This indicates that truthfulness is of tremendous importance and that it is the very basis upon which Allah, Mighty and Majestic, bestows reward.

Therefore we must speak the truth, strive to be truthful, remain frank, and never conceal matters from others out of flattery or ostentation.

Many people, when asked about something they have done that displeases them, lie and say, “I did not do it.”

Why is that? Do you feel ashamed before people yet dare to confront the Creator with a lie? Speak the truth and pay no heed to anyone. If you train yourself to be truthful, in time your condition will improve; but if you persist in lying, hiding matters and deceiving people, you will remain astray. When you choose the truth, you set your course and your method aright.

So hold fast to truthfulness in matters that advantage you and in those that count against you, that you may be among the truthful whom Allah has commanded you to accompany: “O you who believe! Fear Allah and be with the truthful” (al-Tawbah: 119).

54 — Ibn Masʿud—may Allah be pleased with him—reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man continues to speak the truth until he is recorded with Allah as a truthful one. Lying leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to …”