47/20. Chapter:
Sunan an-Nasai 5021 — Three Signs of a Hypocrite
The Sign of a Hypocrite
Three Signs of a Hypocrite in Islam
Sunan an-Nasai : 5021
Sunan an-NasaiHadith Number 5021
حَدَّثَنَا عَلِيُّ بْنُ حُجْرٍ قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا إِسْمَعِيلُ قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو سُهَيْلٍ نَافِعُ بْنُ مَالِكِ بْنِ أَبِي عَامِرٍ عَنْ أَبِيهِ عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ آيَةُ النِّفَاقِ ثَلَاثٌ إِذَا حَدَّثَ كَذَبَ وَإِذَا وَعَدَ أَخْلَفَ وَإِذَا اؤْتُمِنَ خَانَ
Abu Hurairah Narrated from:
The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: "The signs of the hypocrite are three: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise he breaks it; and when he is entrusted with something, he betrays (that trust)."
Reference : Sunan an-Nasa'i 5021In-book reference : Book 47, Hadith 37English translation : Vol. 6, Book 47, Hadith 5024
Summary of Sunan an-Nasai Hadith 5021
This hadith gives one of the clearest descriptions of the signs of a hypocrite. The Messenger of Allah [SAW] mentions three actions: when he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is trusted with something, he betrays that trust. The message is simple and direct. A Muslim’s character should be built on truth, trust, and keeping promises. The hadith does not ask us to look at other people first. It invites every reader to check the way they speak, the promises they make, and the trusts they carry. These three signs of hypocrisy are everyday matters, so they can be corrected in everyday life.
What we learn from this hadith
- Truthful speech is part of sound character.
- A promise should not be treated lightly.
- A trust must be protected and returned properly.
- A believer should check these traits in personal behavior.
