There are three characteristics of a hypocrite: when he spoke he told a lie, when he made promise he acted treacherously, and when he was trusted he betrayed.
The Book of Faith - Sahih Muslim 59 b
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim, one of the most authentic collections of Prophetic traditions, outlines three distinguishing characteristics of hypocrisy (nifāq) in one's conduct.
Commentary on Lying in Speech
When the hypocrite speaks, he lies. This indicates a fundamental corruption in his relationship with truth. The believer's speech should be grounded in honesty, as truthfulness leads to righteousness and righteousness leads to Paradise. The hypocrite uses falsehood as a tool to deceive others and create false appearances.
Commentary on Breaking Promises
When he promises, he breaks it. Promise-keeping is a pillar of Islamic ethics. Allah says in the Quran: "And fulfill the covenant, indeed the covenant will be questioned about" (17:34). The hypocrite treats promises lightly, using them as mere instruments of convenience without intention of fulfillment.
Commentary on Betrayal of Trust
When entrusted, he betrays. Amanah (trust) is a sacred responsibility in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There is no faith for one who cannot be trusted." The hypocrite violates this sacred trust, revealing the disconnect between his outward appearance and inner reality.
Scholarly Insights
Imam Nawawi explains these are characteristics of practical hypocrisy (nifāq al-'amali) rather than absolute hypocrisy in belief. A Muslim might fall into these behaviors without becoming a complete hypocrite, but they represent serious spiritual diseases.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes that these three traits are interconnected - lying corrupts speech, breaking promises corrupts commitments, and betrayal corrupts relationships. Together they represent a comprehensive moral failure.
Practical Application
The believer must constantly examine their conduct against these three traits. We must guard our tongues from falsehood, honor our commitments, and fulfill trusts conscientiously. These are not merely social ethics but fundamental aspects of genuine faith (iman).