The Torah instructs us: “You shall not lie to one another” (Leviticus 19:11). Elsewhere in the Torah it is stated: “You shall distance yourself from falsehood” (Exodus 23:7). This verse teaches that telling a lie is something that must be avoided in and of itself, even if this is unrelated to the actual deception of someone.

Nevertheless, there are cases in which it is permitted to deviate from the truth. In certain situations, it is even a mitzva to refrain from telling the truth. Examples of these cases include the following:

It is permitted to lie when telling the truth is apt to cause unnecessary friction between two people.

It is permitted to “adjust” the truth and present the facts in a somewhat inaccurate manner in order to spare someone from grief.

A humble person may conceal his knowledge or good deeds from those around him.

It is sometimes permitted to conceal the truth regarding intimate matters, in order to protect people’s privacy.