Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Avatar of Divine Love, continues to inspire millions worldwide even after leaving his physical body on 24 April 2011. His teachings transcend religious boundaries, offering universal principles for personal transformation, service to humanity, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. They encourage cultivating love, selfless service, and embodying values that lead to peace, harmony, and self-realization.Fundamental Teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings center on two guiding maxims that embody his message:
1. Love All, Serve All
2. Help Ever, Hurt Never
These principles form the foundation of his teachings, offering a clear framework for living a life rooted in divine love and compassion. Let us explore these ideals and the profound insights they impart.
‘Divine Love’ – The Essence of Life
Sri Sathya Sai Baba said that love is the highest and most powerful force in the universe. According to him, love is not merely an emotion but the very essence of divinity that resides within every human being. He taught that true love is selfless and unconditional, free from any expectations or desires. Swami often said, “Love is My form, truth is My breath, bliss is My food, and I am ever present in all hearts.” He urged people to love everyone, regardless of their background, race, religion, or social status.
‘Love’, according to Him, is the foundation for human existence, removing hatred, jealousy, and ego, healing wounds, bridging divides, and fostering unity, making it the greatest transformative force.
‘Selfless Service’ – The Key to Practice Love
He emphasized that selfless service is the most effective way to grow spiritually. He often said, “Manava Seva is Madhava Seva’ (Service to mankind is service to God). He said that true service is selfless, without expecting anything in return, and a manifestation of divine love within. His followers are encouraged to perform service in all aspects of life—helping the poor, the sick, the elderly, and those in need. He highlighted that service extends beyond physical acts; it also encompasses emotional and mental support. A kind word, a helping hand, or even a compassionate thought can bring immense joy and healing to others.

‘Universal Spirituality’ – The Unity of All Religions
The unification of all faiths was one of Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s most significant teachings. He never advocated for the superiority of any religion over another. He said that all religions ultimately lead to the same truth and that each path offers a unique approach to understanding the divine. He said,
“There is only one religion, the religion of love.
There is only one caste, the caste of humanity.
There is only one language, the language of the heart.
There is one God, and He is Omnipresent.”
‘Uplifting Human Character’ – Cultivation of Human Values
Sri Sathya Sai Baba emphasized the importance of nurturing human values, which he believed were fundamental for both personal development and societal harmony. The five core human values that he consistently taught are:
• Sathya (Truth)
•Dharma (Right conduct/Righteousness)
•Shanti (Peace)
•Prema (Love)
•Ahimsa (Non-violence)
These values form the basis of moral and ethical living. The fundamental approach is that true spirituality is not just about rituals or practices but about how we live our daily lives. Being truthful, acting with integrity, promoting peace, showing love to others, and practicing non-violence in thoughts, words, and actions are the keys to leading a life that aligns with the divine.

‘Anyatha Sharanam Nasti’ – The Power of Faith and Devotion
Faith and devotion were at the heart of His teachings. He encouraged his followers to cultivate steadfast faith in God and confidence in themselves, yet surrender all the outcomes to the Divine will. He often spoke of the transformative power of devotion (Bhakti) as a pathway to spiritual liberation. He said, “When you call upon God with true faith, He will certainly respond. Surrender yourself fully to Him, and He will take care of you.”

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong connection with the divine through prayer, meditation, and spiritual practices, while also teaching that true devotion involves living a life of love, service, and humility, reflecting divine qualities in our daily actions.

‘Nurturing Inner Transformation’ – Transforming the Mind and Spirit
Sri Sathya Sai Baba emphasized the importance of mastering the mind, as it is the root cause of suffering. He taught that the mind must be disciplined and trained to focus on the divine. Through practices such as self-reflection, meditation, and cultivating positive thoughts, one can develop a mindset that overcomes negative tendencies like greed, anger, and jealousy. Spiritual growth is a gradual process that requires constant effort, introspection, and a willingness to change.
‘Living by His Wisdom’ – Embodying His Teachings
Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings are timeless and universal, offering a simple yet powerful path for living a life of love, peace, and service, encouraging individuals to rise above the ego, embrace selfless service, and live in harmony with creation.

Through his life and teachings, He demonstrated that the path to spiritual fulfilment lies not in seeking external rewards but in nurturing love, compassion, and wisdom within. He left behind a legacy of divine love that continues to inspire and guide people around the world. By embracing His teachings, we can all become instruments of peace, love, and service, transforming not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us.

As He himself said, “My Life is My Message.” It is up to each of us to live that message and make the world a better place, one act of love and kindness at a time.

The Sri Sathya Sai Global Council of New Zealand is dedicated to foster spiritual growth and community service throughout the country. Their initiatives encompass a wide range of activities, including community service, medical services, educational programs, devotional activities, unity of faiths programs, etc. Through these endeavours, the Council works to embody the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, promoting values of love, selfless service, and unity among all people.

Ravinder Grover