that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "The sign of a hypocrite is that whenever he speaks he lies, and whenever he makes a promise he does not fulfill it, and if he is entrusted he betrays."
Hadith Text - Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2631
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "The sign of a hypocrite is that whenever he speaks he lies, and whenever he makes a promise he does not fulfill it, and if he is entrusted he betrays."
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith from "The Book on Faith" in Jami' at-Tirmidhi identifies three distinguishing characteristics of hypocrisy (nifāq) in one's conduct. The Prophet (ﷺ) outlines these traits not as definitive proof of disbelief, but as signs indicating hypocrisy in action.
The first sign - habitual lying - demonstrates a fundamental corruption in speech. The believer's tongue must be truthful, for truthfulness leads to righteousness and ultimately to Paradise.
The second sign - breaking promises - reveals weakness in one's commitment and honor. The believer fulfills his covenants, for promise-breaking is among the traits of the hypocrites.
The third sign - betrayal of trust - shows deficiency in one's character and religion. The believer is trustworthy, guarding what is entrusted to him, for amānah (trustworthiness) is a fundamental Islamic virtue.
Scholars explain these are signs of practical hypocrisy that may exist in Muslims, requiring sincere repentance, unlike the hypocrisy of belief which removes one from the fold of Islam entirely.
Spiritual Remedy
The remedy for these traits lies in constant self-examination, seeking Allah's protection from hypocrisy, cultivating truthfulness in speech, fulfilling commitments conscientiously, and being meticulously trustworthy in all matters.