Ibn 'Umar said, "The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, 'Tell me which tree is like the Muslim? It gives fruits at all times by the permission of its Lord and its leaves do not fall.' It occurred to me that it was the palm tree, but I did not want to speak as Abu Bakr and 'Umar, may Allah be pleased with them, were both present. When they did not speak, the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, 'It is the palm tree.' When I left with my father, I said, 'Father, I thought that it was the palm,.' He asked, 'What kept you from saying that? If you had said so, I would have preferred that to such-and-such.' I said, 'What kept me from doing so was that I did not see you or Abu Bakr speak, so I did not like to speak out.'"
The Parable of the Date Palm
The noble hadith from Ibn 'Umar, recorded in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 360, presents a profound analogy wherein the Prophet (ﷺ) compares the believer to a blessed tree. The scholars explain that the date palm was chosen for this similitude due to its numerous virtues that mirror the qualities of a true Muslim.
Continuous Benefit & Steadfastness
Imam Al-Qurtubi comments that the palm tree's perpetual fruit production symbolizes the Muslim's constant good deeds, remembrance of Allah, and beneficial knowledge that continues to yield reward throughout time. Just as the palm gives fruit in all seasons, the righteous believer's worship is not confined to specific times but remains consistent.
The characteristic of leaves that do not fall represents the Muslim's firmness in faith and unwavering commitment to Islamic principles. Unlike deciduous trees that shed leaves with changing seasons, the believer's faith remains constant through life's various circumstances.
Wisdom in Ibn 'Umar's Restraint
Scholars highlight the exemplary conduct of Ibn 'Umar in this narration. Despite knowing the answer, he demonstrated proper etiquette by remaining silent in the presence of his elders and superiors. This teaches us the importance of recognizing appropriate contexts for speech and showing respect to those of higher knowledge and status.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this incident illustrates the refinement of the Sahaba's character and their meticulous observance of adab (proper conduct), even when possessing correct knowledge.
Spiritual Lessons
Al-Nawawi explains that this parable encourages Muslims to be constantly productive in righteousness, firmly rooted in faith, and beneficial to others - just as every part of the date palm serves some useful purpose. The mention of "by the permission of its Lord" reminds us that all good emanates from Allah's will and grace.
The exchange between Ibn 'Umar and his father afterward demonstrates the value of sharing knowledge within proper boundaries and the importance of parental guidance in nurturing understanding.