What is the ruling on using metaphorical intent when the oath-taker is neither oppressed nor oppressing others?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Oaths
Primary text
If the oath-taker is neither oppressed nor an oppressor, the apparent ruling from the statements of Ahmad is that the oath-taker is permitted to use their hidden intent (*ta'wil*). This is supported by narrations where figures like Mahanna and Abu 'Abdullah (Ahmad) tacitly accepted such subtle evasions, such as saying 'Al-Marwazi is not here' to mean he was not physically present in the speaker's hand, or as demonstrated by Ibrahim and Jarir who used equivocation to avoid revealing presence or fulfilling immediate requests without lying.
Supporting text
The practice of using equivocation (*ta'wil* or *ma'arid*)—where the words spoken mislead the listener but convey a meaning that is technically true for the speaker—is established by the practice of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in jest and serious counsel, such as when he told an old woman, 'No old woman will enter Paradise,' meaning God will recreate them as young virgins. Since the Prophet (peace be upon him) called this practice truth, it is permissible when not used to defraud someone of a right.