Get to know 17 Characteristics of Hypocrites
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| Photo: OnIslam.Net |
Get to know 17 characteristics of hypocritical people around you, one of which is that they like to praise excessively
- A hypocritical person is an individual who displays behavior or attitudes that are contrary to the values or beliefs they actually have.
They often pretend to be good in front of others, but actually act contrary to that. They often use the guise of kindness for personal gain or to deceive others. Their presence often raises trust issues in interpersonal relationships. Therefore, we need to be wary of hypocritical people around us.
Hypocrites show special characteristics that can be read by people who regularly interact with them. This article will discuss these characteristics in full. Reported from the Believe in Mind page on Sunday 31/3, the following are the characteristics of hypocrites that you need to know to protect yourself.
1. Master of manipulation
Hypocritical or fake people have mastered manipulation. They know how to play on other people's emotions, using charm or flattery to deceive and control those around them.
They may exploit weaknesses for personal gain or use emotional manipulation to get what they want.
2. Thirst for validation
Hypocrites often seek validation and attention from others. They are hungry for praise, and constantly try to be the center of attention. Their thirst for external validation blinds them to developing genuine connections or relationships.
3. Inconsistent behavior
One of the main signs of a hypocrite is their inconsistent behavior. They may present themselves differently in various situations or change their personality to suit or manipulate others. Such inconsistencies raise questions about their true intentions and nature.
4. Lack of empathy
Empathy is a fundamental quality of genuine human relationships, but it is often lacking in hypocritical people. They show little concern for the feelings or well-being of others and focus more on self-preservation.
Their lack of empathy can lead to shallow relationships and a lack of genuine emotional connection.
5. Dishonest and deceptive
They are notorious for their dishonesty and fraudulent behavior. They may make up stories, exaggerate accomplishments, or manipulate facts. This aims to create a false image of themselves. They lie very easily because they try so hard to maintain a carefully crafted image.
6. Lack of accountability
Taking responsibility for one's actions is a sign of maturity.
In contrast, hypocritical people often avoid accountability, shift blame onto others or make up excuses to absolve themselves of blame. Their inability to admit mistakes increasingly shows that they do not have sincerity.
7. Pretend
People who pretend tend to prioritize external appearance, possessions, or social status.
They may judge others based on external factors rather than trying to understand their true character. This shallow approach to life means they rarely have meaningful relationships.
8. Secret nature
Hypocrites often hide aspects of their lives. They may be very guarded about their past, true intentions, or even personal relationships. This secrecy aims to protect their carefully crafted image and prevent others from discovering their true nature.
9. Traitor
Hypocrites may be quick to betray or backstab those who trust them. They are opportunistic and will prioritize their interests over personal loyalties or values.
This untrustworthy behavior can cause damage to relationships and reputations.
10. Opportunistic view
Fake people often see relationships and interactions as opportunities for personal gain.
They approach friendships, and connections with ulterior motives, prioritizing what they can get over what they can give. This self-centered approach is detrimental to genuine human relationships.
11. Lack of self-awareness
Perhaps one of the most prominent characteristics of a hypocritical person is their lack of self-awareness. They may be completely unaware of their shortcomings, deceptive tendencies, or the impact their actions have on others.
This lack of introspection prevents greater personal growth and development.
12. Lack of boundaries
Hypocritical people often have poor boundaries and may violate personal space or overstep boundaries without considering other people's comfort or approval. They may ignore personal boundaries to get what they want or gain control over a situation.
13. Excessive praise
A common tactic used by hypocrites is excessive praise. They may shower others with compliments, but their praise feels insincere and excessive.
Their intentions are often to manipulate or gain favor rather than truly respecting others.
14. Seeking attention
They often crave constant attention and will go to great lengths to be the center of attention. They like to seek attention by telling excessive stories, being dramatic, or showing excessive emotions to draw attention to themselves.
15. Fickle loyalties
A hypocritical person's loyalty is often uncertain and situational. They may change sides or allegiance based on personal gain or convenience, rather than sincere principles or values. Such wishy-washy nature makes it difficult to trust their intentions and motives.
16. Unclear Personal History
Fakers often have unclear or inconsistent personal histories.
They may be evasive or provide incomplete information when asked about their background, accomplishments, or experience.
17. Excessive storytelling
Hypocritical individuals often embellish or exaggerate their stories and experiences to impress others or gain sympathy.
They may create or enhance details to appear more successful, attractive, or victimized. Their stories are hard to believe.
Those are 17 characteristics of hypocrites around us. By recognizing the characteristics, we can be careful not to use them for personal gain and prevent ourselves from feeling hurt.
Conclusion
These are some of the characteristics of the hypocrites that I could put down, off my head. Although they are the permanent characteristics of the hypocrites, some ordinary genuine Muslims may (in fact they do) possess some, but not all of them.
The difference between the hypocrites and the genuine Muslims when they portray some of these characteristics is that, the hypocrites portray them out of principles and beliefs. They have developed them as a result of their intention to cause corruption on earth. Whereby, the genuine Muslims do so out of weakness, and sometimes ignorance.
It’s worth mentioning, that the hypocrites can’t destroy the religion of Allāh. But they can negatively influence on my faith and yours as well. This influence is our tests, and we must pass the test.
The bad news is, we can’t eliminate them from amongst us. This is not because they possess power or authority (although they are powerful). It’s rather because their presence is part of our tests in this life. The best person who could have eliminated them was the Prophet Muhammad, ṣallā Allāhu ʿalaihi wa sallam, but Allāh didn’t enable him to do so. After all, how can you take some one out of Islam, when he claims to be a Muslim?
All we can do is to constantly pray to Allah, that He cleanses our hearts from hypocrisy and protects us and our loved ones from their evil doings.
May Allah guide us, and grant us more love for Him, love for those who love Him and love for the deeds that will bring us closer to His Love. Amīn.
