Guru Nanak Dev Ji had two close companions: Bhai Bala and Bhai Mardana. Bhai Mardana was a Muslim. One day, Mardana told Guru Ji, “I wish to go to Mecca because it is believed that until a Muslim visits Mecca, he cannot be called a true Muslim.” Hearing this, Guru Nanak Dev Ji decided to accompany Mardana on his journey to Mecca.
When they arrived in Mecca, Guru Ji was very tired. He went to a resting place meant for pilgrims and lay down to rest, with his feet pointing towards the Kaaba. Seeing this, a caretaker named Jiyan became very angry. He scolded Guru Ji, “Why have you pointed your feet towards the Kaaba? This is disrespectful!”
Guru Nanak Dev Ji calmly replied, “Do not be angry. I am very tired and need rest. I, too, believe in God, just like you. I have come here for Him. I do not know where God’s house is, but you do. Please turn my feet in the direction where God does not reside.”
When Jiyan moved Guru Ji’s feet away from the Kaaba, he was astonished to see that the Kaaba itself seemed to move in the same direction. This miracle left Jiyan in awe. He realized that God is not confined to one direction or place but is present everywhere. Overwhelmed, he fell at Guru Ji’s feet and said, “I failed to recognize you. You are truly a man of God.”
Guru Nanak Dev Ji then explained to him, “God does not reside in any one direction or place. He is present everywhere. True worship lies in good deeds and purity of heart.”
This incident is also mentioned in the Guru Granth Sahib, teaching us that God is not limited to any one place or direction. He resides in all places and within every heart.
