is the mufti’s communication of Allah’s ruling. Truthfulness is also the cornerstone of transactions, in which each party informs the other about the condition of his goods, and of dreams, concerning which it has been said:

“Those whose dreams are truest are those most truthful in speech.”

In relating dreams, a person is trusted to report what he has seen.

Ninth: Truthfulness and lying distinguish the believer from the hypocrite, as stated in the report: “Lying is the foundation upon which hypocrisy is built.” The two authentic collections relate from Anas that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies; when he promises, he breaks his promise; and when he is entrusted with something, he betrays that trust.”

Another hadith states:

“A believer may be naturally disposed to any character trait except treachery and lying.”

Allah describes the hypocrites as liars in numerous places in the Quran. It is well known that the believers are the people of Paradise, whereas the hypocrites are the people of the Fire, in its lowest depths.

Tenth: Knowledgeable spiritual masters agree that the foundation of the path to Allah is truthfulness and sincerity. Allah brings the two together in His words:

“Avoid false speech, being sincerely devoted to Allah, associating no partners with Him.”

The texts of the Book and the Sunnah, together with the consensus of the Muslim community, attest to this in many places, as in His words, Most High:

“O you who believe, fear Allah and be with the truthful.”

And His words, Most High:

“So who is more unjust than one who lies about Allah and rejects the truth when it comes to him? Is there not in Hell a dwelling