Hadith #10633

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

النِّفَاقُ مَبْنِيٌّ عَلَى المَيْنِ

which translates to

Hypocrisy is founded on falsehood.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the nature and essence of hypocrisy.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (nifaq) "نِّفَاقُ" refers to hypocrisy, which is the act of pretending to have beliefs, virtues, or qualities that one does not possess. It is a form of deceit and insincerity. The word (mabniyun) "مَبْنِيٌّ" means founded or built upon, indicating that hypocrisy is firmly rooted in something. Finally, the word (al-mayn) "المَيْنِ" refers to falsehood or lies.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the consequences of hypocrisy in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:11-12)

And when it is said to them, 'Do not cause corruption on the earth,' they say, 'We are but reformers.' Unquestionably, it is they who are the corrupters, but they perceive it not.

This verse highlights the deceptive nature of hypocrisy. Hypocrites claim to be righteous and virtuous, but in reality, they are the ones causing corruption and mischief. They deceive themselves and others by masking their true intentions and actions.

Another verse that sheds light on the essence of hypocrisy is found in Surah Al-Baqarah, where Allah says, (Quran 2:8-9)

And of the people are some who say, 'We believe in Allah and the Last Day,' but they are not believers. They [think to] deceive Allah and those who believe, but they deceive not except themselves and perceive [it] not.

This verse emphasizes that hypocrisy is not only a deception of others but also a self-deception. Hypocrites may outwardly claim to believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment, but their actions and intentions contradict their words. They attempt to deceive Allah and the believers, but in reality, they only deceive themselves.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Hypocrisy is founded on falsehood,

encapsulates the essence of hypocrisy. Hypocrisy is built upon a foundation of lies, deceit, and insincerity. It is a facade that crumbles when exposed to the light of truth. Just as a building constructed on a weak foundation is destined to collapse, hypocrisy is inherently unstable and unsustainable.

The consequences of hypocrisy are severe, both in this world and the hereafter. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 4:145)

Indeed, the hypocrites will be in the lowest depths of the Fire - and never will you find for them a helper.

This verse serves as a stark reminder of the fate of hypocrites. Their false beliefs and actions will lead them to the depths of Hell, where they will be devoid of any support or assistance. The consequences of hypocrisy are not limited to the afterlife; it also has detrimental effects on individuals and society in this world.

Hypocrisy undermines trust, unity, and sincerity within the Muslim community. It weakens the bonds of brotherhood and hinders the progress and prosperity of the ummah. It is essential for Muslims to be aware of the dangers of hypocrisy and strive to purify their hearts and intentions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be sincere in their beliefs and actions. It urges us to strive for authenticity and integrity in our worship, relationships, and dealings with others. By upholding the truth and rejecting falsehood, we can protect ourselves from the pitfalls of hypocrisy and attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to recognize and avoid hypocrisy in all its forms. May He purify our hearts and grant us sincerity in our faith and actions. And may we be among those who are steadfast in the truth and earn His eternal pleasure.