“There is nothing more sinful than untruthfulness. Because of this, mother earth once said,’I can bear any heavy thing except a person who is a liar.’ ” (Srimad-Bhagavatam 8.20.4)

Truthfulness is mentioned in the Srimad-Bhagavtam as the last leg of religion remaining in Kali Yuga. During the early days of Kali Yuga (5000 years ago) truthfulness was maximum in potency. Most people were truthful when saintly King Maharaja Parikshit was the ruler. Under his rule everything was going on smoothly. Law and order was maintained and people were truthful. But after his passing (5000 years ago), truthfulness has been diminishing daily.

“Śukadeva Gosvāmī said: Then, O King, religion, truthfulness, cleanliness, tolerance, mercy, duration of life, physical strength and memory will all diminish day by day because of the powerful influence of the Age of Kali.” (Srimad-Bhagavatam 12.2.1)

Truthfulness is the first and most important pillar of Sanatan-Dharma. One must never lie, deceive, mislead, nor cheat anyone.

“Satyamev Jayate” means “Truth Alone Triumphs”. This is the logo of India. 

If someone asks you a question and you do not know or are not sure, simply say ‘I don’t know’. Making things up is simply lying.

Some people are accustomed to speaking so many lies. They do not realize that no one is free from the sinful reactions of being untruthful. All liars will have to suffer and pay for their sins, either in this life or the next.

If someone lies once, they will have to lie at least 10 times to cover up the first lie. So why not be honest in the first place?

Always speak the truth
Always stand up for the truth
Always side with the truth
Never break a vow. Breaking vows is lying
Never make things up. Making things up is lying
If asked, tell the whole story. Hiding information is lying