What exactly is the meaning of ‘Sai Baba’? Sai means Sahasrapadma (thousand lotuses), sakshatkara (realisation, direct experience of the Lord), etc., Ayi means mother, and Baba means father. Thus, ‘Sai Baba’ means He who is both Father and Mother, and the Goal of all yogic endeavour — the ever-merciful Mother, the All-wise Father, and the Goal of spiritual efforts. Sai Baba is beyond the keenest intellect, the sharpest brain. Even the great seven sages (rishis) failed to grasp the Sublimity of Godhead. So do not try to delve into Me; develop faith and derive bliss (ananda) through love (prema). That is the utmost you can do and be benefited thereby. Do not run after all and sundry who blabber textbook stuff and wear the cloak of fakir-hood. Examine, judge and then admire. Examine their daily conduct, their motives, outlook and the coordination between what they say and do.

- Divine Discourse, Feb 26, 1961.