Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.

Add pitted dates to the boiling water and stir over low heat for about 1 minute to soften and partially dissolve the dates.

Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Add molasses, butter, salt, and soda to the date mixture. Be aware that the mixture will foam.

Let the mixture cool for at least 20 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Grease an 8"x4"x2" loaf pan thoroughly.

Add whole wheat flour to the cooled date mixture and stir until well combined.

Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 60 minutes, or until the bread is brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Place the pan on a wire rack to cool for about 5 minutes.

Remove the cooled loaf from the pan.

Wrap the loaf in a plastic bag and store it at room temperature for at least 24 hours before slicing.

Slice and serve with cream cheese or your favorite spread.