Lying (Taqiyya) in Islamic Doctrine

An Evidence-Based Analysis

Taqiyya (تقية) is a concept in Islamic jurisprudence that permits lying or concealing one’s beliefs under specific circumstances. This doctrine is most commonly associated with Shia Islam, but it has also been recognized by some Sunni scholars in certain situations.

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1. Quranic Basis for Taqiyya:

• Quran 3:28:
  "Let not the believers take disbelievers as allies instead of the believers. And whoever [does that] has nothing with Allah, except when taking precaution against them in prudence..."

  • This verse allows Muslims to show outward friendliness or allegiance to non-Muslims if they fear harm.

• Quran 16:106:
  "Whoever disbelieves in Allah after his belief, except for one who is forced while his heart is secure in faith..."

  • This verse explicitly permits a Muslim to deny their faith under compulsion (to save their life) as long as their inner belief remains unchanged.

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2. Hadith Basis:

• Sahih Bukhari (Volume 5, Book 59, Hadith 369):

  • Ammar ibn Yasir, one of Muhammad's companions, was tortured by the Meccans and forced to curse Muhammad.

  • When he returned to Muhammad in tears, the Prophet told him:
    "If they do it again, you may do the same."

• Sunan Abu Dawood (Hadith 4873):

  • Muhammad said: "War is deceit."

  • This establishes the permissibility of deception in warfare.

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3. Definition and Application of Taqiyya:

• Taqiyya (Shia Islam): Primarily a doctrine of the Shia sect, developed due to historical persecution by Sunni rulers.

  • It allows Shia Muslims to hide their beliefs to avoid persecution or death.

  • Recognized in the Ja'fari school of jurisprudence (main Shia school).

• Tawriya (Sunni Islam): A related concept of using ambiguous language or misleading statements without directly lying.

  • For example, if asked directly if one is a Muslim, a Sunni in danger may say, "I follow the truth," which is technically correct without revealing their faith.

• General Permissibility (Sunni Islam): While not officially called "Taqiyya," Sunni scholars allow lying in three cases (Hadith in Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah):

  1. In war.

  2. To reconcile between two people.

  3. Between husband and wife (to maintain harmony).

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4. Historical Development of Taqiyya:

• Shia Islam:

  • Developed during periods of severe persecution by Sunni caliphates, such as the Umayyads and Abbasids.

  • Shia Muslims were forced to hide their beliefs to survive, making Taqiyya a practical necessity.

• Sunni Islam:

  • Although less emphasized, the concept is also recognized in specific situations (war, danger, reconciliation).

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5. Logical Justification for Taqiyya:

• Self-Preservation: A person is not obligated to openly profess their faith if it would lead to torture, death, or severe harm.

• Warfare and Strategy: Deception is seen as a legitimate tool in war, just as in standard military tactics.

• Diplomatic Flexibility: Allows Muslims to navigate hostile environments without risking their lives.

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6. Misunderstandings About Taqiyya:

• Not a License for General Lying:

  • Taqiyya is permitted only under specific circumstances (danger, persecution, warfare).

  • It is not a general permission for deceit in all matters.

• Not Limited to Shia Islam:

  • Although primarily a Shia doctrine, it is also recognized in Sunni jurisprudence under different names (Tawriya, deception in war).

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7. Controversies Surrounding Taqiyya:

• Critics argue that Taqiyya can be used to justify dishonesty in interfaith dialogue, diplomacy, or religious debate.

• Islamic scholars counter that Taqiyya is a defensive measure, not a strategy for general deception.

• Contradictions arise when the concept is expanded beyond its original context, leading to accusations of dishonesty.