A couple of days ago I finally purchased the $40 dollar 8.8oz jar of Manuka Honey that had been waiting patiently in my virtual cart. The decision was a difficult one. What I could do with $40? The possibilities seemed endless. But reflecting on this verse was the ultimate push I needed. There's a difference of opinion as to what شفاء specifically in this verse is referring to: is it the Quran or is it the honey. The Quran has clearly been called شفاء in other verses. But early scholars like Tabari conclude it is in fact the honey, citing incidents from the life of the Prophet (SAW) to confirm the healing nature of honey. Perhaps because of its ready availability or its association with primitive methods of healing, I feel honey has been devalued. How could it be so easy? But then illness comes knocking. And between profit-obsessed companies, political agendas and a distortion of health and healing--would that the Most Merciful had just told us what medicine could be trusted? Ar Rahman only attributed the word شفاء to two things in the Quran (admin please correct me if I'm wrong); the Quran itself and/or honey. I think it's time to take this medical advice seriously. Alas, the nay-sayers will say: surely, it can't cure everything? It's not the only option. I'm not making any such medical claims. When the Prophet (SAW) was approached by such a person claiming that his honey prescription didn't work he repeated the advice (make him drink honey) because Allah is truthful and the stomach of your brother has lied. ⁕ حدثنا ابن عبد الأعلى، قال: ثنا محمد بن ثور، عن معمر، عن قتادة، قال: جاء رجل إلى النبيّ ﷺ، فذكر أن أخاه اشتكى بطنه، فقال النبيّ ﷺ: اذْهَبْ فاسْقِ أخاكَ عَسَلا ثم جاءه فقال: ما زاده إلا شدة، فقال النبيّ ﷺ: اذْهَبْ فاسْقِ أخاكَ عَسَلا فَقَدْ صَدَقَ اللَّهُ وكَذَبَ بَطْنُ أخِيكَ، فسقاه، فكأنما نُشِط من عِقال'. So, in sum: Honey is a شفاء. Dosing may vary. Maybe the efficacy of this medicine depends on one's conviction in this verse? Would love to hear your thoughts :)
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2 Comments
SubhanaAllah! I never knew there was a difference of opinion on what the Shifaa referred to. But don’t listen to me I’m no scholar. Alhamdulillah the healing properties of honey are universal! I doubt anyone will dispute that. May Allah put much blessings in your new manuka purchase and Grant you all its healing! Aameen