Volume Eighteen (1985)
Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume Eighteen (1979–1980) reflects a period when Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings were firmly established on a global scale, emphasizing practical spirituality, moral values, and organized selfless service (seva). By this time, devotees from all over the world were visiting Prasanthi Nilayam, and Swami’s discourses focused on guiding seekers in integrating spiritual growth with daily life, education, and social responsibility.
A central theme of this volume is the universality of God and the unity of all religions. Swami emphasized that while the external forms of worship, scriptures, and rituals may differ, the inner essence of all religions is identical: love, truth, peace, and selfless service. He urged devotees to rise above narrow sectarianism, recognizing the Divine in every being. These teachings further strengthened the foundation of the global Sri Sathya Sai Organization, promoting unity and harmony among followers of different faiths.
Selfless service (seva) remains a cornerstone of Swami’s guidance. He explained that true devotion is expressed through acts of love and compassion performed without expectation or ego. Devotees were encouraged to participate in systematic seva activities, including feeding the needy, providing medical care, supporting education, and uplifting villages. Swami’s guidance emphasized discipline, humility, and sincerity in all service, helping institutionalize global Sai seva projects.
Education and youth development were strongly highlighted. Swami taught that knowledge without moral and spiritual values is incomplete and potentially harmful. He encouraged students to cultivate virtues such as honesty, humility, patience, devotion, and self-discipline, alongside academic knowledge. These teachings further strengthened the Sri Sathya Sai Institutes of Higher Learning and the global Education in Human Values (EHV) program, ensuring that education nurtured both intellect and character.
Another key focus is spiritual discipline and self-purification. Swami emphasized the control of the senses and the mind, teaching that mastery over the mind is essential for spiritual progress. Meditation, prayer, and namasmarana (remembrance of God) were highlighted as practical tools for inner transformation. He reminded devotees that spirituality is not merely theoretical but must manifest in thoughts, words, and actions in daily life.
Swami also addressed family life, social harmony, and ethical responsibility. He emphasized respect for parents, love for children, and maintaining peace and harmony at home as the foundation for a healthy society. He urged devotees to cultivate homes as centers of prayer, love, and moral discipline, thereby contributing to societal upliftment.
In essence, Sathya Sai Speaks – Volume Eighteen consolidates Swami’s core teachings on love, discipline, service, education, and spiritual growth, while emphasizing their application in both personal and global contexts. It inspires seekers to live with humility, compassion, and integrity, balancing inner realization with outward service for the welfare of humanit
