Parenting Perspective 

When one sibling lies to another, it can weaken their bond and create long-term resentment. Your role as a parent is to guide them through the process of repairing that trust, teaching them that relationships can recover even after a mistake. 

Acknowledge the Hurt and Hold Them Accountable 

First, acknowledge the feelings of the child who was lied to: ‘I can see that it was very hurtful when your brother was not truthful with you.’ This validates their feelings. Then, speak calmly but firmly to the child who lied: ‘Lying damages trust. To earn it back, you will need to be honest from now on.’ This makes it clear that trust is not automatic; it must be earned. 

Facilitate Apologies and Repair 

Encourage the child who lied to offer a sincere and direct apology. You can then guide them towards a restorative action, such as sharing a toy or helping with a chore. These concrete actions are what begin to rebuild the confidence between them over time. 

Teach That Rebuilding Trust Takes Time 

Explain to both children that while forgiveness can be given quickly, rebuilding trust requires consistent honesty. Encourage the wronged child to be patient, and remind the other that every truthful action is a step towards healing the relationship. This helps them to understand the long-term process of mending their bond. 

Spiritual Insight 

Reconciliation Brings Allah’s Mercy 

Islam emphasises both honesty and reconciliation. The Quran commands believers to make peace and restore brotherhood, reminding us that this is a virtuous act that invites the mercy of Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 10: 

‘Indeed, the believers are brothers (to each other); so, make peace with your brothers; and seek piety from Allah (Almighty) so that you may receive His Mercy.‘ 

Repairing Bonds Quickly is a Virtue 

The prophetic tradition teaches that leaving a relationship broken is discouraged in Islam. The believer who takes the first step to make peace and repair a bond is considered the better of the two, highlighting the virtue of reconciliation. 

It is recorded in Al Adab Al Mufrad, 399, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘It is not lawful for a Muslim to forsake his brother for more than three days, each turning away when they meet. The better of them is the one who initiates the greeting of peace.’ 

Truthfulness and Forgiveness Strengthen Love 

By linking the act of reconciliation to both family peace and Islamic values, you show your children that trust can be rebuilt. They learn that mistakes do not have to be the end of a relationship, and that honesty and forgiveness are the tools that strengthen their love for each other.