The Hypocrites

Abstract

The Qur’an makes many references to al-Munafiqin, or “the Hypocrites,” including the title of a surah (number sixty-three). The term has become prominent in Islamist extremist discourses. Aside from traditionally denoting a particular group in a specific time period, the master narrative of the Hypocrites contains a ruse story form where the true identity of an individual or group is hidden for the sake of worldly ends. It differs from a betrayal story form (see Chapter 6) in that a ruse story depicts an individual or group that is insincere and opportunistic, rather than being outright treasonous. But like a betrayal story, the motives, plots, and ploys of the imposters in the ruse story are foiled by archetypal heroes in the narrative.