“You must be a lotus, unfolding its petals when the sun rises in the sky, unaffected by the slush where it is born or even the water which sustains it!”
- November 23, 1926 – April 24, 2011
- Indian
- Spiritual Leader, Guru, Philanthropist, Founder of the Sathya Sai Organization
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Quote
“You must be a lotus, unfolding its petals when the sun rises in the sky, unaffected by the slush where it is born or even the water which sustains it!”
Explanation
In this metaphor-rich quote, Sathya Sai Baba urges individuals to embody the lotus, a powerful symbol in Indian philosophy. The lotus blooms in muddy waters, yet remains unstained and beautiful, illustrating how one can lead a pure, elevated life amid worldly impurities and distractions. “Unfolding its petals when the sun rises” suggests the importance of spiritual awakening, as the sun represents divine truth or higher consciousness.
The contrast between the lotus and its environment emphasizes detachment and resilience. Being unaffected by the slush or even the water speaks to the ability to remain spiritually grounded and morally upright, regardless of one’s origin or the circumstances that sustain them. Sai Baba is highlighting that while society, family, or even supportive environments may influence us, true spiritual growth requires inner strength and independence from all external conditions.
Applied to modern life, this teaching is a call to inner integrity. For instance, someone growing up in a corrupt or materialistic environment can still choose to live ethically and compassionately, just as the lotus blooms unstained. It’s a reminder that great character is not determined by one’s surroundings, but by one’s response to them—and that true beauty unfolds when aligned with spiritual light, not worldly validation.
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