Since hypocrisy is all about pretense, it is very difficult to define who is a hypocrite. However, the Prophet, peace be upon him, has outlined for us some characteristics which are common in all hypocrites. He says: “Three qualities are the mark of hypocrite: he lies when he speaks, he breaks his promises when he has given them and he is unfaithful to his trust.” [Related by Muslim]. Another version of this Hadith, also related by Muslim, quotes the Prophet, peace be upon him, as saying: “If the following four characteristics are part of a person’s character, he is a pure hypocrite. If one of them applies to him, he has a characteristic of hypocrisy until he abandons it: he lies when he speaks, he violates his pledges, breaks his promises and when he quarrels with someone he is shameless.
Do not lose hope, nor be sad