Volume Fifteen (1981-1982)
Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume Fifteen (1976–1977) represents a period when Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings became even more structured, addressing the needs of a rapidly expanding global following. This volume reflects Swami’s focus on practical spirituality, universal love, moral education, and the spirit of organized selfless service (seva). By this time, the Sri Sathya Sai Organization had grown significantly in India and abroad, and Swami’s discourses provided guidelines for devotees to balance inner transformation with outer service to society.
A central theme in this volume is the inherent divinity of man. Swami emphasized that every individual is a spark of the Divine, and the purpose of human life is to recognize this truth through self-inquiry, devotion, and service. He reminded devotees that rituals, scriptures, and traditions are meaningful only when they lead to the realization of the Atma (Self). This teaching was particularly powerful for international seekers, who were being drawn more deeply into Swami’s universal message.
Seva (selfless service) continues to hold a central place. Swami explained that service done with love and humility is the highest form of worship. He encouraged devotees to see service not as charity but as an offering to God dwelling in every being. Service to the poor, the sick, and the needy was repeatedly emphasized, along with practical guidance on organizing activities through the Sai Seva Organizations. This period marks the strengthening of structured seva initiatives across villages, hospitals, and schools.
Education and youth development were also key highlights. Swami stressed that education without character is incomplete and potentially harmful. He exhorted students to develop virtues like honesty, humility, discipline, and respect for parents and teachers. This period further advanced the idea of integrating education with human values, leading to the strengthening of the Sri Sathya Sai Institutes of Higher Learning and the global Education in Human Values (EHV) movement.
Swami also placed great emphasis on spiritual discipline. He taught that the control of senses and mind is the foundation of spiritual progress. Meditation, prayer, and namasmarana (constant remembrance of God’s name) were presented as practical tools to master the mind and purify the heart. He reminded devotees that true spirituality must reflect in everyday conduct—truthful speech, righteous action, compassion, and humility.
Another theme in this volume is global unity and universal brotherhood. Swami urged devotees across nations to rise above differences of caste, creed, language, or nationality, and to live as one human family under God. His discourses envisioned a world united by love and service, where spiritual values guide social, cultural, and political life.
In essence, Sathya Sai Speaks – Volume Fifteen consolidates Swami’s core teachings on love, service, education, and discipline, while offering practical guidance for a rapidly expanding international movement. It inspires seekers to balance self-realization with social responsibility, living lives of integrity, humility, and compassion, and working for the upliftment of humanity.
