Humour is essential in life, some people are exceptionally funny and Witty with their responses. But some people just let go their tongues free and say whatever makes people laugh, just to have a good time .

Allah the exalted says: Oh you who believe ! Keep your duty to Allah and fear Him, and speak the Truth.
Truth has to prevail in any and every situation.

Some people exaggerate the truth to make an enjoyable story adding expressions which never were expressed, these are also lies. The Prophet was a person whose company was enjoyed by everyone and he used to joke too but he spoke the facts.

Anas narrated: A man came to the Prophet and said, “O Messenger of Allah give me something to ride upon.” He said “I shall give you the young one of a she camel to ride on.” The man said, “What will I do with the young one of a she camel?” The Prophet said, “Is not every camel given birth by a she camel. ”
We need to keep in mind that we should never hurt anybody while having fun, disrespecting children is offensive, it breaks their self-esteem. Everyone is deserving of respect no matter how young or old they are.

Narrating stories, and jokes should not become backbiting or occasions to gossip, if it isn’t offensive but may defame a person’s image it better not be told. For backbiting is a serious sin, which we should endeavour to avoid.

So, joke and have fun but in a truthful and harmless way, not hurtful to others, nor harmful to oneself.

Fatima Damad
AAT,  Writer