hadith 2

On the authority of Abdullah Ibn Amr, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Four traits, whoever possesses them is a hypocrite; and if one of them is found in him, he has a trait of hypocrisy until he abandons it:

  1. When he speaks, he lies.

  2. When he makes a promise, he breaks it.

  3. When he argues, he behaves in an immoral way.

  4. When he makes a covenant, he betrays it."

Authenticity of the Hadith

The hadith is found in both Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, narrated by Al-A'mash from Abdullah Ibn Murrah; it is also narrated from Abu Huraira from the Prophet (peace be upon him).

"The signs of a hypocrite are three," it is mentioned in the narration of Muslim.

Interpretation of the Hadith

Hypocrisy in Language:
It manifests in deceit and cunning, showing good while concealing the opposite.

In Sharia:
It is divided into two categories:

  1. Major Hypocrisy:
    Displaying faith while concealing disbelief, mentioned in the Quran and condemned.

  2. Minor Hypocrisy:
    Related to actions and practical conduct, such as hypocrisy in promises or speech.

Foundations of Hypocrisy

Rooted in the traits mentioned in the hadith:

  1. Lying when Speaking:
    Considered one of the greatest acts of betrayal.

  2. Breaking Promises: Divided into two types:

    • The first type: There is an intention not to fulfill.

    • The second type: There is an intention to fulfill but later breaks it.

  3. Immorality in Disputes:
    One of the most abhorrent characteristics of hypocrites.

  4. Betrayal of Covenants:
    True Islam requires fulfilling covenants.

  5. Betrayal of Trust:
    Trust must be returned to its rightful owners.

Signs of Hypocrisy

The traits mentioned here indicate the characteristics of hypocrites:

  • If he speaks, he lies.

  • If he promises, he breaks it.

  • If he argues, he behaves immorally.

  • If he makes a covenant, he betrays it.

Mixing Hypocrisy with Reality

The companions were fearful of hypocrisy:
The companions used to ask Hudhayfah about themselves, among them was Umar. Some reached a degree of fear of hypocrisy because of their actions based on hypocritical traits.

Conclusion

Hypocrisy requires high awareness and caution, as actions and intentions are closely linked. Minor hypocrisy serves as a warning sign of major hypocrisy. This emphasizes the importance of sincere thought and correct behavior in our daily dealings