Volume Ten (1970)
Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume Ten (1971–1972) captures a period when Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s mission had firmly expanded internationally, and His teachings were increasingly focused on practical spirituality, service, and education with values. By this time, devotees from all over the world were visiting Prasanthi Nilayam, and Swami’s discourses addressed not only personal spiritual growth but also collective upliftment of humanity.
A central theme of this volume is the universality of God and the essential oneness of all religions. Swami emphasized that while rituals, customs, and scriptures may differ externally, their inner essence is identical: cultivating love, righteousness, peace, and selfless service. He exhorted devotees to rise above sectarian divisions and see the divinity in every human being, reinforcing the core principle of universal brotherhood.
Selfless service (seva) continues to be a cornerstone of Swami’s teachings in this period. He taught that service is the highest form of worship, as it purifies the heart, reduces ego, and strengthens God-consciousness. He encouraged organized service activities, including feeding the poor, providing healthcare, supporting education, and uplifting villages. These discourses helped establish the foundation for the structured international service framework of the Sri Sathya Sai Organization, emphasizing discipline, humility, and dedication in execution.
Education and youth development received particular emphasis. Swami stressed that knowledge without character is incomplete and potentially harmful. He encouraged students to cultivate virtues such as truthfulness, humility, patience, and devotion, alongside academic learning. These teachings contributed to the expansion of the Sri Sathya Sai Institutes of Higher Learning and the Education in Human Values programs worldwide, ensuring that spiritual and moral education accompanied intellectual development.
Swami also emphasized spiritual discipline and inner purification. He taught that controlling the senses, calming the mind, and cultivating virtues are essential for progress. Regular meditation, prayer, and namasmarana (remembrance of God) were highlighted as practical tools for self-realization. He explained that spiritual growth is not just theoretical but must be reflected in daily conduct, relationships, and service.
Another significant aspect of this volume is Swami’s guidance on global responsibility and moral leadership. He encouraged devotees to become instruments of God’s work in the world, promoting peace, harmony, and unity. Swami’s message during these years reflects a vision of worldwide Sai service and spiritual unity, preparing followers to carry His teachings beyond India.
In essence, Sathya Sai Speaks – Volume Ten consolidates and expands earlier teachings on devotion, discipline, service, and education, while addressing the growing international scope of His mission. It inspires seekers to live a life of love, selflessness, moral integrity, and spiritual awareness, serving as a guide for both personal transformation and collective upliftment of humanity.
