108 SALUTATIONS TO SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

108 SALUTATIONS (1-10)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

1. SALUTATIONS TO ABODE OF PEACE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"PRASHANTI NILAYAM, The Supreme Abode of Peace. What a fine name, for the dwelling of the Lord! What cool breezes and quiet solitude's does that name invoke! The mountains that stand in a ring round the Nilayam look like hoary sages lost in contemplation. The broad sky inspires vast boundless musings; the Rocks on top of the hills invite the spiritual aspirant for meditation."

"Of course, when we dilate so enthusiastically upon the manifestations of the 'WILL', we should not fail to pay due homage to the personification of that 'WILL', Baba Himself. He is the Prashanti Nilayam, (Abode of Peace) wherever He is and wherever He is worshiped or remembered or called upon with Devotion."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 74, 92)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Abode of Peace' God.

2. SALUTATIONS TO ADORABLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Addressing a gathering at Bombay, Baba said, "I do not want you to think that I desire this name and this form to be publicized. I have not come to set afoot a new cult. Know that this Sai form is the form of all the various names that man has used, and uses now, to identify and adore the one divine."

"Well, My life is My message. You will be adhering to My messages if you so live that your lives become evidences of dispassion, courage, confidence, revealing eagerness to serve those who are in distress."

"Again, how fortunate you are that you can witness all the countries of the world paying homage to Bharath; that you can hear, even while this body is existing, adoration to the name of Sathya Sai reverberating from the nooks and corners of the world, even when this form is amidst you, with you, before you."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 10 & 13)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Adorable' God.

3. SALUTATIONS TO AFFECTIONATE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Once, during a visit to Brindavan (White Field) along with Dr Sandweiss, Elsie Cowan excitedly knocked at his room very early one morning saying, "I am feeling very close to Walter this morning." When Walter had cast off his mortal coil at Tustin, California, Baba had telegraphed to Elsie, 'Walter arrived here in good shape.' Elsie told Sandweiss, "I feel that Baba and Walter have paid me a special visit. I have been wide awake since six o'clock and full of energy." When both of them reached Prashanti Nilayam that evening, Baba called them in along with a few others and, in the midst of the conversation, He suddenly said to Elsie, "Walter and I paid you a visit this morning." "Yes, Yes!" said Elsie, "At six o'clock. I felt so filled." "No, five minutes to six!" He corrected her."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 86, 87)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Affectionate' God.

4. SALUTATIONS TO AGELESS GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Talking about an interview he had with Baba at Venkatagiri Town, Swami Satchidananda of Divine Life Society said, "I was surprised that He knew of an intimate secret experience of mine, which dated some years previous to His coming, and I made bold to put Him a question on that. He answered me with another question : "Am I born and do I die?"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I. 101)

An American once questioned Baba in the interview room, "How does Baba know of events that took place seven thousand years ago? From books or through other means?" Baba smiled, "I know what happened seventy thousand years ago! I can go forward and backward in time, and learn anything I wish. Time and space can impose no limitations on Me!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 163)

It is evident from the above declaration that He is ageless.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Ageless' God.

5. SALUTATIONS TO AMAZING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"One evening at Prashanti Nilayam, while talking about the kinship between man and other animals, and about the various theories of the origin of man, Baba said that the human animal is more related to the tree-dwelling ape than to the ground-dwelling varieties. He spoke of a tail-less, hair-less, tree-dwelling simian and, when the interested listener, who was a professor of anthropology could not quite grasp the type, he waved his hand, and (!) there was a tiny little model of the monkey He was referring to. The miniature, a gem of art and scientific accuracy, is now with him."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I. 135, 136)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Amazing' God.

6. SALUTATIONS TO ASSURING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"A naked swami, who had lost the use of both his legs and taken a vow of silence being carried by his disciples, once visited Puttaparthi. Baba gave the unclothed sage a big towel (!) and some advice, the like of which he would not have got anywhere else. He was ready to help, to assure, to guarantee! He said, patting the cripple on the back, "I know your difficulty. You are afraid you may not get food and shelter if you retire from the company of men, isn't it? Well, I assure you, anyone taking the name of the Lord, wherever he may be, will get his food. I shall see to that. You may be in the deepest of 'Himalayas' or the thickest forest - 'Dandakaranya', I shall give you food regularly there! But, if you have not that faith and that courage, you can meditate on him here itself; then don't wander about naked, and give all this bother to these people to carry you about from place to place."

"What a grand teaching that! If only people would grasp its meaning. That as the authentic voice; only an AVATAR could give that assurance!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 55)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Assuring' God.

7. SALUTATIONS TO ATTENTIVE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

During a short talk in the interview room, Baba once said, "Once, in this very room, Indra Devi of Tecate (Mexico) was sitting with others, listening to me. She had an American gentleman, whose wife was in the States, sitting next to her. I knew that her car had met with a serious accident while she was in it. Even while engaged in conversation with them, I saved her and gave all necessary assistance. Here, I told her husband not to worry and to go home as planned."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 163)

No matter what He is doing, Baba is always attentive to His devotee's urgent needs.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Attentive' God.

8. SALUTATIONS TO ATTRACTIVE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

While narrating the childhood of Baba, Sri Kasturi writes :

"The baby was charming beyond description, and no wonder! The child became the pet of the entire village of Puttaparthi and the villagers vied with each other in fondling it and feeding it and playing with it's lovely silken curls. It's charming smile attracted everyone."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 8, 9)

Even now, Baba has the same charm and splendid smile. He is like a magnet; He attracts people wherever He is.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Attractive' God.

9. SALUTATIONS TO BELOVED GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Dr John Hislop writes : "When he had his first interview with Bhagavan, this writer was seated in a small room with his wife and several others who were part of the interview group. All attention was on the slender, elegant, graceful form of Bhagavan - His deep luminous eyes, the sweet, warm smiles, and the charm. The critical and questioning mind stopped its restless activity. Anxiety about the world and it's problems faded away from the consciousness. Although Baba was speaking, one was surrounded by quietness. In that peaceful state of being, one's awareness deepened without effort. There was a perception that something alive, something unknown, was in one's heart. In a moment, the Realization came, that a current of Love was moving in this writer's dry, 'western' heart, and then it was very clear that the source of that Love was Bhagavan - nay, more - that the sweetness of Bhagavan Himself was there, with life, in the heart."

"How could Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a stranger never seen before, come into the heart of a mature man and bring about a change from within, a change from which there is no turning back? Surely, God is the only stranger who can do this."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 156, 157)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Beloved' God.

10. SALUTATIONS TO BENEVOLENT GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba at one time, announced that indigent parents from the villages around Prashanti Nilayam could celebrate the weddings of their children without incurring any expense. He would be the priest, parent and providence. The call was heard by parents of all castes and one hundred and thirty-four couples were registered at Prashanti Nilayam in a few days. Baba gifted a wedding sari each to all brides, much to their surprise at receiving this costly present. The grooms were also given silk clothes. In addition to some other gifts, Baba also gave each couple plates and cups for their new home. After the wedding, they all had a feast at Prashanti Nilayam with their kinfolks, oblivious of any differences of caste or economic or educational backgrounds. It was a heartening experience for all those who have the welfare of mankind at heart.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 51, 52)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Benevolent' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

Friday, August 24, 2007

108 SALUTATIONS (11-20)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

11. SALUTATIONS TO BLESSING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"In 1951, the Raja of Venkatagiri was surprised to receive a letter from Bangalore Naga Ratnamma, a well known singer. The letter ran as follows : 'My favorite deity, Sri Thygaraja, gave me 'Darshan' in my dream and commanded me to go to Venkatagiri, in order to be blessed by God who has come to this earth and who is soon reaching Venkatagiri, in order to be blessed by God who has come to this earth and who is soon reaching Venkatagiri. My Lord told me that God has assumed the name of Sri Sathya Sai. I shall come to Venkatagiri as soon as I hear from you." It was the festival of Lord Krishna's birthday, when she met Baba in answer to this command; Baba gave her the chance to sing for a full two hours in His presence. He also blessed her with an image of "RAMA", which He materialized for her; after the receipt of that image, she was in ecstatic unconsciousness for over 24 hours!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 166)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Blessing' God.

12. SALUTATIONS TO BLISSFUL GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba is unfathomable, unknowable. One cannot comprehend with human mind, what He is. One can only trust, believe and obey. 'Hilda Charlton writes : As I stood before Him, immersed in wonder, He said, "Everyone sees the world through glasses and their world is that which they see through them, worry glasses, hate glasses, glasses of envy, jealousy, greed. I wear only Love glasses. I cannot hate even if I want to, hate and anger are not part of Me; nor is disease possible for Me. I may hiss to warn and correct; but I never hate. I am Bliss and Bliss only. I am Wisdom, Anandam, Shanthi; that is My nature."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 123)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Blissful' God.

13. SALUTATIONS TO CARING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Once Baba was touring the delta area in Andra Pradesh. While driving on, Baba noticed two very old women tottering forward with the help of sticks held in their shaky hands. His Divine pity flowed towards them. He asked the car to stop near them. When the car pulled up, He inquired where they were going to. They said in quaking voices, 'To see Sai Baba.' Baba laughed and said, 'I am Sai Baba, don't you know!' They thought it was just to ridicule them and they walked forward. The others in the car got down and persuaded them to retrace the few steps they had taken, and have a good look. Baba created vibhuti for them, filled their hands with fruits, and told them to return home, how that they have seen Baba and got prasadam from Him."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 159, 160)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Caring' God.

14. SALUTATIONS TO CAUTIONING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba cautioned the students to avoid five delinquencies : 'The eye should not wander towards sights that inflame the senses, or arouse ideas conflicting with morality or the duty towards parents, elders and the culture of our country. Words that emanate from the mouth should not hurt the self-respect of others, or utter lies simply because they are pleasant; they should not smack of scandal or spite. The hand should not be raised in anger against anyone, nor should it be used to wreak vengeance, or steal another's property. The ears should not exalt in salacious stories, scandal or deleterious lilts. The mind should not be fowled by attachment to bad habits, bad impulses and plans to achieve the conspiracies of the senses.' Baba constantly warns them."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 63)

"Not only the students, but the spiritual aspirants are also cautioned by Baba : 'Be careful what you ask of Me for I grant - what - you seek!' Why stand under the heavenly wish fulfilling tree and ask for the gift of a paltry petty article?"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 236)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Cautioning' God.

15. SALUTATIONS TO COMMUNICATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"To a query about gesticulation with His hands, Baba said : 'During bhajans, when I am seated, you find Me gesticulating with My hands or fingers. Sometimes it appears as if I am writing in the air. People are curious to know why. At such times, I am communicating with people you cannot see. I am engaged in tasks that you cannot understand. I write replies to questions asked by someone far away, and help thousands of people in every part of the world.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 164)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Communicating' God.

16. SALUTATIONS TO COMPASSIONATE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Dr Sandweiss writes of another interesting instance of Baba's compassion : 'Lila and I were discussing Sai Baba, and she became intrigued. She read a book about Him and began to consider the possibility of meeting Him herself. She was then deeply in debt and there seemed to be no feasible way for her to get the money to go to India. Her husband, Homer, an inventor, had no steady income at that time and had not been able to sell an invention in over five years. Yet, as highly unrealistic as the trip did seem, she made plans to go and obtained her vaccination certificate and passport. Then some strange things began to happen. One day, feeling particularly depressed, she had an unusual dream in which Baba appeared, his eyes twinkling with fun. Soon afterwards, Homer hit upon an invention. After a swift and improbable chain of events, some people became interested in it and his financial position suddenly and quite unexpectedly improved - the first - time in years that this had happened. Lila now had enough money for the trip just a week before take-off, and being completely prepared, she found herself jubilantly boarding the plane with us.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 85)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Compassionate' God.

17. SALUTATIONS TO CONSOLING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"This is how Baba consoled a grief stricken Hindu wife : 'Mother, the news that your husband attained merger with the Divine came to you all of a sudden. It is quite natural that you were shocked at the accident which killed him, and feel miserably lonely and deserted. The daughters of Mother India revere their husbands as their all, and are ever concerned about their health, honor and peace of mind. Yet one should not forget that the body is a composite of diverse elements. It must disintegrate into those elements, however much one might guard it or lay claim over it. It is a feeble contraption, prone easily to be put out of action. A slip, a stumble, a hit, a sneeze, a little carelessness or a moment of recklessness, is enough to damage or destroy it. No one can avoid death, even if one manages to lengthen one's life by avoiding all these. Even Avathars take birth resolving to die some day. When birth occurs, death has to follow. To grieve over death, which is an inevitable consequence of birth, is not a sign of wisdom.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 134, 135)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Consoling' God.

18. SALUTATIONS TO CONTROLLING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"When a greedy forest fire advanced towards 'Chuchuma Ranch' on the US - Mexico border, where stood the Sai Yoga Institute of Indra Devi, her prayer to Baba turned the fire back by a sudden twist of wind when the flames had reached within yards of the Ranch. Sri K A Raja, Lt. Governor of Arunachal Pardesh, writes that a huge bamboo cluster within yards of his official residence at Tezpur caught fire and was exploding merrily immediately adjacent to the thatched huts of some Napalese workmen. Mrs Raja hastened to the scene and called aloud to Baba to soften the fury of the flames. The letter relates, 'The fire extinguished itself in a few seconds; not even a dozen fire engines could have done that job.' Similarly, Baba has many a time prevented rain by a mere gesture or oral command, when it had threatened to drench the thousands gathered to have his Darshan and listen to His discourse."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 100)

Baba has control over the elements of nature.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Controlling' God.

19. SALUTATIONS TO CONFERRING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"W G Steve, architect from Honolulu, narrates, 'The little interview room was crowded, and Baba launched into a spiritual discourse, with specific comments directed towards some but seemingly applicable to all. Then came the individual session during which he quickly cut into the secret depths of our being - our problems of health, previous meetings when He had contacted Irene is a dream (!) and, would you believe, the details of that dream, difficulties we encountered in our individual efforts in Sadhana, the personal desires of each of us, and our own, internal turmoils. Vibhuti was also manifested. All this as quickly, naturally and spontaneously delivered and conferred with love and understanding.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 165)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Conferring' God.

20. SALUTATIONS TO CONVINCING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba wrote a letter to a devotee who, due to desperate financial straits, had desired to flee the country and proceed to Malaysia, but later, planned to commit suicide when his ticket and travel documents were stolen at Madras : 'Pattabhi, Dear Devotee. Swami is writing to you. See, He is blessing you. Dear child, but what madness is this? What a letter you have written and left at home! It is foolish to be hasty. Think over your affairs calmly. Slow deliberation always reveals the true and beneficial. Think of millions of people the world over who are in conditions far worse than yours. Remember always you have Me to guard you and guide you. How many of them have this fortune? Consider that. Are you the only victim of poverty and indebtedness? The step you are contemplating cannot give you rest or peace. It is not right. It is not manly to run away from the Responsibility. Listen to Me! Go back to your place. Be bold and face the world with courage, for courage will set you free. It will conquer all obstacles. Give up your foolish plan to escape.' Baba convinced him and as a result, Mr Pattabhi went back, recovered self confidence and made a success of himself."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 128, 129)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Convincing' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

Thursday, August 23, 2007

108 SALUTATIONS (21-30)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

21. SALUTATIONS TO CORRECTING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba is not content merely by instilling faith in His devotees through miracles; He is a hard task master who will be satisfied with nothing less than cent per cent integrity and a sincere striving for the spiritual discipline. This explains why, of the very large number of men and women who are drawn to Him by the stories of His miracles and who get their first impressions of His Divinity confirmed by many subsequent miracles, fall away from Him, unable to cope up with the demands He makes, in character reform. Baba, who has come to illumine the paths of saints and spiritual seekers, has never minced matters, when it comes to correcting the faults of those around Him; in fact His grace is so over powering that it disregards the obstacles of age, scholarship, or length of association; He blesses everyone with His correction and evaluation."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 68, 69)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Correcting' God.

22. SALUTATIONS TO COSMIC GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba is ever conscious that He is the cosmic principle that has transformed itself into human form. He is the goal, the guide and the guardian whom every being seeks. He gives expression to this truth in His discourses and writings."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 99)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Cosmic' God.

23. SALUTATIONS TO DANCING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"As a young boy, Baba appeared on stage on a number of occassions and the audiences applauded His acting, singing and above all, His dance. For, there was a rhythm in His feet, a sense of time and tune, they had seldom seen; a litheness and a loveliness which made them feel 'He never touched the earth, He belonged to some ethereal region!' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 19)

"Baba once said 'I am the Dance Master; I am Nataraja, the Lord of Dance. You are all My pupils. I alone know the agony of teaching you, each step of the Dance.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 173)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Dancing' God.

24. SALUTATIONS TO DEMONSTRATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"A retired police officer quite accidentally came by two photograph portraits of Baba and had them framed and kept in his shrine. He and his wife were inspired and came to Prashanti Nilayam the next day; they were called in and blessed by Baba and when they left, Baba patted him on the shoulder and said, 'I shall come there,' How? When? .... he could not ask. Baba demonstrated to him His arrival and presence by showering vibhuti (Holy Ash) from His portraits. That was fulfillment enough. And, to demonstrate that He was all the manifestations of God known and unknown, it (Holy Ash) fell in continuous showers from the portraits of all manifestations, Rama, Shiva, Krishna and Christ."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 182)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Demonstrating' God.

25. SALUTATIONS TO DESIRELESS GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba explained the mystery of Avatharhood in a simple way when He said on His birthday festival, 1971 : 'Everyone of you is an Avatar. You are the Divine, encased like me in a human flesh and bone! Only, you are unaware of it! You have come into this prison of incarnation through the errors of many lives. But I have put on this mortal body of My own free will. You are bound to the body with the ropes of three Gunas. I am Free, untouched by them, for the Gunas are buy My playthings. I am not bound by them, I use them to bind you. You are moved this way and that way by desire. I have no desire except the one to make you desireless.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 309)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Desireless' God.

26. SALUTATIONS TO DESTROYER GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Arnold Schulman belittled the Sai phenomenon, in spite of a tour of India that included a visit to White Field, Brindavan, and a few minutes with Baba. That experience was enough for him to conclude - and be happy in the discovery - that mystics in India were clever exploiters, and their disciples ordinary 'psychopathic compulsives'. Baba has said, 'Those who stay or stray away, I shall beckon back.' Schulman was mysteriously 'possessed' by an idea - to write a book on Baba - which he tried his best to explain away, circumvent, rationalize and deny; still it would not leave him alone. He told himself that it was insane, impracticable and impossible, but it refused to loosen its hold on him, persisting on its emphasis. Three months later, when he was able to secure an interview, Baba told him, 'I asked you to write the book not because I wanted your book. The book is a publicity. I don't need publicity. I wanted you, you, you!' And He sent him back to America, wiser and happier, the veil of supercilious ignorance regarding mystics and their disciples removed (or rather destroyed) from his now clear vision."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 90)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Destroyer' God.

27. SALUTATIONS TO DISCIPLINED GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Once, Baba was on His way to Baroda. Twenty miles away, when His car drove alone, Baba heard Bhajan songs from about four thousand people sitting in an open space adjoining the road. The devotees of 'Ubel' had taken a vow that they would be engaged in continuous bhajan for twelve hours, and they prayed that Baba should come amidst them, of His own un-solicited grace. And, the vow yielded fruit. Baba was pleased at their exemplary discipline; He alighted from the car, moved among them and gave vibhuti to a few. He ascended the dais, sat for about twenty minutes and sang a few bhajans for them to repeat after Him; and then, He walked back to the car, unhampered by anyone trying to fall at His feet, and drove away."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 241, 242)

Baba insists on discipline and those who follow are duly rewarded by Him.

"Baba says, 'Discipline is the most essential equipment for man; the acquisition of discipline should be the primary goal of all endeavor. Life is rendered worth while and valid, only when it is lived out in disciplined ways."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 290, 291)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Disciplined' God.

28. SALUTATIONS TO DOUBT CLEARING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Seventy-six years old Swami Abhedananda of Sri Ramana Ashram, wrote to Sri Kasturi on 23rd December 1961, 'To be frank, I must admit that I have been hearing of Sri Sathya Sai Baba and about His miracles for a long time. But hear say does not convey a good opinion about him!' 'Although I have been living my life in this fashion for over twenty years now, I still have doubts and defects. May I request you to help me earn his grace and thus be liberated from these doubts and defects.' He came to Prashanti Nilayam and was immediately blessed with an interview."

"His letter to Sri Kasturi dated 5th February 1962, gives an account of the grace Baba conferred on him : 'I must thank you for being instrumental in exposing me to Baba's grace, which helped clear all my doubts. I was really astonished to find my old - age infirmities disappear and my weakened limbs regain strength merely by His touch. His clear exposition, with analysis and analogies, not only put an end to my long harbored doubts, but made me see TRUTH face to face in it's sublime nature.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 158)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Doubt Clearing' God.

29. SALUTATIONS TO DREAM DEVISING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba has declared very often that He wills the dream as a means of communication with the dreamer, in order to grant him courage, confidence and clarity of thoughts. He said, 'It is not a mere dream as is generally known. Do not think that these incidents you experienced in your dream are stretches of your imagination. I was giving answers thereby to all your doubts.' "

"On the command of Bhagavan Baba in a dream, a devotee once withdrew a petition he had filed in a civil court. His claim to some property was so strong that he fought his rival through all the labyrinths of law, in spite of all the tension involved and the massive sums of money he had to spend. The suit had possessed him and he was refusing to reconsider. But, Baba appeared in his dream and ordered him to give up his mislaid attachment. 'Properties are not PROPER-TIES,' said Baba with a strange emphasis."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 84, 85)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Dream Devising' God.

30. SALUTATIONS TO DUTY MINDED GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"I have My work to do; My devotees are calling me," Baba had declared when He was fourteen years of age.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 70)

"Doing the duty that has fallen to one's lot is the best way to make life worth while," Baba says. "Authority and influence have to emerge from the discharge of one's duties. Then only will they be effective. We must be convinced that rights are deserved only by the discharge of obligations. But today, the agitation is only for rights; there is no enthusiasm to earn rights by fulfilling obligations. Everyone must work with the consciousness that Duty is God and that Work is Worship. If devotion to duty is developed and all work is done as sincerely and as correctly as acts of worship, then each one can be happy, and society will be free from discontent and misery."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 286)

"Do your Duty with Discipline and Devotion" is Baba's prescription.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Duty Minded' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

108 SALUTATIONS (31-40)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

31. SALUTATIONS TO EASY GOING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"When Baba visits a home, however short the stay He leaves it a Heaven of peace and love. Often He goes alone into the house in order that 'the devotee may not be distracted by the need to attend to the companions!' He persuades the devotee not to indulge in pompous receptions and invest in exhibitionistic decorations, exotic garlands, expensive feasts, or quick publicity among kinsmen and friends. He comes as our nearest and dearest kinsman, arriving after a long absence, to bless, to heal, to enrich, to elevate, to alleviate, to console and correct, to confer courage and conviction and confirm the consummation of spiritual aspiration. He fondles the children, recognizes even slight gestures of homage, remembers the names of everyone in the family, relates incidents unknown or forgotten, promises relief and leaves everyone expressing gratefulness to Him."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 95)

When it comes to formalities, He is always easy going.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Easy Going' God.

32. SALUTATIONS TO EDUCATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba exhorts all to plan and establish a new educational system which will instill discipline, canalize passions, control emotions and equip youth, for mutual co-operation, compassion and comradeship, calm deliberation and constructive service. At present, education equips youth only with a begging bowl, entitling them to clamor for jobs! Baba said that He would establish a college in Bombay City if 'you prepare students worthy of entering it's portals! Teach them spiritual truths and the discipline that promotes their translation into daily life. Intellect without integrity is infructeous and injurious. Politics without principles, education without character, science without humanity and commerce without morality are positively poisonous.' "

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 200, 201)

"Bhagavan's message and master projects planned for its' realization, drew many educationalists, administrators, scientists, communication experts and psychologists to the colleges He has founded.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 67)

He is educator Par Excellence!

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Educating' God.

33. SALUTATIONS TO EFFULGENT GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"There are some very fortunate devotees of those days who cannot contain themselves with Joy, when they describe the miracles they were privileged to witness. He would ask them, in clear commanding voice from the top of the hill, standing by the side of the wish fulfilling tree (Kalpatharu), 'look up and see'; and lo they saw a wheel of circling light with Baba's head in the center, or a blinding set of light (jyothi) emanation from His forehead, 'from Shiva's third eye,' they say. Instances are related of a few devotees falling down in a swoon at the sight of these strange phenomena. Some have seen, looking up from the sands, a huge Shirdi Sai Baba, illuminated by a mysterious effulgence, some have seen Sathya Sai Baba's face inside the full circled moon, and miracles like a pillar of fire, etc."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 49)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Effulgent' God.

34. SALUTATIONS TO ENCOMPASSING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"On the uniqueness of Bhagavan's aura, Dr Frank G Baronowski of Arizona State University said, 'I was not brought up in any belief, though I am a Christian by birth and a Roman Catholic. The scientific community in my country finds it difficult to accept God. "It is not scientific," they assert. The aura that Swami projects is not that of man. The white was more than twice the size of any man's, the blue was practically limitless and then there were gold and silver bands beyond even these, far beyond the building, right up to the horizon! I am risking my reputation when I make this statement. Two days ago, right outside this hall, I looked into His eyes. They had a glow in them. It was clear to me that I had looked into the face of Divinity. If ever I can use the phrase, I have seen 'love walking on two feet', it is here."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 57)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Encompassing' God.

35. SALUTATIONS TO ENCOURAGING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba has written in 'Dharma Vahini' "No nation can be built strong and stable, except on the spiritual culture of its women. This generation is full of unrighteousness and injustice, malevolence and greed, falsehood and cruelty, because the mothers who brought it up were not vigilant enough or intelligent enough, or because they were not trusted enough by men, with the responsibility of chastening and fostering their children. What is past is past. To save at least the next generation, women have to be educated in a well-planned manner and endowed with the wisdom, fortitude and faith that can equip them for the great responsibility that rests upon them."

"Women are the bulwarks of spiritual culture. But as is evident from the attitude and behavior of educated women of today, they are fast succumbing to the flimsy attractions of froth and frippery, cheap and shoddy literature, and sensual films."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 53 & 55)

That's why Baba encourages women to be educated in a well planned manner.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Encouraging' God.

36. SALUTATIONS TO ENDURING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"When He was hardly a fourteen year old boy, Baba went through the terrors and endured the treatment given by an exorcist. It is a belief among some villagers that any illness is usually the result of some one's black magic or some evil spirit taking hold of the patient. So, someone gave information to the worried parents of Baba that there was a 'Sakthi worshipper', before whom no evil spirit dare wag its poison tail! The parents went through some difficulties but some how managed to reach the famous expert in devil craft and handed over the case."

"He was a gigantic figure, terrible to behold, with blood red eyes and untamed manners. He tried all his craft while the little Sathya was smiling at his failures. So, he attempted some desperate techniques which he dared not experiment even with strong adult patients! For example, he shaved the head of Baba and with a sharp instrument scored three 'X' marks on the scalp and with the scalp injured and bleeding, the witch doctor poured on the open wound the juice of limes, garlic and other acid fruits. He arranged to pour 108 pots of cold water every day in the morning for some days. He beat the boy on the joints with a heavy stick. Then he got furious and used his strongest weapon, a magic collyrium, a mixture of all the acidic abracadabra in the repertory of torture, applied to Sathya's eyes, which caused the head and face swollen beyond recognition."

"All the same Sathya never spoke a word, there was not even a tear; He sat through the pain without wilting. Baba said later, 'I wanted to make known that I am Divine Stuff, impervious to human suffering, pain or joy.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 35, 36)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Enduring' God.

37. SALUTATIONS TO ENERGIZING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba visited the foremost 'Saivite' Shrine of India, Varanasi (Benaras) and the foremost 'Vaishnava' Shrine, 'Badrinath' in 1961, in order to infuse spiritual power in those dynamos of grace. At Varanasi, He created a unique jewel to be placed on the idol of 'Viswesware' declaring that it has the mystic might to charge that symbol of the Lord with divine potency. At Badrinath, He drew from under the present 'Narayana' image, a 'Nethra Linga' which was the original nucleus and 'Energized' it with suitable rites and ceremonial ablutions."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 27)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Energizing' God.

38. SALUTATIONS TO EVALUATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"In a letter addressed to Sri Kasturi, Baba once wrote, 'You were a professor and so you can understand this easily. You must have evaluated the written answers of your students. You evaluate and assign them marks only after careful scrutiny of what they have written, don't you? I, too, measure and weigh the sincerity and steadiness of the Sadhana you have imposed on yourself.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 128)

"Baba told John Hislop, 'It is perfectly all right to ask all these questions and clear all your doubts. You are examining Swami and Swami is giving the answers. But, when all this is finished and the next time you come around, Swami will be the examiner and you will have to be ready with the right answers in your mind and heart.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 95)

He evaluates His Devotees

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Evaluating' God.

39. SALUTATIONS TO EVERY FORM OF GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba said, 'Since I move with you, eat like you, and talk to you, you are deluded into the belief that this is but a human phenomenon. Be warned against this mistake.'"

"This human form is one in which every divine entity, every divine principle, that is to say, all the names and forms ascribed by man to God, are manifest."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 11, 12)

As a proof, many devotees were vouchsafed with the various forms of God by Baba on various occasions.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is 'Every Form' of God.

40. SALUTATIONS TO EVERY NAME OF GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"During His discourse, Baba once said, 'You can call Me by any name, I will respond; for all names are Mine, or, rather, I have no particular name at all.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 84)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is 'Every Name' of God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

108 SALUTATIONS (41-50)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

41. SALUTATIONS TO EXEMPLARY GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Talking to students about His school days, Baba disclosed that, being the monitor of the class, He was burdened with duties and clothed in authority. 'I undertook to show the students and the monitors of other classes how a monitor should conduct himself. I reached school a few minutes earlier than the rest. I cleaned the black board before the class commenced and often had to clean even the benches and desks,' Baba explained. 'Rama sat at the feet of Vasishta and attended class with other boys. Krishna, too, had Sandeepa as His guru, while Sudhama and others were His classmates. When the formless, attributeless Divine Principle takes human form and appears among men, it has to conduct itself as an agreeable comparison and as an understandable example to contemporaries.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 4)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Exemplary' God.

42. SALUTATIONS TO EXPLAINING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Explaining why the Lord has to come in human form, Baba says, "The Lord has to come in human form to move among men, so that He can be listened to, contacted, loved, revered and obeyed. He has to speak the language of men and behave like human beings do. Otherwise He will be either neglected and negated or feared and avoided."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 157)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Explaining' God.

43. SALUTATIONS TO FABULOUS GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"The thing that blew my mind was what happened," Richard Bock related to an interviewer from the 'Movement', in September 1979, "when Indra Devi asked Baba if she could have some more of the 'Healing Ash', because she had given away all of her first supply to people. He said 'yes' and as I was watching, He moved His hand in a circle and then held up both hands, as if to receive some thing. Then an urn, about four inches high, appeared in mid-air and plopped into His hands. I saw this and said, "That's not sleight of hand, that's not up His sleeve, that's something else." He took off the top and spilled all the ash onto a piece of paper. Then He poured again, and another urnful of ash poured out, so that in total, He had poured out double the amount of ash that the urn could possibly hold. Next, He put half of it back in the urn and distributed to the people nearby. What was left He put in a little handkerchief bag and gave it to Indra Devi. He touched it and said, 'Now this will be inexhaustible supply and you won' run out of it.' Well, she had it for ten years now and it is still flowing. And she has given it to thousands of people. After that experience with Baba, whether or not God exists is no longer a question in my mind!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 96)

That's Fabulous!

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Fabulous' God.

44. SALUTATIONS TO FAITH INFUSING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Howard Murphet of the Theosophical Society writes, 'I was with a cynic when I came to India. I know that I was a skeptic, but, not an incurable one. My approach has always been the cautious scientific one. I needed to see and touch for myself, in order to believe. Through a strange network of circumstances, (which I can only say was due to the grace of Baba), I met Sai Baba! Baba was kind to me. I saw and touched miraculous incredible things; I have established to the satisfaction of my critical self, that miracles do take place. Actions speak louder than words. The word is powerful but, in the 'Word Made Flesh', we see it's power dramatically. Then it becomes a strong buttress for our tottering Faith."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 250)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Faith Infusing' God.

45. SALUTATIONS TO FASCINATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"On a certain tour, Baba was once returning to Jamnagar from Dwaraka. The party accompanying Baba was deprived of Lord Krishna's Darshan at Dwarka Temple because of some confusion and congestion. Baba was full of sympathy for them, as they were returning and Sri Kasturi writes, 'Suddenly, He said, "Oh! The sea is here!" and the cars were stopped. We came upon a wide patch of sandy shore. Baba walked along the watery edge gleefully and laughed at others when they were drenched with saline stuff. He picked shells and sat on the sands at last."

"He heaped the soft sand to the height of a cubit in front of him, putting us all into a state of expectancy. He flattened the heap and drew on it with His finger a three-slanted line. He drew a rough circle on top; He added a small triangle over it. He drew a short line across the circle."

"It is ready!" He said and digging His hands deep into the pile, He drew forth a bright golden image of Lord Krishna playing on the flute about 15 inches high, the very acme of the goldsmith's art and devoted craftsmanship. You did not get Darshan of Krishna in the temple; have it now, He invited us."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 203)

It was really fascinating.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Encouraging' God.

46. SALUTATIONS TO FEAR REMOVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba's primary purpose is to awaken man from the sleep of ignorance and point out to him his real nature, the imperishable, immortal Divine self. 'You are invincible Atma, unaffected by the ups and downs of life; the shadow which you cast while trudging along the Road falls on dirt and dust, bush and briar, stone and sand, but, you are not worried at all, for you walk unscratched; so, too, as the Atma substance, you have no reason to be worried over the fate of its shadow, the body.' Baba drives this point home by many an example and infuses unshakable courage."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 186, 187)

"Replying to a letter written by Sri Kasturi, Baba once wrote, 'your daughter was very upset the other night over her husband's health. His illness had taken a turn for the worse. I was there when your daughter wrote Me a letter about his condition. She posted it next morning to the Puttaparthi address. It has not reached Me yet, but I knew of its contents even while it was being written. When Swami's grace is available in plenty, why fear?'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 128)

"Why fear when I am here?" Baba assures His Devotees.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Fear Removing' God.

47. SALUTATIONS TO FACILITATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Come with empty hands," Baba says. "Throw away all the things that you hold in the grasp of your hand; cast away the toys with which you have been playing the game of gaining and losing, gathering and scattering. Baba delights in giving. He does not relish being adored or admired because our praise does not add anything to His glory, and criticism cannot minus it either. Therefore, He even advises us to be indifferent to praise and blame. He delights in filling empty hands with lasting sweetness; empty hearts with lasting joy; empty lives with salutary substance; the empty reeds with His melodious breath."

"Each gift prepares us afresh to receive yet another, for nothing is given without significance - it is to facilitate us to go forward in our search for truth."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 242, 243)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Facilitating' God.

48. SALUTATIONS TO FESTIVE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba's grace is boundless and universal. So, people from all lands and followers of all creeds gather at His feet. Several sects and communities who have special festivals to commemorate their regional deities, also discard age-old boundaries and conventions and gather in thousands wherever Baba may happen to be, feeling such celebration to be truly meaningful in His presence."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 58)

In Bhagavan's presence, everyday is a Festive Day!

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Festive' God.

49. SALUTATIONS TO FORGIVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba was the cynosure of all eyes at Bukkapatnam. Though He seldom listened to the teachers and rarely opened His textbooks, He was hailed as the brightest pupil of His class. This drew upon Him the envious looks of the others who trudged along with Him every day from Puttaparthi. They often over powered Him physically while on the Chitravathi sands and dragged Him along, ruffling His shirt and knickers and damaging them out of shape. When the Chitravathi was flowing, they dowsed Him with gusto. Baba said that He neither protested nor complained, but bore it all as the pardonable sport of ignorant youngsters. He refused to name any of the tormentors, nor did He bear any ill-will against them."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 3)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Forgiving' God.

50. SALUTATIONS TO FRAGRANT GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"In a letter to Sri Kasturi, the Cowans of Orange County, CA USA wrote : 'In our home, we have a small room filled with the pictures of our great Lord Sathya Sai Baba. It is here we meditate before retiring. Many times, people of the Sai family drop in, and pray. Each night, we watch for vibhuti to manifest. But so far, none has appeared. It was about a month ago, some friends who are devotees of Sathya Sai Baba, came to meditate with us in His room. I wish to say that the fragrance of this room has a beautiful odor, as if hundreds of flowers were giving forth their blooms to us. This is one of the gifts the great Swami bestows on us. Our friends were amazed at the sweetness of the room.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 310, 311)

An out of world fragrance indicates the presence of Baba.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Fragrant' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

 

108 SALUTATIONS (51-60)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

51. SALUTATIONS TO FRIENDLY GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Sri B Ramanand, while describing a wedding that was celebrated at Prashanti Nilayam during which he had witnessed Baba for the first time, writes, 'In five minutes, we felt He was one of us; He talked to us as if He had known us intimately all along. This intense humanness, this wonderful camaraderie He has for all persons around Him, this super-abundance of good humor, joy, love and affection to all, made a powerful impact on me.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 89)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Friendly' God.

52. SALUTATIONS TO FUN LOVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba was always a sprightly, joyous boy, full of practical jokes and fun. Once, when about twenty devotees were proceeding along the road to Dharmavaram, Baba and a group of young men were walking behind the bullock carts in the moonlight. Suddenly, He moved a few yards away, unnoticed by the rest, and hastened to the cart that was leading the rest. There, He appeared as a girl of sixteen; she appealed to the persons inside the cart for a lift, by telling a sad story, and the ladies took pity on the girl and took her in. After about a mile or so, news came from the tail end of the line that Baba was missing and all the carts were brought to a halt; they started searching for Him. Somehow, they found Him and the journey was resumed; but another person was now found missing! Where was the 'girl', where could 'she' have gone? The search resulted in nothing. Finally, they asked Baba Himself, for they knew that He would certainly know the whereabouts of every missing person. And, of course, He knew! The 'girl' was there before them, in the form of Baba Himself, the great actor."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 47)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Fun Loving' God.

53. SALUTATIONS TO GENEROUS GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Every miracle of Baba is a gift of grace. It may be a pinch of sacred ash, a piece of candy, a continuous flow of scented oil or nectarine honey. It may be given to you while you are awake, asleep or dreaming. The more you want, the more He gives; the more He gives, the more you grow."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 242)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Generous' God.

54. SALUTATIONS TO GENTLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"During the East African tour, Baba's presence at Kampala was utilized by many for receiving His blessings and counsel."

"During the group meetings, a variety of questions were asked. 'If there is a God, why cannot we see Him?' Baba replied, 'Why should you seek to SEE God? You are God. There is nothing that is not HE. Experience Him that way.' 'How can we be happy always?' Baba said, 'Derive joy from within. You are the Atma, the eternal spring of Ananda (Bliss). Love all; no one will then hate you or envy you."

"During His stay, He addressed gatherings of Lions and Rotarians, Doctors, Businessmen and members and workers of Service Organizations. He replied with His natural gentleness, sweetness, and sense of humor, even intimate personal questions from those who participated."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 32, 33)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Gentle' God.

55. SALUTATIONS TO GRACEFUL GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"He (Baba) has a sweet and loving smile, like that of an innocent and affectionate child. His eyes are dark brown, soft and melting, and sparkle with intelligence and humor. His voice is sweet and tender, like that of a Mother, sometimes gay with laughter and lilting wit like that of a companion, at other times stern and serious like the voice of a Father. The movement of His body, as He sits, arises and walks, is graceful, flowing and extremely light. His hands are expressive. There is a faint perfume in the air.:

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg117 )

Sri Kasturi thus described the gracefulness of Bhagavan Baba.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Graceful' God.

56. SALUTATIONS TO GRATIFYING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Sri Kasturi writes : "Years ago, Baba stayed for a few days at Horsley Hills, which is 3,800 ft above sea level. Twice a day, He would take us to some beauty spot where we could peacefully learn spiritual matters."

"Our little camp, situated as it was amid the hills, was in-accessible except by jeep. So our food and water for domestic purposes had to be hauled up by the villagers from the small hamlets at the foot of the hills. a buffalo at the bungalow helped to transport water many times a day in skin bags slung across it's back! This quiet rustic beauty was enjoyed by all, and we were privileged to share it with Baba. Then came the day when we had to break the camp and return. Baba proposed that we walk down together. He suggested that we try and see who could get down the fastest! Baba interrupted saying, 'Wait, I will be back in a minute,' and went back to the garden. Some of us quietly followed Him to find Him taking leave of the buffalo! He patted it affectionately saying, 'You have done Me good service Bangaroo,' a term of affection meaning gold. Baba is thankful to all who serve Him."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 279, 280)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Gratifying' God.

57. SALUTATIONS TO HAPPY GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba says, 'There are some who write and speak as if they have known Me. I can only say this : They can never know Me, for, to know Me, one has to rise to this stature. Again, listen to this : My activities and movements will not be altered whoever may pass whatever opinion on them. People may remark disparagingly on My dress, on My gown of colored fabric, on My hair - but, I am not affected at all." "I am ever happy, full of joy. I smile at those who deride Me and invent lies about Me; I smile at those who praise Me." Baba is always Happy.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 210)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the ''Happy God.

58. SALUTATIONS TO HEALING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Here, ten thousand miles away," writes Hilda Charlton from New York, "A person who has never met Baba in the physical form is healed and is feeling Baba's presence always with her!" Baba is no stranger; He is in everyone. Mary Simpson was unsuccessfully operated twice for blood clots in the lungs and for congested, enlarged breathing tubes. The Doctor told her daughter when she was taken home, "I am sorry your Mother is leaving the hospital worse than when she entered." But, she had the luck to know of Baba and to get a picture of Baba, as well as some Vibhuti. When she prayed, Baba appeared before her and filled her with a vibrant thrill of well being. Within a few days, the Doctor said, "I cannot believe this; this improvement is a miracle."

"The rustling of Baba's silken gown, the touch of His smooth soft hair, the faint foot-fall of His light lovely feet, the silver voice, the flash of lightning from those eyes, the sacred fragrance of His presence - these have served to indicate to many that Baba has come to heal and hearten."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 102, 103, 104)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Healing' God.

59. SALUTATIONS TO HEART DWELLING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"During the discourse that Baba gave, prior to hoisting the flag on His birthday, Baba spoke about devotees who develop and demonstrate fanaticism when speaking about Him or adoring Him. 'I have no wish to draw people towards Me, away from the worship of My other names and forms. You guess from what you call the MIRACLES, that I am attracting and trying to attach you to Me and Me alone. They are not designed to demonstrate or publicize; they are spontaneous and confirmatory proofs of the Divine, which can change the sky to earth and earth to sky. I am yours whether you like Me or not; you are Mine, even if you hate Me and keep away from Me. Therefore, what need is there for impressing and attracting, for exhibiting My love or compassion, to win your adoration? I am in you. You are in Me. There is no distance or distinction." He declared, "you have come to your own home. This is your home, not Mine! My house is your heart!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 147, 148)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Heart Dwelling' God.

60. SALUTATIONS TO HELPING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba's love for His Devotees is expressed in many ways. Once at Dharmakshetra, there was a gathering of teachers from the Bal Vikas classes in Sathyadeep. After the meeting commenced, the Bhajan Party from below the hill was invited to join. Hurrying up the steep incline many were short of breath, but one elderly lady seemed to suffer a great deal. Baba made her sit down, leaning against the wall, under a fan. The He disappeared for a moment, only to reappear with a glass of water which He gave the lady to drink."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 277, 278)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Helping' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

Sunday, August 19, 2007

108 SALUTATIONS (61-70)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

61. SALUTATIONS TO HOLY ASH GIVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba has often spoken of the significance of the Vibhuthi (Holy Ash). He says it is a constant reminder of the evanescence of the body, for ultimately, it is reduced, by cremation, to a potful of ash!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 119, 120)

"At Shirdi, Baba gave the Divine Panacea, the Holy Ash, contacted by His Divine hand, from the 'Dhuni' or fire that was always lit and active in the Masjid room where He spent His days. Now, the 'Dhuni' is in His own hand, ever ready to yield the precious gift; He has only to will and wave. Nor is it essential that the Holy Ash or 'Vibhuthi' as it is called in Sanskrit, should be so created. Baba wills, but does not wave His hand. Yet, the Holy Ash flows, as the stream of grace, where He wills, when He wills. This is the greatest of contemporary miracles.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 180)

Baba give Vibhuthi for a variety of purposes.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Holy Ash Giving' God.

62. SALUTATIONS TO HOPE GIVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"My Mission is to grant you courage and joy, to drive away weakness and fear," He has said on many occasions, "Do not condemn yourselves as sinners; sin is a misnomer for what are really Errors. I shall pardon all your errors, provided you repent sincerely and resolve not to follow evil again!" "Pray to the Lord to give you the strength to over come the habits which had enticed you when you were ignorant. Thus, He kindles the flame of Hope and Health in every heart."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 187)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Hope Giving' God.

63. SALUTATIONS TO HUMANITARIAN GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"While the 52nd birthday celebrations of Bhagavan Baba were in progress, it became known that a terrific cyclone had hit the Andhra Coast. A tidal wave about 20 ft high had swept over the coast and spent itself about thirty to forty miles inland. The devastation inflicted by both wind and water, was enormous. Tens of thousands died, caught by the waves. A large number of cattle lost their lives, and coconut groves over several square miles were toppled. Scores of villages were washed off the face of the earth. The few who survived were confronted by disease, despair and decimation. Baba directed the service volunteers from Andhra Pradesh to rush to the area, even while the festival was progressing at the Prashanti Nilayam." A great deal of help was rendered to the victims by Bhagavan.

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 52, 53)

Baba wrote in a letter to a member of the governing body of a college, "There is nothing I desire for myself; I strive, I work, only for ensuring and developing the welfare of humanity."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 232)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Humanitarian' God.

64. SALUTATIONS TO HUMBLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

The news chronicle reported an incident which symbolizes the Divine Love : "Baba's car was moving at quite a speed near India Gate, when He suddenly asked the driver to stop. Everyone was surprised at this. Baba got down, crossed the road, went to an old man in tattered clothes sitting on the pavement and, bending down before him, materialized a ring which He himself put on one of his fingers and then returned happy to the car."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 26)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Humble' God.

65. SALUTATIONS TO ILLUMINATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba reveals the aspect of His reality very often in His discourses, in more or less direct declarations, like flashes of lightning, they bring to our consciousness, suddenly and with a thrill, the splendor of His personality. 'Do not try to measure Me, you will only fail; I am neither man or woman, old or young, I am all these;' 'Do not praise me; I like you to approach Me without fear, as of right. You do not extol your father. You ask for something from him, as of right, is it not?' 'I did not come uninvited to this world; saints and sages, good men of all creeds and climes called out and entreated; so I have come.' 'You may be seeing Me today for the first time, but, you are all old acquaintances for Me; I know you through and through;' 'If I were just like anyone of you, you would not have cared at all. That is why I have taken up this human form and I show you now and then, these miracles;' 'My task is the spiritual regeneration of humanity through truth and love,' 'I am happiest when a person carrying a heavy load of misery comes to Me, for , he is most in need of what I have;' 'All are Mine, through the atmic relationship. So, those who worship Me are not nearer to Me than others who do not.' These are some of the illuminating flashes that Baba has vouchsafed in His discourses."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 185, 186)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Illuminating' God.

66. SALUTATIONS TO INCREDIBLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"For Sivarathri, Bhagavan quietly motored to the Bandipur Forest on the border of Karnataka State. Baba, and the few who were chosen by Him, drove in a van into the forest. As Bhagavan alighted from the van, He stood and broke a stalk of jungle grass, about an inch and half long, and another about half it's length, and bound them in the middle with a bit of stalk skin. It became a cross. He was about to drop it into Hislop's open palm but desisted. 'No! I must give you another,' He said. Holding the grass cross before His face, He blew upon it. It became a wooden cross of the same dimensions, with a small silver icon of Jesus on it. 'This is the wooden cross on which Jesus was crucified; this is the correct image of Jesus on the cross,' He said, and gave it to Hislop who was kneeling and in tears. (Later, Hislop got the wood examined and was informed that it was at least twenty centuries old. He had the silver icon photographed and the photographs enlarged. He was surprised to note that there were marks of sweat on the brow and signs of froth at the corners of the mouth. It had all the signs of pain heroically borne.)"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 32)

That's Incredible!

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Incredible' God.

67. SALUTATIONS TO INDISPENSABLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Once Baba administered a mild admonition to some devotees who had expected a continuous flow of 'Plums and Roses'. Then He enlightened them. 'Do you delight when I allow you to be near Me? The next moment I might cause you the sorrow of separation. Do you feel that Sai takes delight in your tears? Just then, I might make you laugh till your sides ache, and continue to grant you joy, again and again. Do you feel a sense of elevation when I praise you a little? That very moment I may prick the bubble of your pride by means of ridicule. Do you feel secure when I tell you not to fear? The next moment I might inflict pain and appear indifferent when you pray for relief. I do not allow you to go back, nor do I allow you to go forward! I madden your mind and smother your ego. Find out how anyone can move away from this charming Sai, the embodiment of love and light. Find out the reason why He is indispensable, in spite of this dual role.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 104)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Indispensable' God.

68. SALUTATIONS TO INSCRUTABLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"One day, at her home in Tecate, Indra Devi looked up at the picture of Baba and prayed, 'Bhagavan, please take me to Puttaparthi for your birthday.' Two days later, a young man who had come to the Sai Center at Tecate, phoned, "Mataji, could you go to India tomorrow if Warner Bros pay your trip? They want Baba's permission to make a documentary film on His life.' She was met at the airport by someone from the company. When she came to Prashanti Nilayam with the proposal, I felt elated at the prospect of the film. She was very much there during the birthday festival and she carried Baba's response to the request back home. But when she contacted Warner Bros who had arranged and paid for her trip, 'No one knew me there,' she writes, 'nor about the trip, nor the film, nor Bhagavan Baba. The red faced executive told me that he would investigate and let me know. Years have passed and I am still waiting to hear what he has to tell me from his inquiry!'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 92)

No one knows Baba's ways.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Inscrutable' God.

69. SALUTATIONS TO INSPIRING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba insists on all-round progress of the boys, so that they may grow into helpmates of the down-hearted and distressed. In recent years, He has Himself written some musical plays, selected the boys for the cast, assigned the parts, supervised the rehearsals, decided the stage fittings and curtains and trained them to sing the many songs He composed, and designed the costumes for every role in every scene, and on the days when the plays were presented, Baba spent hours in the green room directing the make-up and encouraging each little boy by a soft pat with His loving palm when they moved out towards the floodlit-stage, where tens of thousands greeted them with loud applause. For about a month, the boys had the unique good fortune of being inspired by Him."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 44, 45)

Baba said, "I am ever engaged in some activity or other for your benefit. There is none to question Me if I do not act; there is nothing I would lose. Although I have no urge to be active, yet you see Me ever active! The reason is, I must be doing something all the time in order to inspire and instruct you or to set an example for you."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 71)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the ''Inspiring God.

70. SALUTATIONS TO IRRESISTIBLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Gandikota V Subbarao of the U.N.O. writes, "Meeting Him is an intensely personal, emotional and uplifting experience. The temptation to glorify Him, to wax lyrical over the spiritual greatness and magnificence of Sathya Sai Baba is difficult to resist."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 75)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Irrestible' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

Saturday, August 18, 2007

108 SALUTATIONS (71-80)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

71. SALUTATIONS TO LIBERATING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba says, "You are imprisoned in your ego. Though you should try to liberate yourselves from this bondage quickly and safely, most of you do not seek from Me the key to this liberation. You ask Me for trash and tinsel, petty little cures and gains. Very few desire to get from Me the thing I have come to give - Liberation itself."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 80)

Baba told Charles Penn, "To all I give My light and love, and help each forward towards liberation."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 21)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Liberating' God.

72. SALUTATIONS TO LIFE SAVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Baba once saved a great yogi from a watery grave. "'The yogi was seated on a rock by the side of the river, lost in 'dhyana' (meditation). The current, meanwhile, was fast eating into the mud underneath the rock and, the rock tilted over, throwing him into the flood.' 'It was all like a dream for him at first,' said Baba. Later, when he found that he was being carried away by the river water, he began to pray to the Lord. Baba heard his call; He slowly led the floating 'corpse' to the bank, a few miles above 'Sivananda Nagar' where there was a homestead available to give hime warmth and comfort!"

"He was saved after a thirty mile float! He was no devotee of Baba, nor had he ever seen Him. All the same his life was saved."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 113, 114)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Life Saving' God.

73. SALUTATIONS TO LOTUS FEET GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Here is an account of how the ocean had washed and worshiped the Lotus Feet of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. "In the evening when the sky had turned into a carnival of pink and purple, and the clouds had decorated themselves with golden fringes, Baba proceeded to the sea shore and with His devotees around Him, played with the waves of the seas that mingle there at 'Kanya Kumari'! Each succeeding wave seemed to be more eager than previous ones to touch His Lotus Feet, and to offer Him it's own special homage. Suddenly, as if aware of the yearning of the seas, Baba stood facing the waters and said to those beside Him, 'See! The ocean is welcoming Me, with a garland.'"

"At the very moment, one could discern a stately wave a few yards away, advancing majestically towards the shore and soon, it swept Baba's feet and receded. Imagine the wonder and amazement of everyone when they have found, round Baba's Lotus Feet a bewitching pearl garland, swaying and swinging with every surge of the waters around them! One hundred and eight translucent pearls, each a priceless gem, strung on a thread of gold! Oh! How charming Baba looked!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 191, 192)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Lotus Feet' God.

74. SALUTATIONS TO LOVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"In the Yoga Journal from Holland, Sharon Warren writes, "The following morning, when I went to attend Bhajans, I happened to have an aisle seat. Baba strolled to the women's side that day, and as He passed, He stopped beside me. He then gestured with His hand with that special majesty which always mean a Divine materialization, and then there was the sacred ash pouring from His finger tips and into my palms. He said, 'Vibhuthi... eat.' It was like a dream. My heart was so full of love and devotion and gratitude that it just overflowed. I felt I could not hold anymore. I was aware that He knew my need, and that was so comforting. I have been blessed to experience love throughout my life from many different relationships, but nothing could compare with the purity of the love I experienced with this transpired. It transcended any human relationship I had ever known.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 77)

Baba said, "My acts are evidences of Divine Sakthi (power), signs and signals of Divinity. I am granting thing out of Prema (love); My Prema (love) will never diminish; I have no desire of any kind. I talk of love, I guide along the path of love, I am Love."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 140)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Loving' God.

75. SALUTATIONS TO MANIFESTED GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Baba called together the devotees who were to accompany Him to 'Badri' and reminded them of the rare privilege that they had won, "You have the good luck of proceeding with the 'Manifested Form' to the un-manifested form, whereas usually, people pray to the un-manifested form, immanent in the idol, to manifest itself before their eye, so that they might win the fruit of their 'Sadhana'. He declared."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 221)

Baba manifests wherever His name is remembered or sung with devotion.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Manifested' God.

76. SALUTATIONS TO MANY-FACETED GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Another fact that sets us wondering regarding Baba, is the many-facetedness of His personality. One sees in Him a paragon upon which each one models himself. The manager of a mighty manufacturing concern sees in Him an ideal organizer and manager. A doctor sees in Him the perfect master of diagnostic and medical skill. An engineer or architect finds in Him the master who humbles their pride with a blue pencil and fills their heads with ideas and designs, anyone of which can make a fortune for them through its beauty and practicability. A musician finds in Baba the primal source of melody and harmony."

As the 'Gita' says, "The Divine is the best, the mightiest, the most charming, the wisest, the highest and the most intricate being; an incarnation of the Divine bears this stamp on its personality."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 314, 315)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Many-Faceted' God.

77. SALUTATIONS TO MARVELOUS GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"One evening, Baba casually went up to a half opened window of His room, and seeing an electric table lamp that was on the sill, He got an idea whose exact nature no one present knew. They only say Him wave His hand, and when they rushed near to see what was emanating, He showed them His palm, where rested a color film portrait of Himself! Evidently, He willed for something transparent to paste on that lamp shade. He held it up to the light and some around Him remarked that the background of the picture could have been a little more prominent; some said that the hair was a little awry; one collected enough courage to remark that the face was not freshly shaven! But, He silenced all such comments by declaring, "My dear fellows, you just see, it is My photo, just as I am now, with this dress, this background, this half opened window, this door, this door curtain, this switch." And as we watched, the wonder grew! Yes! It was as if in the millionth of a second, someone had come with a camera, focused and snapped, and taken a color film photograph, and developed it and washed it and dried it and delivered into the hands of Baba! That hand is indeed Marvelous, Divine!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 135)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Marvelous' God.

78. SALUTATIONS TO MIRACLE GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Once the Devotees at Madras made elaborate preparations for Sri Krishna's birthday. Baba came and sat on a special seat near the shrine, temporarily erected at one end of the hall, during the worship; then, just before 'Arathi' (waving flame), He got up, and everyone rose with Him. He lifted both His hands well above His head and the expectant throng of Devotees was watching His hands, for they had not seen Him in that pose, during any festival before. It appeared rather strange; out before they could even wonder, He held in His hands, a huge glass bowl shimmering in the electric light, beautifully designed, with a bird spreading its wings executed at both ends. The bowl seemed rather heavy, and Baba placed it on the platform where the shrine was. 'Special Prasadam from Brindavan,' He announced! There were in that bowl forty-three different varieties sweets!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 128)

Wow! What a miracle!

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Miracle' God.

79. SALUTATIONS TO MOTHER CHOOSING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

During an interview given to a newspaper editor, Baba said, "I resolved upon My birth. I 'decided' who should be My mother. Mere humans can choose only who is to be wife or husband; the mother was chosen by the Sai in the Rama incarnation and in the Krishna incarnation. Then too, the task for which the birth was decided upon was - conferring Love on all, and through that Love, foster Righteous Living."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 140)

From this it is evident that only God can choose His mother.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Mother Choosing' God.

80. SALUTATIONS TO MOTHER OF MOTHERS' GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Swami Karunyananda is the founder president of a service organization that has set up a home for the destitute and the disabled. One morning, an unknown sympathizer brought a young woman with a two year old daughter to 'Ashram' and swami got her admitted into hospital and took the child to the hostel entrusting it's care to the women inmates. Her condition improved rapidly for she was due to give birth to a child within a week. There was a portrait of Baba hung on the wall of the hospital in which He appears more like a mother. One evening, those in charge of the clinic went to see a movie, and when they returned, they found that the woman had already given birth to a son. The baby was washed and wrapped in white towels and kept in a cradle. The mother had received due attention. They were filled with surprise and on asking her who had taken care of her, she replied, pointing to Baba's picture, 'She had taken care of me at the critical moment. She has gone to attend to another patient and will be back soon.' That is the measure of Bhagavan's motherly Love."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 215, 216)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Mother of Mothers' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

108 SALUTATIONS (81-90)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

81. SALUTATIONS TO NATURE LOVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"While travelling by car and seeking some place to take breakfast or lunch, Baba spots out locations which are gems of beauty. 'Beauty is Bliss' is a statement often on His lips."

"Baba encourages everyone to appreciate the beauties of nature; He directs attention to the charm of a flower, the colorful magnificence of a sunrise or sunset, the grim grandeur of an overcast sky, the timorous twinkling of the stars in the midnight sky or the moving jasmine - garland of cranes in flight."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 96, 116)

Baba has an eye for Nature's Beauty.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Nature Loving' God.

82. SALUTATIONS TO NECTAR GIVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Some Devotees who desired to have a quiet morning with Baba whisked Him away (after first getting His gracious consent, of course) to a place near Bangalore. There, after a discussion on Karma, Rebirth, and the Nature of Soul, Baba 'took' (materialized) a small silver vessel full of nectar and distributed it to the eight or ten people who were present. He then gave the container to a person who was shortly to leave for England, with his wife; when He noticed the disappointment on the faces of the couple, at getting only an empty vessel. He got back the vessel and gave it back, without even the wave of hand! And the vessel was again full of the precious nectar!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 136)

Baba giving the Divine nectar to His Devotees through various other means is not un-common.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Nectar Giving' God.

83. SALUTATIONS TO NEVER HURTING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Baba never hurts anyone. In the past, some people tried to slander and scandalize Him through newspapers. Speaking to them, Baba said, "They are like moths whose nature is to bore into fabrics. They cannot but do anything else; they have an inner impulse, which they have not been taught to overcome. They slander all who come in their purview." "So, be happy that they are deriving joy through such means, why should you deny them that avenue for the expression of their nature? I am glad that they are able to feed their wives and children with the income which the stink sheets give them. Why should you be miserable, when they are eating their meal?"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 212)

"Help Ever, Hurt Never" Baba advises.

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Never Hurting' God.

84. SALUTATIONS TO NEVER RESTING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba is the most tireless worker at Prashanti Nilayam, planning, designing, arranging and supervising every little act that conduces to the proper functioning of its various world-wide activities. Nothing is done, there or in other places where organizations function in His Name, without His express permission and blessings. At the Nilayam, He is busy day and night, teaching, training, consoling, comforting and counseling, the hundreds who come to Him for light and guidance. Even while on tour, He uses what little time He can spare for the amelioration of the suffering and the distress of the poor and the down hearted."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 206)

He never rests. Truly, the Avathar has no rest! But, as Baba says, "Had I needed rest, I wouldn't have incarnated."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 67)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Never Resting' God.

85. SALUTATIONS TO OMNIPOTENT GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Denise Eversole wrote in the daily paper, Movement, in California, about her visit to a Sathya Sai Baba Shrine in south India : "Vibhuthi pours from Baba's photographs, and two small, enamel medallions of Baba exude a jasmine scented sweet nectar called 'Amrutha'. A large jar daily fills up with this syrup, and the photographs are scraped clear. Both these manifestations of Baba's grace are given freely to all visitors. We received large containers of each, and watched carefully as more, and yet more, Vibhuthi and Amrutha formed and poured from the Blessed objects... Nearby the Kaveri River, a short walk from the temple leads one to a pair of stone feet. From the feet oozes an oil with the most enchanting fragrance. This we wiped on our scarves and kerchiefs and whatever else we had, and watched a more oil oozed up from between the toes. It was my fourth visit to this shrine, but I never tire of witnessing these evidences of Bhagavan's omnipotence."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg )

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Omnipotent' God.

86. SALUTATIONS TO OMNIPRESENT GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Muriel Engle writes from San Diego on the Pacific Coast : "Ruth has a teaching job in Mexico. She is busy going back and forth. She attends Bhajans on Thursdays at Santa Barbara, but is still a skeptic. Her health problem have been tormenting her since long. She has bouts of extreme pain for several days at a stretch. One evening, in her little room, she suffered from terrible pain, and in her desperate agony, she was crying out, 'Oh, is there someone to help me? Anyone? Why am I suffering this? What shall I do? Oh, help!'

'Suddenly, she felt a gentle touch on her arm. She stopped shouting and, as she turned, there stood Baba beside her bed. 'Don't shout so,' He said, 'I am always here.' Then, He disappeared. And along with Him the pain, too, had gone. This is another instance of His Omnipresence."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 92, 93)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Omnipresent' God.

87. SALUTATIONS TO OMNISCIENT GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Baba told Arnold Schulman, 'I know your past, I know your future. So I know why you suffer and how you can escape suffering and when you finally will. I know everything that has happened to everybody in the past, everything that is happening now and everything that will happen in future. I know why the person has to suffer in this life and what will happen to him the next time he is born because of that suffering this time."

"In His speech to an enormous crowd at the Patel Stadium in Bombay, He said, "I know all that happens to all because I am in everyone. This current is in every bulb. I illumine every consciousness."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 305)

There is nothing that Baba doesn't know.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Omniscient' God.

88. SALUTATIONS TO OPEN-TO-INQUIRY GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Dr Karlis Osis, a Director of Research from the prestigious American Society for Psychical Research and his friend and fellow worker, Dr E Haroldson, visited India three times, met many people who had a long association with Baba, journeyed thousands of miles on fact-finding assignments, and stayed at Prashanti Nilayam for months together - seeing, hearing, studying, observing and experiencing. Dr Osis writes, 'The abundance of the phenomena encountered and the magnitude of the miraculous effect, were a complete surprise to seasoned para-psychologists like us... I have been an active researcher for twenty-five years and have traveled widely, but no where have I found phenomena which point as clearly and forcibly to spiritual reality as the daily miracles of Baba."

Baba says, "come, examine and experience. Those who wish to secure pearls must dive deep to get them. It is useless to dabble in shallow waters and claim that the sea holds no treasures."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 171, 172)

Baba is open to inquiry to those who approach Him with an open mind to understand and appreciate the Avatar.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Open-to-Inquiry' God.

89. SALUTATIONS TO POWERFUL GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"On Christmas day, 1970, Baba declared at Bombay, "There are many who cannot bear or tolerate the splendor that emanates from Me; the Divinity expressed in and through every act of Mine. These people label them as acts of mesmerism, miracles or feats of magic! Their vocabulary is small. Their experience is limited. They hope by these words to cast a slur. Le Me tell you this : Mine is no mesmerism, miracle or magic! Mine is genuine Divine Power. Small minds and limited intellects cannot comprehend them. They have no strength or stamina to grasp the magnificence and majesty. God can do anything. He has all power in the palm of His hand. My body, like all other bodies, is a temporary habitation; but My power is eternal, all-pervasive, ever dominant."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 136)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Powerful' God.

90. SALUTATIONS TO PROBLEM SOLVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Many brought their problems before Baba and prayed for solutions. They returned happy and restful, for their problems received Baba's clear analysis, deep diagnosis, intimate unraveling and effective remedy."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 108)

"Baba is the indweller in each human heart. He gathers people around Him day after day and deals with them in Love and Compassion. Physical illness, mental work, psychic disorder, economic want, family discord, intellectual deficiency, professional set-backs; He handles each problem as it comes with supreme and unfailing skill."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 319)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Problem Solving' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

Copyright reserved by the Author

108 SALUTATIONS (91-108)

108 SALUTATIONS TO

BHAGAVAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

91. SALUTATIONS TO PROMISE KEEPING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"In the presence of Bhagavan Baba, Indra Devi once described how Baba had fulfilled a boon which He had granted years earlier to her mother : 'I shall give you Divine nectar when you leave this world,' He had said. She left for her heavenly abode one noon, at Prashanti Nilayam, when Baba was at Brindavan. But a few minutes before she died, nectar gushed from the idol of Shirdi Sai Baba kept hear her bed, from the toe of the right foot that was placed over the left knee. She noticed it and held her cupped palm to receive the gift. Kasturi helped her sit up and drink the nectar, about two ounces of fragrance and sweetness. Then she lay down again and passed into Sai. Baba listened to her narrative and then said, 'Yes, I keep My word to those who are steady in their faith. I also give Darshan when death calls on those who have dedicated their lives to Me.'"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 151, 152)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Promise Keeping' God.

92. SALUTATIONS TO PROTECTING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Not very long ago, I was almost dead," wrote Marie to her teacher, Hilda Charlton at New York. "Dead, both internally and externally, for I was deeply involved with drugs, mostly heroin. When I managed to give this up, I developed hepatitis, and was sick with this disease for quite a while. Then Marc Schles sent me some of Baba's Holy Ash from India which helped to cure me. I was sunk in despair, without a home and seemingly without a future. But thanks to Sai Baba, I am really happy now, for I am living at home with my mother and making plans to return to college. Three of my dear friends who were involved with drugs have stopped them too. I shudder to think how close to death I was through over doses of drugs. I would like to express my gratitude to Baba."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 222, 223)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Protecting' God.

93. SALUTATIONS TO REMINDING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Jnani Greene writes, "Baba has instructed me, 'No more doctors, no more medicine; let go, give up; let me be your doctor!' And He has proven His efficiency and readiness many times since. One day, my foot was broken, caught in a narrow ditch in the dark. I was carried to my room in excruciating pain. Two hours passed and, suddenly, sensation went dead; I attended Bhajans at Whitefield, sitting in a perambulator! Then, I noticed absent-mindedly that my foot seemed rather warm; I put it on the ground; it was entirely repaired! The repercussions on me was even more dramatic. For, it gradually dawned on me to turn to Him for every form of pain, for all sense of limitation, mental and physical alike; I discovered that His recipe worked equally well for everything. I am a slow student, and I still forget to ask! But, in His boundless compassion, He keeps reminding me."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 106, 107)

Truly, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Reminding' God.

94. SALUTATIONS TO REVEALING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Baba revealed of Himself and His mission upon earth, to the delegates of the First World Conference of Sathya Sai Organizations held at Dharmakshetra Bombay, thus : "I have come to inscribe a golden chapter in the history of humanity, where in falsehood will fail, truth will triumph, and virtue will reign, character will confer power then, not knowledge or inventive skill, nor wealth. Wisdom will be enthroned in the councils of nations. Do not be misled."

"It is not My purpose to strike men dumb by the display of miraculous might! I have come to confer the boon of blessedness, the benediction of bliss, as the reward for genuine spiritual endeavor, and to lead mankind into liberty, light and love."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 22)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Revealing' God.

95. SALUTATIONS TO RESHAPING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Sri Rasgotra, former India's envoy to France, writes, "A man who goes in for a meeting with Baba, seldom comes out the same. He emerges from the encounter, exalted and radiant, as if Baba had striped him of his motley cloak of many patches and fitted him out in Love's pure raiment, for a fresh journey towards a bright, new destination."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 160)

"Whenever any person came into His presence, even in those days, Baba immediately took him in hand and, 'by advice, suggestions, satire, sarcasm or even downright reprimand, He slowly shaped him into a humble, silent, pious, but, withal, efficient, enthusiastic limb of society. That is the alchemy of His touch."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 58)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Reshaping' God.

96. SALUTATIONS TO RESPONDING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

One day, while answering some questions posed to Him in the interview room by some devotees, He said, "You are surprised that I can be in two bodies at the same time, or in a thousand different places... when I give you a ring or any other object materialized by Me, it instantly informs Me whenever you are in imminent danger. I can reach you immediately and render all necessary help. However, even if you have nothing on you that has been given by Me, if you have only genuine Love and Devotion for Me, My response will still be immediate. I respond to every sincere prayer, no matter what form or name of God you may adore or worship."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 163)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Responding' God.

97. SALUTATIONS TO RESURRECTING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

The Cowans returned to USA in April 1972. At a gathering of 'friends and fellow seekers,' Elsie said, "We have come from India, my husband and I, brimful of the most astounding news that can happen to any one. It is so fantastic that many of you may doubt it, because hardly any of us realize the great importance and the tremendous power of this great high God, who not only walks the earth but cares for all the planes from earth to eternity. Walter died at Madras. Sai Baba resurrected him."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 22)

Sai Baba resurrected not only Mr Cowan but many others on different occasions.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Resurrection' God.

98. SALUTATIONS TO REWARDING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"A Devotee had come from Madras, bringing with her a jewel in the shape of OM, which she had got made; she now held it before Baba for being blessed by His Divine touch. Baba looked at it and laughing, joked about the OM being more like a curved monkey's tail! Evidently He did not like the artist's handiwork. He asked the Devotee whether He would correct the OM or whether she preferred a new jewel, with His own portrait incorporated in it. She chose the new jewel, naturally. Keeping the OM jewel in His closed fist, He blew on it and when He opened His palm, we found to our astonishment that the OM had disappeared and in its place, there had come into being an exquisitely designed gold locket, with a large portrait of Baba in natural colors encircled by diamonds and with a pendant of lovely pearls. 'This is a reward for twenty-three years of un-remitting prayer,' Baba says, while placing the jewel in her hand."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 120)

Baba knows when and where to reward His Devotees.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Rewarding' God.

99. SALUTATIONS TO SERVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

During Bhagavan's East African Tour, Sri Kasturi was involved in a car accident and was saved by Baba. Soon after that, he, along with the other occupants of the car, rushed to Pra Safari Lodge and had Darshan of Baba. Sri Kasturi writes, "Baba came forward to pat us and pet us, while listening to our description of the accident of which He already knew. Oh! It was worth all the panic and pandemonium inside the car! No mortal mother could have been more compassionate towards her injured child. The curative Vibhuthi was ready. He applied it Himself on the cuts. He used His own handkerchief as a bandage of my eye. He created ointments and tablets, out of nowhere. He pressed or rubbed the spots of pain gently; He drew us near with affectionate consolation. He gave us the strength to dismiss the picture from our minds. I thanked 'Nakkasongola' and the speedophile who drove our car, for this unique gift of Divine tenderness."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 37, 38)

Baba is the supreme exemplar of service through Love.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Serving' God.

100. SALUTATIONS TO SHARING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"A large crowd gathered at Dharmaksetra (Bombay) once, with a hope of getting Baba's Darshan at around ten that morning. But, Baba stayed longer at Poona from where He was expected to come. So, Dharmaksetra was called, over the phone, and informed that Baba would be arriving only at about 1:00PM and the huge gathering there was advised to go home, since they had been waiting for Baba from ten in the morning; and Baba did not want them to stay hungry."

"But, no one stirred! At ten minutes past one, Baba came. His car stopped at the gate, and Baba walked slowly up the grueling hot pathway rising sharply when it neared the dais! Baba was barefooted! Yes! Baba's feet, soft and tender, sweet, silken and small, were moving over the hot sandstrewn pathways between the squatting thousands! He could have driven on straight to the apartment on the first floor of Sathyadeep at Dharmaksetra! But He demonstrated the truth that he who seeks to lead, must share the travail with those whom He calls to follow!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 195, 196)

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Sharing' God.

101. SALUTATIONS TO SHIRDI GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Sathya Sai Baba invariably refers to 'My previous body' when He speaks about Shirdi Baba; He often describes to His devotees how He, 'in His previous body' dealt with people and situations, what illustrations He gave to amplify a certain point, what questions were asked," etc. "He recognizes all devotees of Shirdi Baba as His own; in fact He tells them, "I have known you since ten years" or "Though this is the first time you see this body, I have seen you twenty years ago, when you came to Shirdi."

"Baba was a young boy when He made the declaration of His identity; so, many a doubter posed the question, "How can we believe that you are He?" A person who had such doubts was quited by a novel demonstration by the young Baba of Puttaparthi. The cynic was flabbergasted by the ocular proof that was vouchsafed to Him. Baba, it seems, stretched out His palms in front of the critic, and asked him to look at the opened palms. And lo, he could see on one palm, a resplendent portrait of Shirdi Sai Baba and on the other palm, an equally effulgent portrait of Sri Sathya Sai Baba Himself."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part I, pg 143, 148)

On various occasions, Baba directly or indirectly indicated to His devotees that He is Shirdi Baba come again.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is 'Shirdi' God.

102. SALUTATIONS TO SIMPLE LIVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba declares that His life is His message. So, being in His presence, observing His compassion, His simplicity, His earnestness, His insight, His Love, is itself a valuable opportunity for the aspirant to gain fullness and freedom."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part III, pg 119)

Baba said, "Now science and technology have advanced tremendously, but man has no peace of mind. Tranquilizers and sleeping pills have become a must for everyone. A simple and regulated life which includes natural foods and plenty of physical exercise, is the best remedy for the complicated diseases that haunt man in all lands. I do a lot of work as you must have seen, and take a small quantity of simple food. I do not take milk, yogurt, butter or fruit juice. This body will continue to be in good health until its ninety-fourth year."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 164)

Baba Himself lives a very simple life and He recommends a simple living and high thinking to His devotees.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Simple Living' God.

103. SALUTATIONS TO SINGING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"When Baba was emerging from teenage, He sang a song while at the temple on the outskirts of the village where He was born. He has been, since childhood, a stream of sweetness, singing His way into the hearts of all around Him. Since He was not of this earth, but very concerned to transform the earth into heaven, His songs then, as now, were designed as a call to man to benefit from the mystery, the majesty, and the magnificence of His incarnation."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, p ii )

To a Bhajan gathering at Prashanti Nilayam, Baba said, "your life is a song on the glory of God. Sing it from your soul, sing it aloud, sing it in chorus, so that the atmosphere polluted by greed, hatred, and envy can be purified by the Holy Vibrations."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 40)

Bhagavan loves to sing. His discourses are marked with songs.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Singing' God.

104. SALUTATIONS TO SOURCE AND SUSTENANCE

GOD : SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba's speech with even casual visitors becomes a pat on the back, often a prick to the bubble, a stab to the ego, a candle in the darkness, a stick to the lame, a path in the wilderness, a rose amidst the thorns, a beacon that beckons to nobility and divinity. A smile from Him is cherished treasure that one would nourish in the silence of the shrine. The stories and similes with which He illumines philosophical conundrums are valued possessions forever. People clamor for the chance to touch His feet, to have their children named, or initiated into spiritual disciplines according to scriptural rules by Him, to receive some token of His grace grants color to the painter, notes to the composer, voice to the singer, strength to the athlete, endurance to the climber, and bliss to the Yogi!"

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part II, pg 198)

He is the source and sustenance to all.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Source and Sustenance' God.

105. SALUTATIONS TO STUDENT LOVING GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"In 1974, Baba sent this letter to the college students at Brindavan, Whitefield, "and see in Me, yourself, for I see Myself in you all. You are My life, My breath, My soul. You are all My forms, all. When I love you, I love Myself; when you love yourselves, you love Me. I have separated Myself from Myself, so that I may love Myself. My beloved ones, you are My own self."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 130, 131)

"Students are My hope, the source of My delight. They are what I live by," says Bhagavan Baba."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 66)

That is the extent of His love for students; otherwise why would He say, "students are My property."

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Student Loving' God.

106. SALUTATIONS TO SUM OF ALL GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"On the gateway tower, on the inner gateway arch and on the altar inside the prayer hall, one can see the raised symbol of one's own religion amidst the equally revered symbols of other faiths. No questions is asked and no brow raised by anyone who belongs to the Sai Family, when you declare yourself to be Hindu or a Buddhist, a Parsi, a Christian, a Muslim or even an atheist. The only question asked and the only things with which Baba is concerned is how earnest, how distressed, how compassionate, how self-controlled you are."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 72)

"The message of Bhagavan is that the truly religious will neither deny the validity of any particular religion or group of religions, nor declare that salvation can be secured through one path only. So He encourages all those who have Faith to march forward along their chosen paths, whichever religion they may follow or be born in, since all spiritual paths lead to the same goal."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 58)

All faiths are facets of the same truth, which can be spelled as LOVE, and Baba is the embodiment of that Love. Therefore, Baba is the sum and substance of all Religions.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Sum of All' God.

107. SALUTATIONS TO THE ALMIGHTY GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

"Baba is ever conscious that He is the cosmic principle that has transformed itself into human form. He is the goal, the guide and the guardian whom every being seeks. He gives expression to this truth in His discourses and writings."

"On one occasion, He sang a poem which had spontaneously blossomed on His lips : "Why does the sun rise and set everyday without delay or disruption? Why do the stars that light the sky to the delight of all eyes, hide their splendorous faces when the day dawns, and never even slyly peer to tell us where they are? Why does air always be around, giving us the breath of life? Why do these streams and rivers roar, murmur, gurgle and gossip over rock, pebble and sand, as they meander along towards the parent sea? How is it that the billions that constitute mankind, though they are caskets treasuring images of the same entity, remain distant from each other in appearance, achievement, aspiration and attitude? This is the answer. Know that I am the one who has ordained that these be such and shall behave so."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 99, 100)

What else needs to be said to prove that He is the Almighty God?

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the 'Almighty' God.

108. SALUTATIONS TO THE ONE AND ONLY GOD :

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Announcing the mission for which He has assumed this human form, Baba made a declaration which nobody since the days of Lord Krishna had the good fortune to listen to : "There was no one to know who I am till I created the world, at My pleasure, with one word. Immediately, earth and sky were formed, mountains rose up, rivers started flowing, sun, moon and stars sprang out of nowhere to prove My existence. Came all forms of life - plants, insects, beasts, birds and men. Various powers were bestowed upon them under My orders. The first place was granted to man, and my knowledge was placed in man's mind."

(Sathya Sai Speaks Part IV, pg 98)

Is not this declaration enough?

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is 'The One and Only' God.

(From : Sai Veda, The Word of God by Ramadas Gollapudi)

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