Shri Sathya Sai “Do you want diamond or Sai Baba?”

“Do you want diamond or Sai Baba?”

December 18,  1997

Swami asked a school student to remove his diamond ring, which He had materialised for him earlier. 

Swami  : (To the student) What do you want?

Student   : You, Swami.

Swami  : Do you want diamond or Sai Baba?

Student  : Sai Baba.

Swami  : Why? Sai Baba is available for ₹ 2 outside (Referring to the rings with Swami’s photos in them sold on the footpath outside Prasanthi Nilayam Ashram). Diamond has very high value.

Swami blew on the ring thrice and changed it into a gold ring with an embellished picture of Swami showing Abhaya Hasta.

Swami  : Sai Baba can change the sky into earth and the earth into sky in seconds, in seconds… (Giving the ring to the student) Now, no fear of diamond. You can wear it continuously.

Teacher  : Swami can do anything. So please transform our minds. Swami, we need Your grace…

Swami  : Capacity, capacity, sir.

Teacher  : Even that comes with Swami’s grace. 

Swami  : Yes, yes. I will do. But not now… at the right time. Time, time. Time is important, sir. Everything is time. 

Evening

This evening the school captains were sitting in the second block. The 12th and 10th class students were sitting in the fourth block. During Darshan, Swami spoke to the students sitting in the fourth block…

Student  : Swami, please allow us to come for morning Darshan.

Swami  : Every morning, I am coming to the ground. Stand along the roadside and have Darshan.

After interview, Swami came to the second block and spoke to the School captains…

Swami  : (Pointing towards the lion) See, the lion is very hungry. I will give you all to the Lion (Smiling). (To a student) Do you participate in high jump?

Student  : Yes, Swami.

Swami  : How high can you jump.

Student  : Swami, 5½ feet.

Swami  : What only 1½ feet? Even a girl can jump that much. Do you participate in long jump?

Student  : Yes, Swami.

Swami  : How much can you jump?

Student  : Swami, ten feet.

Do you want diamond or Sai Baba?

Swami  : Even a cockroach can jump that distance. 

(Looking at a logo representing cycling in the card) What is this?

Student  : Swami cycling.

Swami  : It does not look like cycling, it looks like ring tennis. Who made this card?

Student  : Swami myself.

Swami  : (Looking at the picture, Swami commented humorously) You ride a cycle with hands or legs???

Student  : With legs Swami. Swami… Padanamaskar.

Swami  : How can I give only to you? So many students are there

Student  : Swami please give to all students.

Swami  : No time, flute will start.

Student  : Swami Padanamaskar for captains.

Swami  : How many?

Student  : Fifteen Swami.

Swami  : Fifteen captains??? How can there be fifteen captains in one game? It will create confusion; there should be only one captain. (Then Swami permitted them to take Padanamaskar. One of the students asked for morning Darshan) Study well… Second year. After this you have engineering and medicine, you should get above 85- 90%.

Diamond’s Glitter or Sai Baba’s Grace: Which Path Will You Choose?

In today’s fast-paced world, people often chase wealth, luxury, and material success. Shining diamonds, expensive possessions, and social status seem attractive and desirable. Yet, there is a deeper question every spiritual seeker should ask: Do you want diamond or Sai Baba? This simple question encourages us to reflect on what truly matters in life.

A diamond is admired for its beauty and brilliance, but its shine is only external. The teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, on the other hand, illuminate the inner self. Material possessions may bring temporary happiness, but they cannot provide lasting peace or fulfillment. True joy comes from spiritual growth, selfless service, and a connection with the Divine.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba consistently taught the values of love, truth, righteousness, peace, and non-violence. He reminded humanity that God resides in every being and that serving others is the highest form of worship. When life presents a choice between worldly attractions and spiritual wisdom, it is worth asking: Do you want diamond or Sai Baba?

Modern society often measures success by financial achievements and possessions. However, many people who attain great wealth still feel empty within. This is because material success alone cannot satisfy the soul. Sai Baba’s teachings guide individuals toward inner contentment, helping them discover purpose beyond material gain. His message encourages us to develop compassion, humility, and faith rather than becoming attached to temporary pleasures.

Every person faces moments when they must choose between selfish desires and higher values. The path shown by Sai Baba may not always appear glamorous, but it leads to lasting peace and spiritual strength. His life serves as an example of unconditional love and service to humanity. In such moments of reflection, the question becomes even more meaningful: Do you want diamond or Sai Baba?

India has long been known for its rich spiritual heritage and the wisdom of great saints. The spirit of Devotional India continues to inspire millions to seek a deeper connection with God and embrace a life of service. Sri Sathya Sai Baba remains one of the most influential spiritual figures whose teachings transcend religion, culture, and nationality.

The message of Sai Baba is especially relevant in an age where distractions are endless and material desires constantly grow. He taught that true wealth lies in a pure heart, a loving attitude, and faith in God. These treasures never lose their value and remain with us throughout life.

As we move through life’s journey, it is important to reflect on our priorities. Are we pursuing temporary attractions, or are we seeking eternal values that nourish the soul? The answer can shape our character, decisions, and destiny. That is why the question Do you want diamond or Sai Baba? continues to hold profound significance for spiritual seekers everywhere.

The timeless teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba continue to guide devotees around the world. Through the inspiration of Devotional India, countless individuals are discovering the joy of faith, service, and inner transformation. Ultimately, each person must decide what they value most—the fleeting sparkle of material wealth or the everlasting light of divine wisdom.