Sunni Man, I'm caught in a bit of a quandry. You know as well as I that some followers of Mohammad believe (based on their interpretation of the Koran) that since I am an infidel (non-believer), it is acceptable to lie to me, cheat me, steal from me, kill me and/or all the above.
Not being able to read you mind or judge your heart how do I know you are not one of these? If you tell me you're not how can I believe you? You understand my dilemma.
Good question Ringel05
There is alot of misinformation on the subject. So I will explain it as best as I can.
First of all, lying iin general is not condoned in Islam.
The Quran says, "Truly Allah guides not one who transgresses and lies." Surah 40:28.
Also, Mohammed was quoted as saying, "Be honest because honesty leads to goodness, and goodness leads to Paradise. Beware of falsehood because it leads to immorality, and immorality leads to Hell."
So if I conduct business and don't tell customers the truth. That is lying and unislamic.
The type of lying that people accuse muslims of engaging in is called "taqiyya".
And claim that muslims are told to lie about everything; especially to non muslims.
Here is the 3 instances that a muslims can use taqiyya. (tell a lie)
Again, only these 3 are allowed in Islam.
1) during a time of war or to save your life or the lives of others
example: when captured by the enemy, you can give false information.
2) for reconciliation between people; i.e trying to settle a dispute between friends.
3) to you spouce to keep the peace. Like if your wife says "does this make me look fat"? (you can answer "No" reguardless of reality)
I hope this helps and answers your question.