An inquiry was submitted concerning the Islamic ruling on lying in cases of necessity. Dr. Ahmed Wissam, a fatwa secretary, explained that the general principle is that lying is not permissible, except in certain limited circumstances recognized in Islamic teachings.
He clarified that these exceptions do not constitute a general permission to deceive or mislead others. Rather, they concern specific situations in which a legitimate benefit is intended or harm is prevented.
Is Lying Permitted to Reconcile People?
Dr. Ahmed Wissam explained that speech intended to reconcile people is among the situations in which an exception has been reported.
The purpose is to end disputes, bring people closer together, and restore harmony between those who are in conflict. This does not mean that lying should become a normal method of dealing with others.
Is Lying Between Spouses Permitted?
The fatwa secretary also explained that an exception applies to certain speech between spouses when the purpose is to improve their relationship and strengthen affection.
Examples may include kind praise from a husband to his wife or reassuring words from a wife to her husband that contribute to marital harmony.
However, this exception does not include statements that result in the loss of rights or cause harm to the other spouse.
The Three Reported Exceptions
Dr. Ahmed Wissam stated that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ identified three situations in which an exception to the general prohibition was reported:
- Reconciliation between people.
- War.
- Speech between spouses intended to improve their relationship.
He cited the narration of Umm Kulthum bint Uqbah, may Allah be pleased with her, who reported that she heard the Prophet ﷺ permit lying in these three situations.
When Is Lying Prohibited?
The fatwa secretary emphasized that lying that conceals rights or causes serious harm to others does not fall within the recognized exceptions.
Muslims should therefore strive to be truthful and avoid situations that may lead them to lie. When appropriate, indirect wording may be used to achieve a legitimate purpose without causing injustice or harm.
Advice for Giving Up Sins
Dr. Ahmed Wissam also highlighted several practices that can help a person abandon sins and remain firm in repentance.
Among the most important is striving against the self and resisting temptations that may lead a person back to sinful behavior.
This requires self-discipline, strengthening one's resolve, and making a conscious effort not to return to harmful habits.
Avoiding the Causes of Sin
One important way to remain firm in repentance is to avoid anything that could lead a person back to sin, including harmful environments, negative influences, or places associated with sinful behavior.
Ending relationships that encourage sinful actions can also help a person change harmful habits and distance themselves from the causes of wrongdoing.
Remaining Consistent in Good Deeds
The fatwa secretary emphasized the importance of maintaining good deeds and acts of worship, including Quran recitation, attending religious lessons, remembering Allah, and performing congregational prayer.
Such practices can strengthen the heart and determination while helping a person remain committed to repentance and obedience.
How Can a Muslim Remain Firm in Repentance?
Self-accountability and awareness of Allah can help strengthen a person's commitment to repentance. Remembering the reward prepared for those who repent can also encourage continued commitment.
Maintaining good deeds and staying away from the causes of sin can provide greater spiritual stability and inner peace, helping a person continue on the path of obedience.
What is the Islamic ruling on lying?
The general rule is that lying is prohibited, with limited exceptions connected to legitimate circumstances.
When is lying permitted?
The reported exceptions include reconciliation between people, war, and speech between spouses intended to improve their relationship.
Is lying between spouses permitted?
It may be permitted when it serves affection and reconciliation, but it does not include lying that violates rights or causes harm.
Is lying to reconcile people permitted?
Speech intended to reconcile people is among the reported exceptions when it serves the purpose of ending disputes and restoring harmony.
How can a person remain firm in repentance?
By striving against the self, avoiding the causes of sin and harmful companionship, and maintaining Quran recitation, prayer, remembrance of Allah, and other good deeds.
