Three are the signs of a hypocrite, even if he observed fast and prayed and asserted that he was a Muslim.
The Book of Faith - Sahih Muslim 59 c
This commentary examines the profound hadith concerning the signs of hypocrisy (nifāq) as narrated in Sahih Muslim.
The Three Signs of Hypocrisy
When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted, he betrays the trust.
These three characteristics represent the essence of practical hypocrisy that manifests in one's dealings with others.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars explain that this refers to minor hypocrisy (nifāq al-'amalī) rather than major hypocrisy (nifāq al-i'tiqādī) which takes one outside the fold of Islam.
Ibn Hajar al-'Asqalānī states that these actions resemble the behavior of hypocrites, and persisting in them may lead to acquiring their characteristics.
Al-Nawawī emphasizes that possessing these traits makes one resemble the hypocrites, even while maintaining outward Islamic practices.
Spiritual Implications
The hadith serves as a severe warning against these destructive characteristics that corrupt society and damage spiritual integrity.
Muslim scholars stress that true faith requires sincerity in speech, fidelity in promises, and trustworthiness in responsibilities.
The preservation of these three qualities is essential for maintaining the authenticity of one's Islamic practice and spiritual state.