Suppose a person heard something about one of the Ansār that would warrant (1) hating him, and therefore hated him. He would be misguided and mistaken, but would not thereby be a hypocrite. Likewise, a person who formed an incorrect belief about one of the Companions, thinking him an unbeliever or a flagrant sinner, and hated him on that account, would be ignorant and unjust, but not a hypocrite.

This also demonstrates the falsity of what is reported from some of the Companions, such as Jābir, who is said to have stated:

“We did not recognize the hypocrites during the lifetime of the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—except by their hatred of Alī ibn Abī Tālib.”

For this exclusive claim is one of the most blatant falsehoods. The falsity of such a denial could not escape [ordinary people, let alone could anything of the sort escape] (2) Jābir or anyone like him.

For Allah has mentioned in Sūrat al-Tawbah and elsewhere numerous signs and characteristics of the hypocrites, none of which is hatred of Alī. Such as His words (3):

“Among them is one who says, ‘Grant me leave, and do not expose me to temptation.’ Surely, they have already fallen into temptation.” [Sūrat al-Tawbah: 49].

And His words:

“Among them are those who criticize you concerning the alms. If they are given some of it, they are pleased; but if they are given none, they at once become resentful.” [Sūrat al-Tawbah: 58].

And His words:

“Among them are those who offend the Prophet and say, ‘He listens to everyone.’ Say, ‘His listening is good for you. He believes in Allah.’” [Sūrat al-Tawbah: 61].

And His words:

“Among them are those who made a covenant with Allah: ‘If He gives us from His bounty, we will surely give in charity and surely be among the righteous.’”