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Using a Forged Certificate for Getting a Job is Prohibited

Answered as per Shafi'i Fiqh by Darul Iftaa Jordan
I went abroad to obtain a university certificate, but failed to do so, therefore I tried to go home, but my father threatened that he will walk out on me. As a result, I paid money in return for a university certificate, and went home. Later, I submitted an application to the Civil Service Bureau. At the same time, I was offered a job by a private company which made it a condition that I get an ICDL. I got the ICDL with colorful marks, and was given the job. I would like to stress that the company was basically interested in my ICDL, and didn`t pay much attention to my certificate. After some time, I sat for a competitive exam administered by the Bureau of Civil Service, and managed to pass it and got a government job. I have been working in that job for three years although I have never studied at a university; however, I have the needed experience to do that job. What is the Sharia ruling regarding my job and my salary, taking into consideration that I can`t quit because I have got a family to support ?

Answer:
All praise is due to Allah, peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah and upon all his family and companions: Allah has forbidden lying, cheating, and forgery for He says: “O ye who believe! Fear God and be with those who are true (in word and deed).”{At-Tawbah/119}. Moreover, Prophet Mohammad(PBUH) said: “Should I inform you about the greatest of the great sins?" They said, "Yes, O Allah's Apostle!" He said, "To join others in worship with Allah and to be undutiful to one's parents." The Prophet then sat up after he had been reclining (on a pillow) and said, "And I warn you against giving a false witness, and he kept on saying that warning till we thought he would not stop.”{Bukhari}. Consequently, it is forbidden that you carry on with your job which you have obtained by a forged certificate so as to acquit yourself before Allah. Sincere repentance requires that you be remorseful, seek forgiveness of Allah, and never do such a thing again. And Allah knows best.

This answer was collected from the official government Iftaa Department of Jordan.

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