananthapur college building work. Baba selected 96 saris and kept the remaining four on a table. An hour later when Baba returned. He found droplets of water inside the packets. Hislop was wondering how it could happen, then Baba said these words: "This is to prove that every artifact has a human feeling." He also narrated the episode of Govardhana Hill.

j) This sentence was spoken by Baba as an answer to the question put by Sri Eruch B. Fanibunda. Mr. Fanibunda noticed the letters T.P.S. on some medalions created by Baba. He was curious to know the meaning of the letters and asked Baba what they stand for. Swami said: "T means Thaara or Star of heaven, born in human form. The letters PS stand for Pathri Sai, Parthi Sai and Prema Sai. All the three Sais have the letters TPS as their trade mark."

33. Why does Baba address us as Bangaaru?

There is an inner significance attached to Baba, addressing us as "BANGAARUU". It indicates Baba's plan to transmute the unpurified gold ore that we are into pure shining gold. Just as raw gold ore is washed in certain chemical solutions, heated, melted, re-heated and beaten - finally shining with all its glitter, so too Baba heaps on us several tests in the form of troubles and problems only to chasten us, remove the gross and the dross in us and make us pure - in thought word and deed. All that we have to do is to patiently endure the tests with full faith in God.

34. Illustrate with a suitable incidents the following Namaavalis: (a) Sujnana maarga dharshakaaya namah (one who shows the path of attaining right knowledge) (b) Mukthi pradayahamah (One who enables and make it possible for his devotee to attain liberation).

a) There is the incident of the visit of a certain Dhigambara Swami who was instigated to challenge the Divine boy of Puttaparthi when Baba was young. Some people in Puttaparthi who did not like Baba invited the Dhigambara Swami, an aged man. a lame person, who had taken to the vow of silence and was completely nude to Puttaparthi. His disciples brought him in a palanquin to the Karanam's house. Baba came out with a big towel in his hand. He spoke to the aged swaami with love and compassion (yet firm) "Why this nude exhibition? Why this silence? Why should you make people carry you from place to place? All these indicate that you have taken to the Saadhu's garb only to eke out your living. Only those who are not worried about the needs of the body deserve to be called a Saadhu. First cover yourself with the towel and turn from now on to a true Saadhu. Go to a forest, and meditate in a cave. Do not fear. I shall see that you are fed and freed from the fear of animals." These comforting and encouraging words of Baba opened the eyes of the aged Saadhu. He was full of gratitude to Baba because Baba had revealed to him the way of attaining the state of a true Saadhu and the right knowledge.

b) 1) This description of Baba means one who grants or confers liberation from human bondage. Babas ways of conferring grace is unique and varied. It depends on the devotee's experiences and sadhana in this life and the past life.

Seshagiri Rao was a Pujari or priest in the Mandhir or Shrine at Prashaanthi Nilayam. He was a pious man having full faith in Baba. Once he had been ailing for months and was almost on death bed. He was ready to welcome death and to be released from the body. Just then Baba entered and sternly said "How can you leave without my issuing a ticket, go and attend to your duty". Of course Seshagiri obeyed the Divine command. Yet after some time once again he became ill and suffered a lot. His suffering was such that his kith and kin were very anxious to take him away from the Nilayam. But Baba once again came, fed him with his own hands and said to his relatives, "I only made him suffer, so that his Karma may be wiped out in this birth itself". Baba left the place saying "you can go now". Thus Seshagiri Rao was freed from the cycle of birth and death.

2) One girl hardly of six years replied to Baba's question "What do you want", "I desire to merge in you", Baba tried to dissuade her from such a pleading. Yet the girl insisted. Needless to say the girl's wish was fulfilled. It was Baba Himself who had induced her to request Him to grant her only desire - the only desire that man should pray for.

3) Once a blind boy was brought by his parents to Baba. They requested him to bless the boy with vision. Baba replied "I can grant vision but this boy has to take another birth as a blind boy to reap the consequence of his cruel act of blinding a boy in the previous life. Let him live like this and let him wipe out his Karma in this birth itself.

35. Complete this song of Baba:

'Love is my....
.... is my....
..... is my food.
My life is my message
.... is my nature
No.... for love
No.... for love
No.... No......'

1. What are the aims and objectives of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations?

The aims and objectives of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation are a) Self Purification, Self improvement and Self discovery, b) To establish the essential unity of all faiths and propagate through example the values of Truth, Righteous conduct Peace, Love, Non-violence and selfless service.

2. What are the three wings of the organisation?

The three wings of the organisation are Service, Spiritual and Educational which stand for work, worship and wisdom.

3. What is Balvikaas?

Balvikaas is the most important component of the Educational wing. It is meant to enable children to imbibe human values and practise them in day to day life in order to realize that the end of education is character and to make their subsequent life happy useful and fruitful both for themselves, for society and for the country.

4. What is the motto of Sevaa Dal?

Duty is God; Work is worship.

5. Explain the quotation, "Hands that serve are holier than the lips that pray".

It does not mean that prayer is inferior to service activity. It means that prayer alone is not enough; it should be followed by service. It actually means "Haath me Kaam, Dhil me Raam". (work in hand and God in heart).

6. What is Study Circle?

Study circle is very much like a round table conference. One subject is discussed from various points of view by the members. The spiritual aspirant can clarify his doubts in spiritual matters. However it is not a debate nor a complaining and explaining session but an inspiring one.

7. What is Sath Sang?

Sath sang can transform a sinner into a saint, because of the contact with the virtuous men. It is not just keeping company of good people but of good and sacred books and entertaining good thoughts.

8. What is the benefit of devotional group-singing?

"Wherever my glory is sung I am present there", says the Lord. Hence Bhajan (devotional group singing) is the most inspiring of spiritual practices. It is in fact melody or music therapy. One can easily forget oneself in devotional group singing and experience Divine vibrations. India has set this holy tradition as the most effective Saadhana to realize God.

9. What is Nagar Samkirtan?

Nagar Samkirtan: Devotees get up early in the morning, go about the streets singing the glory of God. This samkeerthana awakens people from sleep or Thamas when the sacred sound of God's name reaches their ears.

10. What is meditation?

"It is only in the depths of silence that one can hear the voice of God." If prayer is a communion with God, meditation is Union with God. In deep meditation, one who meditates, the process of meditation and the object of meditation become one. Meditation is the stage attained after concentration and contemplation. It confers peace.

11. How does Swami explain meditation?

Swami says that concentration is like identifying a rose flower among the leaves and thorns. Contemplation is like cutting the flower without touching the thorns. Meditation is offering the flower at the Lotus Feet of the Lord.

12. What is the role of festivals in spiritual practice?

Festivals are meant to inculcate the foremost values of life: Love of God, Fear of Sin and Morality in society, in the observance of each one of the festivals the Saadhana of work, worship and wisdom are practised.

13. What are the nine points of Code of Conduct?

14. What are the ten commandments given by Baba?

15. How can we try to establish integration at the national level and international level?

Since the factors of disintegration are based on different conceptions about God, Religion, Caste, Language and Work, integration can be made possible by following Baba's message:

1. What are the prophecies made on the advent of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba?

1. I. Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the Avathaar of Kali Yuga. To day both in this country and in many other countries, millions of people believe this. God men and men of vision have prophesied several thousand years ago about God coming down to the earth in this form. The advent of Sathya Sai marks the beginning of the golden age of spiritual renaissance of the world. The Avathaar's mission is to save mankind from the ruinous path of moral degradation, and to unite the entire humanity into a single family.

The prophecy of the Avathaar has got its source in Dwaapara Yuga. When Sage Maarkandeya visited Pandavas in their exile informed them that Lord Vishnu had declared that HE would take the human form in Kali Yuga having a body of dark colour and be born in southern India. The Avathaar would assume inconceivable human form and possess great energy, intelligence and powers to manifest all things, He thinks of. He would restore order and peace. The truth of this prophecy was proved to a devotee by Bhagavaan Baba, by showing in His face, all the nine previous Avathaars and the last Kalki Avathaar in the reflection of waters of Chithraavathi.

The fact that the Sai Avathaar is Kalki Avathaar, has again been confirmed by Swami at Prashaanthi nilayam to Mrs.Hilda Charlton of U.S.A., who could see during bhajan session, a figure of great beauty riding on a white horse, over Baba's head, while Swami was sitting in the chair.

II. Shuka Naadi Grantha, a palmleaf manuscript written about 5000 years ago, has the prophecy of Sai Avathaar. It contains many details about Sri Sathya Sai Baba's family, the year, month, Tithi or say, birth-star and Lagnam planetary conjunctions of Sai Baba's birth. Also about his unique personality, abilities including details of HIS previous Avathaar as Shirdi Sai and His mission.

Shuka Naadi also states that Sathya Sai will make people to overcome all problems and difficulties and realise their inner divinity. It says, He is all knowing, all pervading. The Naadi says that Sathya Sai's full powers will be known when Adharma or unrighteousness in the world grows to the fullest. It has also mentioned the age upto which the present human body of Sri Sathya Sai will remain.

III. The statement of Jesus is another prophecy. "Jesus said He who has sent me will come again, His name will be Truth, He will wear a red robe, He will be short with a crown of hair." This statement admirably refers to Bhagavaan Sri Sathya Sai.

IV. The Agasthya Naadi describes Baba as "Medical Master of great efficiency". Those who are familiar with the instant cures effected by Swami on patients suffering from incurable diseases, will see how these words about Swami in the Nadis are true. It also says this Avathaar shall found many educational institutions, produce literature of virtuous conduct and preach spirituality. It has predicted Svaami's leaving His house at an early age and His being the Shirdi Sai in the earlier Avathaar.

V. Braahma Naadi records that Sathya Sai Avathaar is a Shiva shakti Avathaar in Shaanthaalaya of Parthi, (Prashanti Nilayam) and He is the reincarnation of SRI Krishna. It also says that He is an Avathaar of Trinity.

VI. In Kalagnaana, the Yogi-Narayana Yathindra of Kaiwara, in Karnataka, prophesies the advent of Sai Avathaar. He says, the Avathaar will be of par excellence. He will be an expert in Brahma vidhya. He will be of pure spiritual knowledge and with a free and steadfast mind (vimala vignnaani). He also says that the Avathaar will arrange Upanayanams (sacred thread investitures), marriages of the poor, will build places of worship, people of all faiths will be benefited by him. (All these prophecies are fulfilled in Sri Sathya Sai's omnipresent Avathaar.)

VII. The Jewish astrologer Nastradamus long ago prophesied that a supreme leader of mankind will be born in South India. Thursday will be the day dear to him. The enormous powers of Saainaath will emerge victorious and prevail in the entire world.

VIII. The prophecy of prophet Mohammed in the "Ocean of Light", is: He will be a great leader, His hair will be profuse, His forehead will be large and concave. The nose will be small with a slight bump at the bridge, His front teeth spaced apart. He will have a mole on the cheek, His dress will be like a flame. He will wear dhothi. His face will be like the colour of copper, sometimes like gold, sometimes dark and sometime like moon. He will give you the things, you ask from God. He will go round among devotees. He will be kind to the whole world. Muslims will recognise him only nine years before His passing away. He will bring out things, out of his body, through His mouth (Shivalinga). All these features fit closely with Bhagavaan Sathya Sai.

IX. Pope John XXII prophesied that a small bare foot man of dark skin, in the red robe, will eventually take over the Vatican.

With the above prophecies on the Lord Saainaath's Avathaar, let us also remember His own declaration: "I have come:

i. In order to turn men away from the immorality and injustice, greed and envy, on to the royal road of spiritual practice or Sadhana, through loving gentleness,

ii. In order to demonstrate the value of Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love as instruments for individual and social progress.

iii. In order to infuse confidence and contentment in the hearts of the good people who are stricken by fear and anxiety."

2. What is the revelation made by Harold Baranowski of the University of Arizona. Who had developed the Science of Auronomy by means of his Kirlian photography?

2. Harold Baranowski studied the auras of many eminent people. But he found the aura emanating from Baba was something unbelievable - super human. Baranowski stayed in Brindhaavan and studied Baba's Aura by means of his Kirlian camera. He saw that at all times the aura of love pink in colour emanate from the body of Baba extending and expanding at least 300 feet distance almost blanketing a crowd of three thousand people. He says that Baba is Divinity indeed, the embodiment of Love in all its purity. Love is His form. Love is His message, and Mission. Love is God, God is love.

3. What has Baba said about "The Sai Trinity"

Swami explained the triple incarnation as follows:

"One has to understand the oneness of the three incarnations, Pathri Sai (Shirdi Sai), Parthi Sai (Sathya Sai) and Prema Sai. The powers and their tasks are the same though there might be some differences according to the environment and situation. Shirdi Sai laid the basis for secular and spiritual integration and His message is Duty or Work. The mission of this Avathaar is to make man realise the Divinity residing in everyone and enable them to help one and all. Thus work should become an act of worship. The third Avathaar will make man realise he himself is God - that is wisdom. The three Avathaars stand for Work, Worship and Wisdom."

4. How does Baba explain the significance of the three letters in His NAME SAI?

Baba once (13-8-78) declared :

i) Believe that the SOHAM principle meaning ( I am that) is implicit in SAI S stands for SAI A stands for and I stands for the sadhak

The name SAI reminds you Thathwamasi : SAI and I are one.

In another context Baba said:
ii) SAI means "See Always I" meaning 'self

iii) Recently (18-11-1995) Baba said that His Name Sai spells out the three fold transformation that He desires to bring about. S standing for spiritual transformation. A standing for Association or social transformation. I standing for individual transformation.

iv) Baba said in another context (18-11-1995) that the three letters in SAI stands for: S = Service Activity (Work) A = Adoration (Worship) I = Illumination (Wisdom)

Thus Sai stands for the triple form of spiritual sadhana, which He wants us all to practise.

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