Lie in Islam | Dangerous Sin 2023
In this article, we will mention how telling a lie in Islam is prohibited, the punishment for lying in Islam, what Quran and Hadith say in this regard, and much more. So stay with us, explore Islam, and try to become a better Muslim.
Every human living on this planet Earth, having basic common sense, knows and admits that lying is bad. Even though all religions teach not to lie and condemn lying, Islam is the second most followed religion in the world and prohibits humans from doing so. Lie in Islam is a sin; therefore, we have considered this topic for discussion today.
What is a lie?
A lie is a false statement that is contrary to the reality. It is commonly practiced to deceive someone. It can be adopted to avoid punishment, cause harm, protect someone, or gain benefits. However, it is an unethical behavior in our community.
What is a lie in Islam?
Islam is a religion of honesty and discourages telling a lie. In Islam, Muslims are prohibited from saying false statements and are expected to speak the truth. Moreover, the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was also named “Al-Sadiq – The Truthful” due to his honesty and truthfulness. This highlights that Prophet (PBUH) promoted truthfulness and avoid falsehood and deception.
Telling a lie is a sin
According to Al-Bayhaqiyy, “False testimony is a big sin”. Besides this, Quran also condemns lying.
In Surah Zumar, Allah says, “Those who lied about Allāh will have black faces on the day of Judgement”,
This condition defines that Muslims are not allowed to lie in any situation. Moreover, Allah (God) and His prophet (PBUH) dislike lying and encourage honesty and truthfulness.
Telling a Lie In Islam as a Joke
Some people lie as a joke or tell a lie and later, when caught, confess that it was a joke. Such acts are also prohibited in Islam. Various references can be cited to explain that Islam restricts lying either as a joke or as nonseriousness. Here are some examples to make it more clear.
Quoted in Al-Bayhaqiyy, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that lying is not good, whether in seriousness or joking.
Both these statements highlight that lying in Islam is strictly prohibited and considered a sin. Moving forward, we will explain how it is a sin and what punishments Islam has decided.
Punishment for lying in Islam
Quran has not stated any punishment for the liar. But one should remember that all our words are recorded, and a liar will be punished on the day of Judgement.
In addition, little lies can become a habit in the long run, and one who lies is not close to Allah. Therefore, stay away from false testimonies regardless of the fear of punishment but for the fear of Allah.
Lying is permissible
Lying is a sin because it leads a liar to hell. But there are some conditions where lying is permissible in Islam.
- A husband can speak a lie to make his wife happy. It might be appraisal words that you look beautiful, cooked well, I like when you smile, etc. Such words make his wife happy, leading to a stronger marital relationship.
- During the war, lies are allowed.
- To resolve a dispute between two or more parties. It will promote brotherhood and peace.
Impacts of Lying in our community
Lying is disliked by every normal human being. The liar and the one affected have adverse impacts of lying on their life. Here are some points that will help you understand the negativity of lies and liars.
- Damage trust The liar, when caught faces difficult circumstances where no one trusts him. It leads to a poor reputation, broken trust, serious consequences, and unhealthy personal and professional relationships.
- Guilt and health disturbance Lying leads to shame and guilt. It makes people difficult to sleep, face anxiety issues, and disturbs mental and physical health. Moreover, headaches and stomach issues are also observed.
- Crime and legal consequences Lying in professional workplaces may lead to legal consequences. Therefore, liars can be charged with perjury, fraud, or other crimes.
- Loss of respect Lying is a question mark for a believer, integrity, and moral values. The liar is asked about his moral and ethical values and religious beliefs. All such things make a liar lose his self-respect.
- Damage relationships Lying can impact personal and professional relationships. A liar finds it difficult to communicate with others, thus making it complex to resolve conflicts and disturbing work efficiency.
In conclusion, a liar makes surviving in the community hard and complex. Damaged personality, broken trusts, and unhealthy relationships are the major negative consequences of lying.
How to Repent For Lying in Islam?
Repentance or Toubah is the act of seeking forgiveness, trying to avoid such activities again, and not repeating them in the future. Here are some key points that one can follow to seek forgiveness from Allah Almighty.
Seek forgiveness from Allah, offer prayers and regret your sins, do good deeds and make a firm commitment to avoid lying in the future, apologize to those affected by your lie, try to recover their loss, and be positive in your future.
Also Read Punishment for Backbiting in Islam 2023
Conclusion
Lie in Islam is a sin; the one who lies is not a true believer. Both God and the prophet have condemned telling a lie. The punishment for a liar is that he will be in hell. Considering all the teachings of Islam, Muslims should avoid telling a lie and if done then seek forgiveness from Allah. No doubt, He is the most kind and merciful.