Hadith #10637

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

The hypocrite is a shameless, foolish, wretched sycophant.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The term "munafiq" refers to a hypocrite, someone who outwardly professes faith but inwardly conceals disbelief or hypocrisy. The word "waqih" means shameless or audacious, indicating the boldness and lack of moral restraint in the hypocrite's actions. "Ghabi" translates to foolish, signifying the lack of wisdom and understanding in the hypocrite's behavior. "Mutamalliq" refers to a sycophant, someone who flatters and ingratiates themselves to gain favor or advantage. Lastly, "shaqi" means wretched or miserable, highlighting the ultimate fate of the hypocrite.

To gain a deeper understanding of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the characteristics and consequences of hypocrisy in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (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 audacity and shamelessness of the hypocrites who claim to be righteous while engaging in corrupt actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Munafiqun, Allah describes the hypocrites as follows: (63:7)

They are the ones who say, 'Do not spend on those who are with the Messenger of Allah until they disband.' And to Allah belongs the depositories of the heavens and the earth, but the hypocrites do not understand

This verse emphasizes the foolishness and lack of understanding exhibited by the hypocrites in their attempts to undermine the Prophet (ﷺ) and the community of believers.

The consequences of hypocrisy are severe, as Allah warns in Surah Al-Baqarah, (2:145)

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

This verse illustrates the wretchedness and misery that awaits the hypocrites in the Hereafter.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. By describing the hypocrite as shameless, foolish, wretched, and a sycophant, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inherent contradictions and moral bankruptcy of hypocrisy. The shamelessness of the hypocrite is evident in their audacious behavior, as they deceive others while claiming righteousness. Their foolishness lies in their inability to comprehend the consequences of their actions and the true nature of faith. The wretchedness of the hypocrite is a result of their ultimate fate in the Hereafter, where they will be deprived of any help or salvation. Finally, the hypocrite's sycophantic nature is a manifestation of their insincerity and willingness to compromise their principles for personal gain.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening words serve as a reminder for Muslims to strive for sincerity and integrity in their faith. It urges us to reflect on our own actions and intentions, ensuring that we do not fall into the trap of hypocrisy. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from hypocrisy and guide us on the path of righteousness.