Skip to content

Like the bee, we distill poison from honey for our…

“Like the bee, we distill poison from honey for our self-defense--what happens to the bee if it uses its sting is well known.” quote by Dag Hammarskjold
Download Open image
“Like the bee, we distill poison from honey for our self-defense--what happens to the bee if it uses its sting is well known.”

Dag Hammarskjold

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote uses a bee metaphor to illustrate that defensive actions can have harmful side effects for the defender.

In simple terms: Defending oneself can cause self‑harm.

Key Takeaway

Consider the costs of self‑defense.

Themes

ethics self‑preservation consequences

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • personal conflict
  • political strategy
  • health decisions

Key Concepts

metaphor biology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the protective action worth the personal cost?
  • How can one protect without harming oneself?
A Different Perspective

Self‑defense may damage the defender as well.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Dag Hammarskjold

Explore all 155 Dag Hammarskjold quotes

More Bees quotes

Browse all 770 Bees quotes