Truthfulness is the ninth of the ten attributes of ‘dharma’.
Normally, this attribute is linked with the faculty of speech;
i.e. to strictly speak what one has seen, heard or understood.
This could do as a broad general definition. But it does not
capture the essence of truthfulness which can only be defined as
upholding the intrinsic core of righteousness. If the objective
is noble then circumstances may warrant deliberate deviation
from the literal definition. For, instance, if a patient is
struggling against an apparently incurable ailment, words of
encouragement and hope, strengthening his willpower and thereby
increasing his chances of survival would better serve the spirit
of truth than literally and heartlessly repeating the medical
verdict. Such truthfulness is worse than an outright lie.
Similarly, if there is estrangement between two closely related
parties or persons, each feeling uncompromisingly righteous, the
ends of truth will be better served by acting as a bridge
through highlighting even in