The Many Pretenders of Faith [Munafiqun]

It is reported that Al-Ḥasan Al-Baṣrī – Allāh have mercy on him – used to say, “If it were not for the munāfiqūn, you would feel all alone in the streets (the streets would be empty).”

It is also reported that Al-Sha’bī – Allāh have mercy on him – said the same thing, “If it were not for the munāfiqūn, you would feel all alone in the streets (the streets would be empty).” It is reported that Mālik b. Dīnār – Allāh’s mercy be upon him – said, “I swear, if the munāfiqūn started growing tails, the believers wouldn’t find a spot of ground to walk on.”

Ibn Battah, Al-Ibānah Al-Kubrā articles 936-938.