5. Lying as a Joke or to Conceal a Surprise

Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchot Bein Adam L’Chaveiro

1.     Lying in cases where no harm or significant consequences result from the falsehood is less problematic than the cases discussed in the previous post. Nevertheless, one should strive to never lie even in such cases wherever possible (Mesilat Yesharim, ch.11; see also Tzitz Eliezer 15:12). If necessary, it is preferable to use wording that is not an outright lie but can be understood in multiple ways, some of which are true (this will be discussed further in a later post). (Halichot Bein Adam L’chavero 20:17)

2.        Based on this principle, one should try to avoid an outright lie when planning a surprise party for a relative or friend, but lying would not be forbidden in such a case. The same would apply when making a brief joke for which there are no consequences (Halichot Bein Adam L’chavero 20:17; R. Shlomo Aviner, Piskei Shlomo). Others rule more strictly. (Titen Emet L’yaakov p.176)