Hadith #10644

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 righteous companions.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the characteristics of the hypocrites. He states that they are jealous of those who are in comfort, intensify the distress of the distressed, and destroy the hopes of the hopeful. The hypocrites are individuals who outwardly claim to be believers, but inwardly harbor disbelief and hypocrisy.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this hadith to gain a better understanding. The first word is (hasadu) "حَسَدُ", which means jealousy or envy. The hypocrites are filled with envy towards those who are in a state of comfort and prosperity. They resent the blessings and success of others, rather than being content and grateful for their own blessings.

The second word is (mu'akkido) "مُؤَكِّدُوا", which means to intensify or increase. The hypocrites not only feel jealous, but they also actively work to intensify the distress and hardships faced by those who are already suffering. They take pleasure in the misfortune of others and seek to exacerbate their pain.

The third word is (muqnitu) "مُقْنِطُوا", which means to destroy or shatter hopes. The hypocrites are experts at crushing the hopes and aspirations of those who are optimistic and hopeful. They spread negativity and discouragement, undermining the confidence and motivation of others.

To understand the gravity of these characteristics, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive nature of envy and jealousy. Allah says, (Quran 4:54)

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? But we had already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

Envy not only harms the envied, but it also prevents the envious from appreciating the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of supporting and comforting those in distress. In Surah Al-Tawbah, Allah says, (Quran 9:107)

And [there are] those [hypocrites] who took for themselves a mosque for causing harm and disbelief and division among the believers and as a station for whoever had warred against Allah and His Messenger before. And they will surely swear, 'We intended only the best.' And Allah testifies that indeed they are liars.

The hypocrites not only intensify the distress of others, but they also create divisions and harm within the community of believers.

Moreover, the Quran encourages us to be a source of hope and support for others. In Surah Al-Tawbah, Allah says, (Quran 9:58)

And among them are those who criticize you concerning the [distribution of] charities. If they are given from them, they approve; but if they are not given from them, at once they become angry.

The hypocrites are quick to destroy the hopes of others, as they only support and approve when it benefits them personally.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of the actions of hypocrites. He states that their fallen victims are lying on every path, meaning that their deceitful actions cause harm and destruction wherever they go. They have means to approach every heart, indicating their ability to manipulate and deceive others. Lastly, they have false tears for every occasion of grief, showing their insincerity and lack of genuine empathy.

Reflecting upon this hadith, we are reminded of the importance of sincerity, contentment, and compassion. As Muslims, we should strive to be grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us, support and comfort those in distress, and inspire hope in others. Let us seek refuge in Allah from the characteristics of the hypocrites and strive to embody the qualities of true believers. May Allah guide us on the straight path and protect us from the influence of hypocrisy.