Hadith #5519

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

Our follower is like the bee. If they knew what was in its abdomen, they would surely have eaten it.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) uses the analogy of a bee to describe the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ).

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The word (shi'atuna) "شيعَتُنا" refers to the followers or the Shia of the Ahl al-Bayt. The term (ka al-nahl) "كَالنَّحْلِ" means "like the bee." The word (jawfiha) "جَوْفِها" refers to the abdomen or the inner part of the bee. And finally, the word (akaluhā) "أَكَلُوها" means

they would have eaten it.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nahl (16:68-69):

And your Lord inspired the bee, saying: 'Take for yourself among the mountains, houses, and among the trees and [in] that which they construct. Then eat from all the fruits and follow the ways of your Lord laid down [for you].' There emerges from their bellies a drink, varying in colors, in which there is healing for people. Indeed, in that is a sign for a people who give thought.

From these verses, we understand that the bee is a remarkable creature that builds its home in various places and feeds on the nectar of different fruits. In its abdomen, it produces a substance known as honey, which has numerous healing properties. This honey is hidden within the bee, and if people were aware of its benefits, they would surely consume it.

Drawing from this analogy, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt to the bee. Just as the bee carries the hidden treasure of honey within its abdomen, the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt possess a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and guidance that is often overlooked or misunderstood by others.

The knowledge and teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt are like the honey within the bee. If people truly understood the depth and significance of their teachings, they would eagerly embrace and follow them. However, due to various factors such as ignorance, prejudice, or lack of exposure, many fail to recognize the true value of the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt. Just as the bee diligently collects nectar from different sources to produce honey, the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt should actively seek knowledge and wisdom from various sources, including the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

By doing so, they can internalize and embody the profound teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt, which are like the healing properties found in honey. These teachings have the power to heal the spiritual ailments of individuals and societies, providing guidance, enlightenment, and a path towards righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to reflect on the hidden treasures within the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt and to strive to understand and implement them in our lives. Just as the bee's honey is a source of nourishment and sustenance, the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt are a source of spiritual nourishment and guidance for Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully illustrates the significance of seeking knowledge and understanding the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt. Just as the bee's honey is hidden within its abdomen, the profound wisdom and guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt are often overlooked or misunderstood. It is our duty as Muslims to delve into these teachings, internalize them, and apply them in our lives, for they hold the key to our spiritual growth and well-being. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to comprehend and follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt.