Taqiyya –

is a practice in Shi’a Islam whereby adherents may conceal their beliefs when they are under threat, persecution, or compulsion.

The cesspit of lies definition is quite flattering. It is also too specific.This divinely approved practice is not limited to the Shi’a sects. Nor is it limited to situations of threat, persecution, or compulsion. This has been expanded upon by many islamic scholars over the years, this excerpt from muslim scholar Afif A. Tabbarah is fairly typical –

Lying is not always bad, to be sure; there are times when telling a lie is more profitable and better for the general welfare, and for the settlement of conciliation among people, than telling the truth. To this effect, the Prophet says: ‘He is not a false person who (through lies) settles conciliation among people, supports good or says what is good. (more…)