The Ruling on Jokes, Anecdotes, and Wit

Question:
May Allah reward you with good, and may He do you good. Our sister asks another question, saying: We always hear some people telling jokes. Is this forbidden, since it involves lying?

Answer:
There is nothing wrong with it within limits. That is, mentioning jokes, anecdotes, and light humor that relieves the mind and the people present and removes awkwardness from hearts is something with which there is no problem. However, if it exceeds the extent of need, occupies time, and is considered a characteristic of the person—that he is one who jokes a lot and is excessive—then it is not permissible. There is a warning in the Shari'ah evidence and in the poetry and judgment of the Arabs against excessive joking and excessive frivolity, because the command of the Muslim is seriousness and firmness. But there is nothing wrong with anecdotes and light humor that relieves the mind, opens the chest, and removes awkwardness between people. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to joke, but he did not say anything but the truth (peace and blessings be upon him). The poet says: "Beware, beware of joking, for it brings upon you the child and the base man." Excess in this causes harm, it destroys dignity, and it removes respect and solemnity from a person. Yes.