In Islam, keeping secrets and fulfilling trusts (Amanah) is a sign of faith and integrity. A Muslim must never betray the confidence of another, whether personal, financial, or spiritual.
Allah says in the Qur'an:
إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَن تُؤَدُّوا الْأَمَانَاتِ إِلَىٰ أَهْلِهَا
"Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due..."
— Surah An-Nisa (4:58)
The Prophet ﷺ warned about betrayal of secrets:
"إِذَا حَدَّثَ الرَّجُلُ الْحَدِيثَ ثُمَّ الْتَفَتَ فَهِيَ أَمَانَةٌ"
"When a man speaks to another and then turns away, it becomes a trust (not to be disclosed)."
— Sunan Abu Dawud (4868)
The Sahaba were known for their strict observance of amanah. Hudhayfah ibn al-Yaman (RA) was famously called the "keeper of the Prophet's secrets" because he was entrusted with the names of the hypocrites — and never disclosed them, even under pressure.
Betraying a trust is a sign of hypocrisy. The Prophet ﷺ said:
"آيَةُ الْمُنَافِقِ ثَلَاثٌ... وَإِذَا اؤْتُمِنَ خَانَ"
"The signs of a hypocrite are three... and when he is entrusted, he betrays the trust."
— Sahih al-Bukhari (33)
Fulfilling amanah strengthens community, nurtures respect, and is a gateway to Jannah.