The Qur'an contains this illuminating insight into the life and work of bees:

"Your Lord inspired the bee to build its homes in the mountains, in the trees, and in the hives which men make for it. Then to feed on every kind of fruit, and follow the trodden paths of its Lord. From its belly comes forth a fluid of many hues, a healing drink for men. Surely in this there is a sign for those who would give thought." (16:68-69)

Thanks to scientific research in the last few decades, we now have considerable evidence at our disposal about how God "inspired the bees" To prepare this substance, in which there is remedy for mankind. In ancient times the efficaciousness of honey was well-known to man from personal experience, and it was widely used as a cure for various diseases. It was only in the twentieth century, however, that the remedial properties of honey were scientifically demonstrated-and considerable work remains to be done in this field.

According to Dr. Bolog Beck there are many other germs equally destructible in honey. The reason for honey's bactericidal quality, he says, lies in its hygroscopic ability. It literally draws every particle of moisture out of germs. When deprived of water germs, like any other living organism, perish. The power of honey to absorb moisture is almost unlimited: it will draw moisture from metal, glass and even stone crocks.

God inspired the bees to go about their work in a positive and constructive manner. The end result of their efforts is a remedial substance of immense benefit to man. In like manner God has shown man, through the Prophets, the way to lead a constructive, upright life, thus finding his true place in the world and benefiting others. Unlike bees, however, man has failed to act on this divine inspiration. As a result of this failure he finds himself at odds both with nature and his fellow men. In a world where everything works for the benefit of the rest of creation, he sows the seeds of destruction both for himself and for others.