IS IT ALRIGHT TO TELL A WELL-MEANING LIE?
Question: I have a question about not telling lies. Assuming one’s spouse strongly opposes the idea of practising Buddhism. When performing life liberation or other meritorious deeds, if asked by the other half, the Buddhist practitioner may give excuses to disguise the truth. Is this considered lying?
Answer: A lie is a lie. Although this type of lie is way better than those that cause harm to others, there is still a need to repent. However, the negative karma can be easily eliminated through repentance. After all, his intention was good, and hence, it will be treated with leniency, but it is still considered lying. For that, it will not develop into a karmic obstacle.
Question: Another example is about our vegetarianism practice. Out of our concern that others may badmouth our practice, we may claim to have a bad digestive system and hence, are unable to consume non-vegetarian food.
Answer: That’s fine as long as you make it known to Bodhisattva, and it will not be regarded as a major lie.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 65), 26 November 2013
< About Spiritual Cultivation