Lying
In the Bible, lying is generally considered a serious moral failing and is often associated with deceit, falsehood, and the violation of truth. The Hebrew term for lying, "שָׁקֶר" (sheqer), signifies falsehood or deception, while the Greek term "ψεύδος" (pseudos) carries a similar connotation. The Ninth Commandment explicitly prohibits bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16), emphasizing the importance of truthfulness in interpersonal relationships and communal integrity. Proverbs 12:22 states, "The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy," highlighting the moral and spiritual implications of lying in the eyes of God.Lying is also depicted as a characteristic of the devil in John 8:44, where Jesus states that the devil "was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." This association of lying with evil underscores its spiritual consequences. In contrast, the Bible encourages believers to embrace truthfulness as a reflection of God's nature, as seen in Ephesians 4:25, which instructs Christians to "put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor." Ultimately, biblical teachings on lying serve to promote honesty, integrity, and a commitment to truth in both personal and communal life.