that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: There are four things that whoever has them, then he is a hypocrite, and whoever has one attribute from among them, then he has an attribute of hypocrisy,until he leaves it: Whoever lies whenever he speaks, he does not fulfill whenever he promises, he is vulgar whenever he argues, and whenever he makes an agreement he proves treacherous."
Hadith Text & Reference
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "There are four things that whoever has them, then he is a hypocrite, and whoever has one attribute from among them, then he has an attribute of hypocrisy, until he leaves it: Whoever lies whenever he speaks, he does not fulfill whenever he promises, he is vulgar whenever he argues, and whenever he makes an agreement he proves treacherous."
Source: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2632 | Book: The Book on Faith | Author: Jami' at-Tirmidhi
Meaning & Context
This hadith identifies four characteristics that are the distinguishing marks of hypocrisy (nifaq). The Prophet ﷺ clarifies that possessing all four traits indicates complete hypocrisy in faith, while having even one represents a branch of hypocrisy until the person abandons it.
Hypocrisy here refers to practical hypocrisy in actions, not necessarily the absolute hypocrisy in belief that places one outside the fold of Islam. This distinction is crucial in understanding the severity and application of this teaching.
Detailed Commentary on the Four Traits
1. Lying When Speaking: The habitual liar demonstrates a fundamental disconnect between inner reality and outward expression. Truthfulness (siddiq) is the foundation of faith, while lying undermines trust and corrupts social relations. The scholar Ibn Rajab notes that lying in speech is among the greatest sins that lead to hypocrisy.
2. Breaking Promises: Failing to fulfill commitments shows disregard for one's word and responsibility. Islam places immense emphasis on keeping covenants and promises, as they form the basis of social trust. Al-Munawi explains that breaking promises indicates weakness in faith and lack of fear of Allah.
3. Vulgarity in Argument: Using foul language, insults, or inappropriate speech during disputes reflects poor character and lack of self-restraint. The believer is commanded to argue in the best manner, maintaining dignity and seeking truth rather than victory. Ibn Hajar states that vulgar speech reveals the hypocrisy hidden in the heart.
4. Treachery in Agreements: Betraying trusts and covenants is particularly severe as it destroys social fabric. Whether in business, marriage, or political agreements, treachery demonstrates complete disregard for moral obligations. Qadi Iyad emphasizes that treachery is among the clearest signs of hypocrisy.
Scholarly Insights
Imam Nawawi explains that these traits are called "attributes of hypocrisy" because they were predominant among the hypocrites of Medina, and whoever exhibits them resembles them in these evil qualities.
Ibn Taymiyyah clarifies that the hypocrisy mentioned here is practical hypocrisy (nifaq al-amali) which doesn't necessarily take one out of Islam, unlike creedal hypocrisy (nifaq i'tiqadi). However, persistence in these traits can lead to greater spiritual danger.
The condition "until he leaves it" provides hope and emphasizes Islam's transformative nature. Abandoning these characteristics through repentance and reform removes this spiritual stain from the believer.
Practical Application
Muslims must regularly examine themselves for these traits and strive to cultivate their opposites: truthfulness, fulfilling promises, gracious disputation, and faithfulness in agreements.
Scholars recommend seeking refuge in Allah from hypocrisy, being mindful of speech, thinking before promising, controlling anger during arguments, and honoring all commitments as acts of worship.