The Prophet [SAW] said: "There are four (traits), whoever has them is a hypocrite and whoever has one of them, then has one of the traits of hypocrisy, until he gives it up: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; when he makes a covenant, he betrays it; and when he argues, he resorts to foul language."
The Book Of Faith and its Signs - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5020
The Prophet [SAW] said: "There are four (traits), whoever has them is a hypocrite and whoever has one of them, then has one of the traits of hypocrisy, until he gives it up: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; when he makes a covenant, he betrays it; and when he argues, he resorts to foul language."
Commentary on the Four Traits of Hypocrisy
This profound hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i delineates the distinguishing characteristics of nifaq (hypocrisy) in practice. The scholars explain that these are traits of practical hypocrisy that manifest in behavior, distinct from the fundamental hypocrisy of disbelief.
First trait: Lying in speech - The scholars clarify that habitual lying indicates corruption in the heart and distance from true faith, as the believer's speech should reflect truthfulness which is the foundation of character.
Second trait: Breaking promises - Islamic jurisprudence emphasizes that fulfilling promises is a religious obligation, and breaking them demonstrates untrustworthiness and weak faith.
Third trait: Betraying covenants - This includes all types of trusts and agreements, whether with Allah or with people. Betrayal violates the sacredness of covenants which Islam highly respects.
Fourth trait: Foul language in argument - The righteous scholars note that when truth is on one's side, there is no need for obscenity or vulgarity. Resorting to such language often indicates weakness in one's position.
The conditional phrase "until he gives it up" provides hope for repentance and emphasizes that these traits are not permanent condemnations if one abandons them and returns to righteous conduct.