May a Muslim work as a diplomat if the job requires lying?

A Muslim may not lie, even as a diplomat. In conflicts, however, he may act wisely and keep his intentions to himself without saying a single untrue word, and whoever masters this can do the job.

Diplomats have a reputation for not always telling the truth. When a government wants to keep something secret and a journalist asks about it, a lie seems the easiest way out. For a Muslim, that way is closed. Lying is forbidden in Islam, no matter whom one works for.

There is only one exception, and it is very narrow. The second verse above speaks of people under persecution so severe that they can no longer bear it. Allah forgives them, even though He expects higher things of His servants. An ordinary profession, however, is no such hardship.

Not saying everything is a different matter. In wars and in serious confrontations between states, one may act with skill. One may allow an impression to form or keep an intention hidden, as long as no untrue word is spoken. This is permitted only in conflicts and only in the interest of one’s own country.

The second hadith above shows what this looks like. When the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) set out on a campaign, he usually did not reveal his real destination and made it seem as though he was heading in another direction. Yet he spoke no lie. He simply kept silent about what the enemy was not meant to know.

So a Muslim can become a diplomat. It takes skill, patience and firm principles. Faced with an awkward question, he can stay silent, steer away from it or say that he is not able to comment. But he may not tell a lie.