Meher Baba, Indian spiritual master (b. 1894)

Meher Baba, born Merwan Sheriar Irani on 25 February 1894, was a profound Indian spiritual master and a pivotal figure of the 20th century. He declared himself the Avatar, asserting he was God in human form, the eternal Christ, Buddha, and Krishna for the contemporary age. His spiritual movement garnered hundreds of thousands of followers, primarily within India, yet also established a significant global presence, drawing devotees from the United States, Europe, and Australia, who often refer to themselves affectionately as "Baba lovers."

Meher Baba's Spiritual Awakening and Encounters with Perfect Masters

At the tender age of 19, Meher Baba embarked on a transformative seven-year spiritual journey that profoundly shaped his life and teachings. This intensive period, often referred to by his followers as a time of "Perfect Master training," saw him encounter five highly revered spiritual figures of his time. These masters — Hazrat Babajan, Upasni Maharaj, Sai Baba of Shirdi, Tajuddin Baba, and Narayan Maharaj — are believed to have played crucial roles in awakening his inherent divinity and preparing him for his universal mission as the Avatar. Each of these encounters is considered a significant milestone in his spiritual development, culminating in his full realization.

The Essence of Meher Baba's Teachings: Consciousness and Divine Oneness

Central to Meher Baba's philosophy was his intricate "map of consciousness," a comprehensive framework described as a unique and profound synthesis of Sufi, Vedic, and Yogic terminologies. This conceptual framework elucidates the journey of the soul from its most subtle states to the ultimate realization of God. He taught that the fundamental purpose of all existence for every being is to consciously realize their innate divinity and to fully apprehend the absolute oneness of God, transcending all apparent divisions and illusions. His teachings emphasize that the individual self is not separate from the Universal Self, advocating for a direct, experiential understanding of this ultimate reality.

The Unprecedented Vow of Silence: Communication and Its Purpose

A defining and unprecedented aspect of Meher Baba's spiritual work was his lifelong vow of silence, which began on 10 July 1925, and continued for 44 years until his passing. He explained that this silence was not merely an ascetic practice but a necessary spiritual discipline for his universal work, stating that words, by their very nature, were prone to distortion and could not convey the absolute truth he embodied. For the initial period, he communicated primarily through an alphabet board, spelling out words and messages to his disciples. By 1954, he transitioned entirely to a system of unique and expressive hand gestures, which were then interpreted for his followers. This profound silence underscored his teaching that true spiritual understanding transcends verbal expression and is realized through inner experience.

Meher Baba's Enduring Legacy and the Sacred Site of Meherabad

Meher Baba departed from his physical form on 31 January 1969. His physical remains are interred in a tomb-shrine located in Meherabad, near Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India. Meherabad, which served as his primary ashram and a central hub for his activities during his lifetime, has since become a deeply revered place of pilgrimage for his dedicated followers. Known affectionately as "Baba lovers," these devotees from around the world undertake journeys to Meherabad to pay homage, meditate, and feel the continuing spiritual presence of Meher Baba at his samadhi, which is considered a powerful focal point for his universal love and compassion. This site stands as a testament to his enduring spiritual influence and the profound devotion he continues to inspire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meher Baba

Who was Meher Baba and what did he claim?
Meher Baba (born Merwan Sheriar Irani) was an Indian spiritual master of the 20th century. He claimed to be the Avatar, meaning God in human form, for the contemporary age, embodying the essence of past Avatars like Christ, Buddha, and Krishna.
What were Meher Baba's core teachings?
His central teaching focused on the "map of consciousness," emphasizing that the ultimate goal for all beings is to realize their innate divinity and the absolute oneness of God. He taught that individuals are not separate from the Universal Self and advocated for an experiential understanding of this reality.
Why did Meher Baba observe silence for 44 years?
Meher Baba began a vow of silence on 10 July 1925, which lasted until his death in 1969. He explained this silence was a spiritual discipline essential for his universal work, believing that words could not adequately convey the absolute truth he embodied. He communicated through an alphabet board and later through hand gestures with an interpreter.
Where is Meherabad, and why is it important to his followers?
Meherabad is located near Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India. It served as Meher Baba's primary ashram and is now the site of his tomb-shrine. It has become a sacred pilgrimage destination for "Baba lovers" worldwide, who visit to pay homage and experience his spiritual presence.
Who are "Baba lovers"?
"Baba lovers" is the affectionate term used by and for the hundreds of thousands of followers of Meher Baba around the world. They constitute a significant spiritual community devoted to his teachings and his person as the Avatar.