Bees
Bees are small, winged insects known for their role in pollination and for producing honey. In the Bible, bees are mentioned in various contexts, often symbolizing industriousness and the natural abundance provided by God. Although bees themselves are not frequently mentioned, their product, honey, holds significant symbolic and practical importance in biblical texts.

In the Old Testament, bees are referenced in the context of swarming and aggression. For example, in Deuteronomy 1:44, the Amorites are described as coming out against the Israelites "like a swarm of bees," illustrating the fierce and overwhelming nature of their attack. Similarly, in Psalm 118:12, the psalmist compares the surrounding nations to bees: "They swarmed around me like bees, but they were extinguished like burning thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off."

Honey
Honey is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of prosperity and divine blessing. It is often associated with the Promised Land, described as "a land flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8). This phrase signifies the fertility and abundance of the land that God promised to the Israelites, highlighting honey as a representation of sweetness and sustenance.

In addition to its symbolic meaning, honey was a valuable food source in biblical times. It was used as a sweetener and was considered a delicacy. Proverbs 24:13 advises, "Eat honey, my son, for it is good, and the honeycomb is sweet to your taste." This verse underscores the nourishing and delightful qualities of honey, encouraging its consumption as beneficial.

Honey also appears in narratives involving key biblical figures. In 1 Samuel 14, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, eats honey during a battle, which revitalizes him: "He reached out the end of the staff that was in his hand, dipped it into the honeycomb, and raised his hand to his mouth; and his eyes brightened" (1 Samuel 14:27). This account illustrates honey's immediate energizing effect and its role as a natural source of sustenance.

Furthermore, honey is used metaphorically in the Bible to describe the sweetness of God's words and wisdom. Psalm 19:10 compares the decrees of the Lord to honey: "They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb." This metaphor emphasizes the desirability and richness of divine wisdom, likening it to the sweetness of honey.

In the New Testament, John the Baptist is described as having a diet that included "locusts and wild honey" (Matthew 3:4). This detail highlights the simplicity and austerity of John's lifestyle, as well as the availability of honey in the wilderness regions where he preached.

Overall, bees and honey in the Bible serve as powerful symbols of God's provision, the richness of His creation, and the sweetness of His word. They remind believers of the natural blessings bestowed by God and the spiritual nourishment found in His teachings.