Exposition of Hadith on Hypocrisy

This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (33) in the Book of Belief outlines the distinguishing characteristics of nifāq (hypocrisy) in practice. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) with divine wisdom identifies three traits that manifest in one's conduct.

First Characteristic: Lying in Speech

"Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie" indicates a persistent habit of falsehood. The scholars explain this refers to lying in matters where truth is obligatory, showing a corrupt foundation in one's relationship with others and with Allah.

Imam al-Nawawi comments that this lying stems from a diseased heart that does not reverence the sanctity of truthful speech, which is the cornerstone of faith.

Second Characteristic: Breaking Promises

"Whenever he promises, he always breaks it" demonstrates unreliability and disregard for covenants. Islamic jurisprudence emphasizes that fulfilling promises is a religious obligation binding upon the believer.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that this trait shows absence of religious conscience, as the faithful person honors their commitments fearing Allah's account.

Third Characteristic: Betrayal of Trust

"If you trust him, he proves to be dishonest" refers to the violation of amānah (trusts). This encompasses both material trusts and confidential matters entrusted to one's care.

The scholars clarify that trustworthiness is among the greatest characteristics of prophethood, and its opposite indicates severe spiritual deficiency. Al-Qurtubi states that betrayal of trust shows the hypocrite's lack of fear of Allah in secret matters.

Scholarly Conclusion

The ulama affirm that possessing all three traits together indicates complete hypocrisy in conduct, even if the person professes Islam with his tongue. Having one or two traits moves one toward this dangerous path.

This hadith serves as a mirror for self-reflection and a warning to purify one's character from these destructive qualities that erode faith and social trust.