The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: "The signs of the hypocrite are three: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise he breaks it; and when he is entrusted with something, he betrays (that trust)."
The Book Of Faith and its Signs - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5021
The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: "The signs of the hypocrite are three: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise he breaks it; and when he is entrusted with something, he betrays (that trust)."
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) identifies three fundamental characteristics of hypocrisy (nifāq) in practice. These are not mere minor faults but grave spiritual diseases that indicate corruption in one's relationship with Allah and the community.
The first sign is lying in speech. The believer's speech should be grounded in truth, as truthfulness leads to righteousness and ultimately to Paradise. Lying, conversely, is the foundation of all evil and distances one from faith.
The second sign is breaking promises. A promise is a sacred covenant, and fulfilling it is a sign of strong faith and integrity. Breaking it demonstrates unreliability and a lack of fear of Allah, who is witness to all covenants.
The third sign is betrayal of trust (amanah). The believer is one whom people can trust with their lives and property. Betraying this trust is a severe transgression that disrupts the social fabric and violates the rights of others, which Allah takes very seriously.
Imam an-Nawawi and other scholars clarify that these are the signs of practical hypocrisy, which may exist even in one who professes Islam. They serve as a warning for self-reflection and a call to purify one's character to align inward faith with outward actions.