Signs of a Hypocrite (Munafiq), According to the Qur’an and Hadith
1. Signs of a Munafiq in the Qur’an
The Qur’an describes the characteristics of hypocrites in multiple verses, especially in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:8-16) and Surah Al-Munafiqun (63:1-8). Some of their traits include:
They claim to believe in Allah but conceal disbelief in their hearts. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:8)
They try to deceive Allah and the believers, but in reality, they only deceive themselves. (2:9)
They have a disease in their hearts (doubt and hypocrisy), and Allah increases their disease. (2:10)
They rely on lies and attempt to mislead people. (2:11-12)
2. Signs of a Munafiq in Hadith
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ clearly identified the traits of a hypocrite in several hadiths:
They lie when they speak – “The signs of a hypocrite are three: When he speaks, he lies. (Bukhari, Muslim)
They break promises when he makes a promise, he breaks it
They betray trust when entrusted with something, they betray that trust
They use foul language when arguing and when they argue, they behave in an abusive manner.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
3. Other Signs of a Munafiq
They are lazy in prayer and perform it only to show off. (Surah An-Nisa 4:142)
They are two-faced acting one way in front of Muslims and another way in front of disbelievers. (3:167)
They love worldly benefits, power, and fame more than faith. (9:67-68)
They mock Islam, the Qur’an, and the Prophet ﷺ. (9:64-65)
How to Avoid Hypocrisy?
Always be truthful and sincere in speech and actions.
Fulfill promises and commitments honestly.
Strengthen faith through prayer, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and Qur’anic reflection.
Worship Allah sincerely, avoiding any form of showing off (riya).
Seek forgiveness from Allah and repent sincerely.
