What is the ruling on jesting that does not involve lying and aims to bring joy, and what is the interpretation of the Hadith: "Indeed, a man may utter a word, not intending any harm by it, except to make people laugh, yet he falls thereby further than what is between the heavens and the earth"? Does this include jesting with truth? And what is the authenticity of that? And what is the interpretation of the Hadith: "Do not dispute with your brother, nor joke with him, nor promise him a promise and then break it"? And what is the ruling on jesting between spouses and children?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Joking is permissible in principle, as long as it does not involve lying or harming people. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, used to joke but would only speak the truth. However, excessive joking and constantly engaging in it is disliked, because it may distract one from the remembrance of Allah and His worship, and it can lead to hardness of heart and loss of respect. Joking is recommended if it serves a benefit, such as cheering up the interlocutor. Permissible joking includes playful interaction with family and children.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/104891