An-Nahl (النحل) - Surah Details

16. An-Nahl (النحل)

Meaning: The Bee

Total Ayahs: 128

Place of Revelation: Mecca

Summary

Surah An-Nahl is named after the bee (an-nahl) mentioned in verses 68-69 as a sign of Allah's wisdom. It extensively discusses Allah's blessings in nature, the folly of polytheism, and the consequences of rejecting truth. The Surah presents numerous natural phenomena as proofs of Allah's existence and power, while warning against ingratitude. It also provides guidelines for righteous living and responds to objections raised by disbelievers against the Prophet (PBUH).

Core Message

Allah's countless blessings demand gratitude. Nature contains signs for those who reflect. Truth will ultimately prevail over falsehood through divine wisdom.

Benefits

The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized reflecting on Surah An-Nahl's signs of creation. Scholars note its recitation increases awareness of Allah's blessings. The 'bee verses' (68-69) are particularly recommended for reflection on divine wisdom in creation.

Famous Verses

16:69 "يَخْرُجُ مِنۢ بُطُونِهَا شَرَابٌ مُّخْتَلِفٌ أَلْوَٰنُهُۥ فِيهِ شِفَآءٌ لِّلنَّاسِ" - 'From their bellies comes a drink of varying colors wherein is healing for people.'
16:90 "إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَأْمُرُ بِٱلْعَدْلِ وَٱلْإِحْسَٰنِ..." - 'Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and giving to relatives...'
16:125 "ٱدْعُ إِلَىٰ سَبِيلِ رَبِّكَ بِٱلْحِكْمَةِ وَٱلْمَوْعِظَةِ ٱلْحَسَنَةِ..." - 'Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction...'

Moral Lesson

Recognize and appreciate Allah's blessings. Approach da'wah with wisdom. Nature is a book of divine signs for the thoughtful.

Divine Attributes

Ar-Razzaq (The Provider), Al-Khaliq (The Creator), Al-Hakim (The Wise), Ash-Shakur (The Appreciative)

Keywords

Bees Nature Blessings Gratitude Da'wah Signs