“The worst type of person is the hypocrite and phoney.” (Imam Hassan Askari (PBUH))(1)
Hypocrisy or two-facedness means the state of incoherence between the appearance and inner feelings. Some are very expert in using that trick, better than any being. However, it is a mistake to think that because concealment and disguising is an inherent human trait, it is a natural rule that one can use any time.
Well, the art of secrecy and hiding secrets and beliefs or inner emotions is a virtue; in some occasions it is not necessary to publicize one’s beliefs. Because it is possible that others may not have the backgrounds to accept it or that their ill will might make trouble for the holder of that believer.
Furthermore it is not necessary to publicize one’s emotions. It is of the moral virtues to hide our emotions if we are feeling disappointed in order to not to make others upset too.
However, what which is a vice and is called hypocrisy and being phony is when one uses this trait for deceiving and misleading others; the act of hiding one’s beliefs, while it is a human characteristic, its misuse is a mishandling of a human capability.
Unfortunately some people make this mistake. They regard hypocrisy and deception as a merit for themselves, and regard it as cleverness. On the contrary, they regard honesty and openness as sings of stupidity, and think by these means they can make progress in the society. They seem to neglect the fact that the nature of being is built upon honesty and correctness.
That is why the Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of frankness and honesty and openness, and strongly suggests that hypocrisy and deceptiveness – with all its short term successes – will finally fail, and that the time will break the foundations of swindle and hypocrisy.(2),(3)
In this respect, Imam Hassan al-Askari (PBUH) regards the hypocrite and phony who distorts the truth with his deceptive words and actions as the worst personality type.
Yes; the foundation of the world is based upon truth, not upon trickery, and truly it is not possible to trick the basis of creation.
(The above is a selection taken from “Words of Wisdom and Advice”, by Martyr Murtada Mutahhari (with some changes))
The Roshd Website congratulates all Muslims, especially you dear friend, upon 8th of Rabee al-Thani, the birthday anniversary of the sincere servant of Allah (SWT) , the chosen and guiding leader, the 11th Master of the Shiites,
Imam Hassan al-Askari (PBUH).
Footnotes:
1. Tuhaf al-Uqoul, p. 486
2. “Like those before you, they were mightier than you in power, and more abundant in wealth and children. They had enjoyed their portion awhile, so enjoy your portion awhile as those before you enjoyed their portion awhile; and you indulged in play and pastime (and in telling lies against Allah and His Messenger Muhammad SAW) as they indulged in play and pastime. Such are they whose deeds are in vain in this world and in the Hereafter. Such are they who are the losers.” (The Holy Quran, 9:69)
3. “… But the evil plot encompasses only him who makes it …” (The Holy Quran, 35:43)