Is it always necessary to speak the truth?

In the rich and profound teachings of Islam, truthfulness and honesty (صدق - Sidq) hold an extremely high and central position. The Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explicitly emphasize the fundamental importance of truthfulness in all aspects of life, considering it a sign of faith, piety, and ultimate salvation. Speaking the truth and avoiding falsehood is the cornerstone of a Muslim's ethical framework and a healthy society. Allah Almighty, in numerous verses, calls upon believers to be truthful and presents His prophets as role models of truthfulness. Truthfulness manifests not only in speech but also in actions, intentions, and the covenants made with God and people, reflecting the integrity of an individual's character. A truthful person gains trust and respect in this world and will receive divine reward in the Hereafter. Truthfulness means stating facts as they are, without distortion or concealment. This principle is so vital that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated: “Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. And indeed, a person keeps on telling the truth until he is recorded with Allah as a truthful person. Lying leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Hellfire. And indeed, a person keeps on lying until he is recorded with Allah as a liar.” However, the core question is whether this principle is absolute and without any exceptions. Is it necessary to utter the entire truth in every situation, without considering the consequences? Islam's answer to this question, while considering wisdom (Hikmah) and benefit (Maslahah), is more nuanced and comprehensive. Islam is a religion of life and practice; it does not merely state rigid principles but also pays attention to the practical implications and effects of its rulings. In certain specific and exceptional circumstances, where a greater objective such as preserving life, fostering peace, or preventing immense harm and discord is at stake, silence, or even the use of ambiguous speech (Tawriyah) – where the literal meaning is true but the listener perceives a different meaning – or, in rare cases, a 'white lie' (a lie for a good purpose or maslahati lie) may be permissible. These exceptions are not meant to justify everyday lying or personal concealment, but rather to alleviate necessity and achieve a higher benefit that outweighs the harm of speaking the full truth in that specific situation. For instance, the primary objectives of Sharia are to preserve five essential things: religion, life, intellect, progeny, and wealth. If speaking a truth were to jeopardize one of these principles, such as the life of an innocent person, then the ruling changes. Among the most significant exceptions is 'Islaah Dhat al-Bayn' (reconciliation between disputing parties). Islam strongly emphasizes unity and harmony within society and condemns discord. In situations where, to reconcile two people who are estranged, it becomes necessary to say something that is not precisely the full truth – for example, conveying positive remarks about one party to the other that may not have been explicitly stated – this act is not only not a sin but is considered praiseworthy and beloved by Allah. This demonstrates that the noble goal of peace and removing ill-will can take precedence over the absolute principle of truthfulness. Another instance is preserving the life, honor, or property of a Muslim, where speaking the truth about it would lead to irreparable harm. For example, if an oppressor is searching for an individual and asks you for their whereabouts, concealing the truth or even misleading the oppressor to protect that individual's life is not only permissible but considered obligatory. Similarly, in times of war and confrontation with the enemy, employing stratagems and statements whose superficial meaning is not the full truth, for the sake of victory and preserving Muslim lives, is permissible. These cases all fall under the category of 'maslahati lie' (lie for a good purpose) or 'Tawriyah,' which differs from a sinful lie. Tawriyah means speaking in a way that the listener understands a particular meaning, while the speaker intends another meaning that is also truthful. This method is often used to avoid outright lying and is recommended in situations where absolute truthfulness would lead to significant harm. Tawriyah is different from lying because, in Tawriyah, one aspect of the statement aligns with reality, even if the listener is unaware of that aspect. These exceptional cases are subject to very strict conditions and are permitted only in situations of necessity and for a public or individual interest whose preservation is deemed higher than absolute truthfulness. The purpose of these exceptions is not to violate the principle of truthfulness but to preserve higher and more important principles emphasized by the sacred lawgiver, such as the preservation of life, honor, societal unity, and the prevention of discord and corruption. Therefore, Islam, with a realistic and wise perspective on the complexities of human life, alongside its unequivocal emphasis on truthfulness as a fundamental virtue, also provides solutions for exceptional situations to prevent greater harms. The crucial point is that one must always have good intentions and not misuse these exceptions, as the general and overarching principle is always truthfulness, which leads to individual and societal peace and well-being. Ultimately, speaking the truth is always commendable, but with wisdom and prudence, to prevent a greater harm and achieve a greater good. This divine wisdom defines the boundary between unavailing truth and purposeful silence or expedient speech, guiding humanity on the correct path of life.