Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The signs of a hypocrite are three: Whenever he speaks he tells a lie; whenever he is entrusted he proves dishonest; whenever he promises he breaks his promise."

Source and Authenticity

This narration is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari (Book: Wills and Testaments (Wasaayaa), Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 2749) and is unanimously considered authentic by Muslim scholars.

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith identifies three fundamental characteristics that indicate hypocrisy (nifaq) in a person's character, even if they outwardly profess Islam. Scholars explain these are the traits of practical hypocrisy that corrupt one's dealings with people.

The first trait - habitual lying in speech - demonstrates a lack of concern for truthfulness, which is the foundation of faith. The second - betrayal of trusts - shows disregard for others' rights and property. The third - breaking promises - reveals unreliability and untrustworthiness in commitments.

Imam al-Nawawi comments that possessing all three traits makes one resemble the hypocrites in their evil qualities, even if they don't constitute the major hypocrisy of concealing disbelief. Scholars emphasize that a Muslim must strive to purify themselves from these characteristics entirely.

Practical Implications

This teaching serves as both a warning and guidance. Muslims are instructed to examine their own conduct and ensure they are free from these destructive habits. The presence of even one of these traits should prompt immediate repentance and reform.

The hadith also provides criteria for evaluating others' reliability in social, business, and religious matters. However, scholars caution against hastily labeling Muslims as hypocrites based on occasional faults, as the reference is to those who persistently exhibit these traits without remorse.