“If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether…”

“If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether…”

November 29, 1999

After the interview, Swami came out to the second block.

Swami : Have the sports and games started?

Student : Yes, Swami.

Swami : Which sport are you participating in? (No answer) Aye, you must participate. All boys should participate. Did the Vice Chancellor tell anything? 

Student : No, Swami.  

Swami : Anyway, I am not coming.  There is no connection between sports and Me. (Jokingly) Not My business, not My business… Vice Chancellor!! (To the Vice Chancellor Sri S.V. Giri) Have the sports and games started?

VC : Yes, Swami

Swami : Who is captain, vice-captain? (No answer) Captain, Vice-captain, President, Vice-president, Chairman. (Smiled. Then more seriously) What are you doing?

VC : Swami should tell.

Swami : There is no connection between sports and Me. Some of the boys are not participating. All boys should participate – MBA, MFM, and M.Tech, and all degree boys. All should participate .Make sure that all boys participate. 

VC : Swami, watch Chestamu. (We’ll keep a watch, Swami)

Swami : To watch, you need to put a watchman. (To a student) Aye Bheema, do the job of the watchman.

Student : Yes, Swami.

Swami : What will you do if you don’t participate? (The student pointed to Swami’s feet) There is no connection between sports and Me.

VC : It is all for your satisfaction, Swami.

Swami : No, no, not for Swami’s satisfaction. There is not a single person who is working for Swami’s satisfaction. Not a single person. Ask them only this question, whether they came here for their satisfaction or for Swami’s satisfaction. Ask in English”

VC : (To students seated there) Swami is asking whether you have come here for your satisfaction or for Swami’s blessings.

Students : (In a loud chorus) Swami’s blessings.

Swami  : (To VC) You didn’t ask what I asked you to. You put the answer in the question itself. There is a big difference between satisfaction and blessings. I bless even an atheist. Whatever I do is for your own good, nothing selfish in me from top to toe. If you know this, it is enough. For those who don’t like Swami and sports, there is no place for them here, in our Institute. They can go outside, elsewhere. They should be sent out. Remember what Tulasidas said? ‘Those who haven’t understood the value of the Divine name are like those who don’t know the value of the gem that is with them. They treat it just like a marble and play with it. But once you know its value, you keep it safe, locked in a Godrej almirah. You don’t know the value yet. Payoji Maine Naam Ratan Dhan Payo. (I have received the gem of the name of the Lord) Nobody is looking inside to find out the meaning.  Last year what happened? You didn’t listen to My words and you saw what happened. (During the Sports Meet Festival in the previous year, Bhagavan had an injury. He took over the calamity that was to befall the students onto His body. Prior to the Sports Festival, Bhagavan had told all the students and staff to be very cautious while performing various stunts.) I told in Brindavan also, didn’t I?  Cheppina Maata Vinaka Pote, Patanamaipotaru. (If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether) Lower than the earth, lower and lower to Patala. There is no source, only force. What boy, source or force?

Student  : Source

Swami  : (Smiling) Source for sports!

If You Do Not Listen to What I Say Guide

Shri Sathya Sai Baba always emphasized the value of righteousness, faith, and obedience to divine wisdom. Human beings often face difficulties because they ignore spiritual guidance and become trapped in ego, desires, and worldly distractions. The message behind the statement If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether is not a threat but a compassionate warning from a spiritual master who wishes to protect humanity from suffering.

Sai Baba taught that every action has consequences. When people move away from truth, love, and moral values, they create obstacles in their own lives. The divine words If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether remind devotees that neglecting spiritual principles can lead to inner turmoil, confusion, and unhappiness. True destruction is not merely physical; it is the loss of peace, character, and connection with God.

Throughout his teachings, Shri Sathya Sai Baba encouraged devotees to practice self-discipline, compassion, and selfless service. He believed that following divine instructions helps individuals overcome negative tendencies and develop noble qualities. In the spiritual journey, guidance from a realized master acts as a light that shows the correct path. Ignoring such wisdom can result in repeated mistakes and unnecessary hardships. This is why the message If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether carries deep spiritual significance.

The teachings of Sai Baba continue to inspire countless devotees across the world. Through prayer, meditation, and service to humanity, individuals can experience spiritual growth and inner transformation. Many followers associated with Devotional India regularly share stories of how Sai Baba’s guidance has helped them find strength during difficult times. His message encourages people to look within and discover the divine presence in their hearts.

A sincere devotee understands that obedience to spiritual teachings is not about fear but about trust. Divine guidance is offered for the welfare of all. When one follows the path of truth and righteousness, life becomes more meaningful and harmonious. The reminder If you do not listen to what I say, you will be destroyed altogether encourages devotees to reflect on their actions and remain aligned with higher values.

In today’s fast-paced world, the teachings of Shri Sathya Sai Baba are more relevant than ever. They inspire individuals to cultivate love, humility, and devotion while serving society selflessly. Platforms like Devotional India help spread these timeless messages to a wider audience. By embracing Sai Baba’s teachings and living according to divine principles, devotees can achieve lasting peace, spiritual fulfillment, and a closer connection with God.