The Wise Do Not Lie – Truthfulness in the Light of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (as)

Introduction

The 20^th of Dhul-Hijjah marks the blessed birth anniversary of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (peace be upon him), the seventh Imam of the Ahlulbayt. Known for his unmatched patience, profound knowledge, and deep spirituality, Imam al-Kadhim left behind a treasury of wisdom for all generations. On this special occasion, we reflect on one of his powerful sayings that highlights the essential virtue of honesty. In a world where falsehood is often normalised or justified for personal or political gain, the Imam’s reminder is timeless and vital for our moral compass.

إِنَّ اَلْعَاقِلَ لاَ يَكْذِبُ وَ إِنْ كَانَ فِيهِ هَوَاهُ

“The wise person does not lie, even if it serves his personal desire.” (Bihār al-Anwār, vol. 1, p. 143)

Educational Lessons from the Hadith for Teenagers and Young Adults

1. Always be truthful, in every situation.

Truthfulness is not just about what we say –  it is about who we are. Being honest in class, online, with friends, and even with yourself builds integrity and trust. Imam al-Kadhim (as) reminds us that intelligence is linked to honesty. Wisdom means thinking long-term, not risking your character for temporary gain.

Challenge: Make it a goal this week to say the full truth in at least one situation where you’re tempted to hide part of it.

2. Don’t be fooled into lying for short-term benefit.

It’s easy to justify a lie when it gets you out of trouble or earns you something quickly. But the wise know that a lie, even if it helps in the moment, leads to long-term damage. The Imam’s words teach us to rise above short-term tricks. Honesty takes courage, it builds your future, and it enhances your trustworthiness.

Challenge: Think of one moment recently where you told a small lie – now ask yourself: was it really worth it?

3. Be Aware of Unconscious Lies in the Digital World

Sometimes lying doesn’t come through words; it can happen silently, even without us realising. For example, when you ‘like’ or share a post on social media, you are supporting and spreading that message. If the content is false or misleading, you’ve unknowingly participated in spreading a lie. In today’s world, where a large portion of online content is either false, biased, or incomplete, it’s more important than ever to think carefully before reacting. True wisdom is to pause, verify, and always stand by the truth.

Practical Challenge: Before liking, reposting, or commenting on anything online this week, ask yourself: “Is this true?” Make it a habit to critically fact-check before you click.

4. Lying weakens your self-respect.

Each lie chips away at your self-confidence and inner strength. A wise person knows that standing with the truth strengthens their soul. Over time, your honesty will shine through and earn you the respect of others – and yourself.

Challenge: Write down one example when you told the truth in a hard situation and reflect on how it made you feel.

5. Truth brings peace, while lies create anxiety.

Honesty simplifies life, while lies lead to more lies and stress. The Imam links wisdom to truth because a wise person values inner peace over temporary gain. Being truthful is freeing.

Challenge: This week, notice how you feel after telling the truth – compare that with how you feel after being dishonest.

6. Choose Long-Term Integrity Over Short-Term Wins

This hadith reminds us that short-term benefits gained through dishonesty are not worth the long-term cost to our character and reputation. In school, social settings, or online, it might be tempting to say something untrue to get approval, avoid blame, or gain quick advantage. But truth has lasting value, while lies often unravel and leave regret behind. Studies in psychology also show that people who practise honesty consistently experience less stress and stronger relationships over time.

Practical Challenge: This week, when faced with a situation where lying could make things easier, pause and choose truth instead. Reflect afterwards on how it made you feel and how others responded.

7. Don’t Be Fooled by Justifications

One of the biggest dangers in doing something wrong – like lying – is that it often comes with many convincing excuses and justifications. Our minds, and in truth, whispers from Shayṭān, are quick to offer reasons why a small lie is “necessary” or “harmless.” But as Imam Musa al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) said: “The wise person does not lie, even if it serves his personal desire.” These excuses are traps as they make what’s wrong seem right. True strength lies in recognising these justifications for what they are: distractions from honesty and integrity.

Practical Challenge: The next time you’re about to say something that isn’t fully true – especially to get out of trouble or impress someone – stop and ask yourself: “Am I being guided by reason or by excuse?” Write down one moment this week where you chose truth over convenience.

Educational Lessons from the Hadith for Parents

1. Nurture Intellect Over Impulse

As parents, one of your greatest responsibilities is to nurture the intellect (‘aql) of your children and help them develop sound reasoning that governs their emotions. While emotions are a natural and important part of life, they can often lead to misjudgements – especially when decisions are made impulsively. The teaching of the Hadith above from Imam Musa al-Kadhim (as) reminds us that it is not emotional desires, but rational judgement, that should guide moral behaviour. A child who is taught to think critically and morally will learn that truthfulness matters, even when lying seems easier or more beneficial in the moment.

Practical Challenge: This week, have a meaningful conversation with your children about a time when you or they faced a difficult decision — and explore together how intellect, not emotion, helped reach the right choice. Encourage them to always pause and reflect before reacting.

2. Teach your children the true meaning of honesty.

Truthfulness means that the heart, tongue, and actions all align. Explain to your children that Islam encourages sincerity, not just avoiding lies. When parents model honesty, children learn to do the same.

Challenge: Use a story this week (from your own life or Islamic history) to teach your children what true honesty looks like.

3. Be a role model in honesty.

Children imitate what they see. If they observe honesty in your speech, transactions, and relationships, it will influence their own behaviour. Your truthfulness – even in small things – sets a standard for them.

Challenge: Reflect on one area where you’ve recently cut corners in honesty — and commit to correcting it in front of your children if appropriate.

Educational Lessons from the Hadith for Imams and Religious Leaders

1. Share real stories from history about the outcomes of honesty and dishonesty.

Bring to life examples from the lives of the Prophets, Imams, and companions who embodied truthfulness. Equally, warn of the downfall of those who embraced lies. These stories leave a lasting impression on listeners.

Challenge: In your next khutbah or lesson, include a real account of how truth brought blessings or how lies brought disgrace.

2. Remind the community that true Shi‘ism is not in name, but in action.

Being a follower of Ahlulbayt means walking their path, not just wearing their identity. Imam al-Kadhim (as) teaches that wisdom is expressed in moral choices and truthfulness is at the core of that path.

Challenge: Begin a sermon or talk with this hadith and ask the congregation to reflect on whether their actions reflect the values they profess.