Falsehood

In the Bible, falsehood generally refers to deception, lies, or anything that distorts the truth. The concept of falsehood is closely linked to the character of God, who is identified as the ultimate source of truth (John 14:6). In contrast, falsehood is often associated with sin and the nature of Satan, who is described as the "father of lies" (John 8:44). The Hebrew term for falsehood, "שָׁקֶר" (sheqer), signifies not only lying but also the broader idea of deceitfulness or unreliability (Proverbs 12:22). Throughout Scripture, falsehood is condemned as it leads to division, destruction, and a breakdown of trust within communities. For example, the ninth commandment instructs believers not to bear false witness against their neighbors (Exodus 20:16), highlighting the moral imperative to speak truthfully. In the New Testament, falsehood takes on a more spiritual dimension, where believers are urged to put away falsehood and speak truthfully to one another, as they are members of one body (Ephesians 4:25). Ultimately, falsehood is seen as incompatible with the life and teachings of Jesus, who invites believers to live in the light of truth (1 John 1:5-7).