Once 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 asked, "O Allah's Apostle! inform us of it." He replied, "it is the date-palm tree." I told my father what had come to my mind and on that he said, "Had you said it I would have preferred it to such and such a thing that I might possess."
The Parable of the Date-Palm
This profound hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (131) presents a beautiful analogy wherein the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) compares the believer to a noble tree. The scholars explain that just as the date-palm remains evergreen throughout seasons, never shedding all its leaves at once, so too does the Muslim maintain good deeds continuously. The date-palm's every part brings benefit - its fruits nourish, its trunk provides shelter, its leaves serve as roofing - mirroring how every aspect of a true Muslim's life brings benefit to others.
Spiritual Significance
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari elucidates that the date-palm's steadfastness against winds symbolizes the Muslim's firmness in faith amidst life's trials. Its deep roots represent strong conviction (iman), while its high stature signifies spiritual aspiration. The tree's sweetness reflects the believer's pleasant character, and its productivity symbolizes continuous charity and good works.
Al-Qurtubi notes that just as the date-palm grows upright toward heaven, the Muslim's heart should constantly aspire toward divine proximity. The tree's purity from thorns represents the Muslim's freedom from harmful traits, while its clustered fruits symbolize the community of believers united in worship.
Lessons in Humility and Wisdom
The narration also teaches valuable lessons in conduct. Abdullah ibn Umar's hesitation, despite knowing the answer, demonstrates proper etiquette before the Prophet (ﷺ) and elders. His father Umar's later encouragement shows how wisdom values correct knowledge over worldly possessions. This incident exemplifies the Islamic principle of combining knowledge with humility, where recognizing truth matters more than personal recognition.