Hadith #10647

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "كُلُّ مُنافِق مُريبٌ۔" which translates to

Every hypocrite is a sceptic [who puts doubts in the minds of the people].

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "munafiq" refers to a hypocrite, someone who outwardly professes faith but inwardly conceals disbelief or harbors ill intentions. The word "murib" means a sceptic or doubter, someone who spreads uncertainty and confusion. This Hadith highlights the dangerous nature of hypocrisy, as it not only involves deceit but also leads to the spreading of doubts and confusion among the believers.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that shed light on the concept of hypocrisy and its consequences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (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 hypocrites may deceive others, but ultimately they deceive themselves. Their doubts and skepticism not only harm the unity and trust within the Muslim community but also hinder their own spiritual growth and connection with Allah. They may try to sow seeds of doubt in the minds of believers, but they themselves remain trapped in their own web of deception.

The consequences of hypocrisy are severe, as Allah warns in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:10),

In their hearts is disease, so Allah has increased their disease; and for them is a painful punishment because they [habitually] used to lie.

This verse highlights that hypocrisy is a spiritual disease that corrupts the heart and distances one from Allah's mercy. The hypocrites' constant lies and deceit lead to an increase in their spiritual sickness, and they will face a painful punishment in the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of hypocrisy and its detrimental effects. It urges us to be vigilant against those who spread doubts and uncertainty among the believers, as they can weaken the faith of individuals and disrupt the unity of the community.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages us to strengthen our own faith and seek knowledge to protect ourselves from falling into the trap of hypocrisy. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and he emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge throughout his life. By acquiring knowledge and understanding the teachings of the Quran, we can safeguard ourselves from doubts and skepticism.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the dangers of hypocrisy and the harm it can cause to the Muslim community. It serves as a call to action for Muslims to be steadfast in their faith, seek knowledge, and be aware of those who spread doubts and uncertainty. By doing so, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the destructive influence of hypocrisy. May Allah guide us all on the straight path and protect us from the whispers of the hypocrites.