What is Lying?

What is the Islamic perspective on lying?

"Lying is the opposite of truthfulness. Islam regards lying as the worst of bad habits.

In some ayahs, the holy Quran expresses “kufr” (disbelief) using the word “kizb” (lying). In this case, the word “liar” denotes “infidel”.

In the following verse, “lying” refers to blasphemy.

"Who is then more unjust than he who utters a lie against Allah and (he who) gives the lie to the truth when it comes to him; is there not in hell an abode for the unbelievers?" (Az-Zumar, 32)

"The messenger of Allah (pbuh) states that even the people who commit a serious crime deserving “hadd punishment” (pre-established punishment found in the Qur’an) such as theft, adultery and use of alcohol may have a chance to go to heaven. However, he (pbuh) defines lying as much more deceitful and worse than the aforementioned major sins. Lying is declared to be a despicable sin, a terrible vise.”  (Kimya-e Saadat)

Allah (swt) forbids lying in the Qur'an

"That (shall be so); and whoever respects the sacred ordinances of Allah, it is better for him with his Lord; and the cattle are made lawful for you, except that which is recited to you, therefore avoid the uncleanness of the idols and avoid false words." (Al-Hajj, 30)

"And do not mix up the truth with the falsehood, nor hide the truth while you know (it)." (Al-Baqarah, 42)

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was asked: "Can a believer be a coward?" The Prophet said: "Yes." He was then asked: "Can a believer be a miser?" He replied: "Yes." And finally, he was asked: 'Can a believer be a liar?" The Prophet said: "No." (Al-Muwatta)