Is it permissible for a Muslim to lie like the lies of Ibrahim?

Question : Is it permissible for one to lie like the lies of Ibrahim (peace and blessings be upon him)?

Answer : Yes, Ibrahim (peace and blessings be upon him) interpreted the matter; he did not tell a blatant lie, but it was a figurative interpretation because he showed the person he was addressing something other than what he intended. It has been established that figurative interpretation is permissible if there is a benefit or if it averts harm, and that if it involves injustice, it is forbidden. This is one opinion regarding these two issues. And if there is no injustice, no need, and no benefit, there are two opinions among the scholars, and the better course is to avoid them.