Hadith #10632

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

النِّفَاقُ مِنْ أَثَافِي الذُّلِّ

which translates to

Hypocrisy is from the andirons of ignominy.

To understand the connotation behind this statement, let us delve into the key words used in this Hadith.

Firstly, (Hypocrisy) "النِّفَاقُ" refers to the act of pretending to have beliefs, virtues, or qualities that one does not possess. It is a form of deception and insincerity, where one outwardly displays righteousness while concealing their true intentions and inner corruption.

Secondly, (Andirons) "أَثَافِي" are metal supports used to hold logs in a fireplace. They provide stability and support to the fire, ensuring its longevity and strength.

Lastly, (Ignominy) "الذُّلِّ" refers to a state of humiliation, disgrace, or dishonor. It is the opposite of honor and dignity, where one's actions or character bring shame upon themselves.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that shed light on the concept of hypocrisy and its connection to ignominy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Munafiqun (63:4),

And when you see them, their forms please you, and if they speak, you listen to their speech. [They are] as if they were pieces of wood propped up - they think that every shout is against them. They are the enemy, so beware of them. May Allah destroy them; how are they deluded?

This verse highlights the deceptive nature of hypocrites, who appear righteous and pleasing on the surface but lack true faith and sincerity. They are like pieces of wood propped up, just like andirons support the logs in a fireplace. However, their inner corruption and insincerity make them vulnerable to the consequences of their actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:10-11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the hypocrites, saying,

In their hearts is disease, so Allah has increased their disease; and for them is a painful punishment because they [habitually] used to lie. And when it is said to them, 'Do not cause corruption on the earth,' they say, 'We are but reformers.'

These verses emphasize the double-faced nature of hypocrites, who not only deceive others but also deceive themselves. Their hearts are diseased with falsehood, and their actions are driven by lies and corruption. They claim to be reformers and righteous individuals, but in reality, they contribute to the degradation and ignominy of society.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement that

Hypocrisy is from the andirons of ignominy.

Hypocrisy, with its deceptive nature and lack of sincerity, serves as a support for ignominy and disgrace. Just as andirons provide stability to the fire, hypocrisy sustains and perpetuates a state of dishonor and humiliation.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the dangerous consequences of hypocrisy. It not only tarnishes one's character but also contributes to the erosion of moral values and the disintegration of society. Muslims must strive to be sincere in their beliefs and actions, avoiding the trap of hypocrisy and its association with ignominy.

Let us reflect on this Hadith and strive to cultivate genuine faith and sincerity in our hearts, seeking Allah's guidance to protect us from the pitfalls of hypocrisy. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to uphold our principles and lead lives of integrity and honor.