336. Lying to avoid being a part of evil deeds.

In this verse (37:89) of the Quran it is mentioned as Prophet Ibrahim saying “I am sick”.

Prophet Muhammad has explained these words are lies Prophet Ibrahim uttered for sake of Almighty God.(Hadith Book Muslim:4726)

We understand from this hadith, though he was not sick, Prophet Ibrahim for the sake of Almighty said so.

In order not to take part in evil acts, such lying is not considered a crime.

The people who hate evil are subjected to this kind unavoidable circumstances.

For example, there could be a girl well entrenched in Islamic ideology, her husband at the same time not so adherent of Islamic principles, forces her to attend a marriage performed with the groom accepting dowry. In such circumstances if she avoids the marriage function by lying about her health would not amount to a crime being committed by her, rather an act emulating Prophet Ibrahim.

A male youth, relying on his father for all his needs with no other option, if forced to take part in un Islamic activities at home, can suitably lie to his father to avoid himself being a part of the event. This would not amount to a crime being committed by him and would stand as an emulation of Prophet Ibrahim.

When we are offered eatables after a puja is performed, we can refuse it after due explanation or in case we feel it might give rise to communal tension we can avoid it by lying, or get it with hatred in mind and avoid eating it.

On the whole, if there is a possibility to avoid prohibited unIslamic food or acts, it can be done the way Prophet Ibrahim has shown us.

Please refer to explanation points 162, 236 to know more