Parenting Perspective 

When one child repeatedly lies about their sibling, it can create deep mistrust within the family. This behaviour often stems from jealousy or a desire for attention. A parent’s response must be a careful balance of fairness, correction, and reassurance for both children. 

Investigate Before Reacting and Address the Lie Directly 

It is crucial not to punish the accused child immediately. Instead, calmly listen to both sides of the story and look for inconsistencies. If you confirm that one child has lied, address it firmly but without anger: ‘Lying about your sister is not acceptable, and it makes it very difficult to trust what you say.’ Make the consequence clear so they understand that dishonesty does not lead to a positive outcome. 

Teach Healthier Ways to Seek Attention 

Often, this behaviour is a sign that the child feels overlooked. It is important to give them positive attention through one-on-one time or by praising their good behaviour. This teaches them that they do not need to resort to negative tactics to be noticed and valued in the family. 

Reinforce the Value of Truth in Sibling Relationships 

You can also explain that honesty is what keeps the bond between siblings strong. Remind them that while a lie might seem to work in the short term, it always damages relationships in the long run. By handling the situation with consistency, you protect the innocent child while guiding the other towards healthier and more honest habits. 

Spiritual Insight 

Spreading Falsehoods is a Grave Matter 

Islam strongly warns against making false accusations, as they destroy trust and justice. The Quran teaches that spreading a lie, even if it seems insignificant to us, can be a tremendous sin in the sight of Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Noor (24), Verse 15: 

‘When you started discussing this matter, with your (unrestrained) tongues; and started spreading the gossip about matters of which you had no knowledge; and you thought that (such gossip) was insignificant, while in the Judgment of Allah (Almighty) such matters were deemed of great importance.’ 

Inventing Lies is the Gravest Falsehood 

The prophetic tradition describes inventing a lie about something one has not seen as one of the gravest forms of falsehood. This highlights the seriousness of making things up to harm another person’s reputation. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, 843, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The gravest falsehood is that a man claims to have seen something while he has not seen it.’ 

Truthfulness is the Foundation of Trust 

By grounding your approach in fairness and faith, you teach your children that truthfulness is the foundation of strong family ties and is beloved by Allah. They will learn over time that honesty brings security and love, while falsehood only leads to harm and mistrust.