about what you did and ask him to pardon you—unless you fear that telling him would bring about an even greater harm. In that event it may be enough for you to seek Allah’s forgiveness for him, praise him, and mention the good traits he genuinely has, so that Allah may forgive you.

***
Perjury

Question: A friend asked me to testify with him in court so that he could obtain a title-deed for his house. I accompanied him to the court, and when we stood before the judge I was surprised to hear the previous witnesses state that the owner had possessed the house for sixteen years, whereas in fact he has owned it for only six. I found myself in an awkward position; I did not want to contradict their testimony and thereby complicate the issuance of the deed, so I testified that the earlier witnesses’ statement was correct. Does this count as false testimony, and what is the expiation for it? Please note that no one disputes his ownership of the house—the only difference concerns the length of time. Kindly advise me, and may Allah reward you.

Answer: You were wrong to act in this manner, for you failed to state the truth in your testimony. You agreed with them while knowing they were mistaken; this is considered false testimony. You must now set the matter straight. Allah, Exalted is He, says: “O you who believe, stand firm for Allah as witnesses in justice” (al-Mā’idah 5:8), and He says: “Stand firm for justice, as witnesses for Allah, even against yourselves, your parents, and close relatives. Whether the person is rich or poor, Allah is worthier of both. So do not follow desire, lest you deviate; and if you twist the truth or refuse to testify, then Allah is fully aware of what you do” (al-Nisāʾ 4:135). Therefore, you are obliged to disclose the truth in this situation.