Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Amongst the trees, there is a tree, the leaves of which do not fall and is like a Muslim. Tell me the name of that tree." Everybody started thinking about the trees of the desert areas. And I thought of the date-palm tree but felt shy to answer the others then asked, "What is that tree, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) ?" He replied, "It is the date-palm tree."
Knowledge - Sahih al-Bukhari 61
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Amongst the trees, there is a tree, the leaves of which do not fall and is like a Muslim. Tell me the name of that tree." Everybody started thinking about the trees of the desert areas. And I thought of the date-palm tree but felt shy to answer the others then asked, "What is that tree, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) ?" He replied, "It is the date-palm tree."
Commentary on the Parable
The Prophet (ﷺ) employed this pedagogical method to stimulate intellectual engagement among his companions, encouraging them to reflect upon the natural world as a means of understanding spiritual truths. The date-palm tree's evergreen nature symbolizes the Muslim's constant state of faith and good deeds, which do not wither through changing circumstances.
This analogy highlights several virtues of the date-palm: its roots remain firmly grounded like the Muslim's faith; it consistently bears fruit like the believer's continuous good deeds; every part of it proves beneficial, just as every aspect of a Muslim's life should bring benefit; and it stands tall and straight, representing the Muslim's upright character and dignity.
Scholarly Interpretations
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that this hadith demonstrates the excellence of the date-palm and its suitability as a metaphor for the believer. The tree's leaves not falling signifies the Muslim's good deeds remaining accepted by Allah, unlike deciduous trees whose leaves scatter with seasonal changes.
Al-Qurtubi notes that just as the date-palm provides continuous benefit through its fruits, shade, and materials, the true Muslim continuously benefits others through knowledge, good character, and righteous actions throughout their life.
Pedagogical Wisdom
This teaching method exemplifies the Prophet's wisdom in engaging students through questioning rather than direct instruction, thereby enhancing retention and understanding. The companions' contemplation of desert trees shows their earnest desire to comprehend the lesson, while Abdullah ibn Umar's hesitation despite knowing the answer demonstrates proper etiquette with the Prophet and elders.