Fatwa ID: 05806
Answered by: Shaykh Ahmed bin Mohamed Umarji
Question:
I have a question regarding my job. I work in IT in a well-paid job in London. A few months ago, I was verbally offered a job at another firm with a potentially higher salary. I informed my manager at my current company that I was being offered a job for a lot more money. I intentionally lied and quoted a much higher salary so that I may receive a higher counteroffer. Eventually, the manager at my current company increased my salary quite significantly.
I later regretted lying about this, and my Iman made me feel extremely guilty. I am regretting why I did this. Now, I have it in my mind that my income is haram.
When I thought back at the time, I got this job around 5 years ago, I remember I did the same at that time too. I lied about my salary at that time so that I would be offered a higher salary. Again, I am now doubting that my income is haram.
This made me think back even further. It is common in colleges and universities to cheat and plagiarize. I also plagiarized many times in university. Then, I was given my first job based on that degree that I obtained from University. Does this also make my salary haram?
Could you please tell me; is my income haram? Secondly, should I tell my manager to reduce my salary?
I wish I could stop lying. Could you please give me some advice?
Jazakallah
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Answer:
Lying and cheating are something that is explicitly prohibited in Islam.
The Prophet P.B.U.H said;
- “The signs of the hypocrite are three: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted with something, he betrays (that trust).”1
- “Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink.”2
Based on these narrations it is clear that lying and cheating are Haram (impermissible) and something that will render one sinful. However, the income will be Halal (permissible).
Only Allah knows best
Written by Shaykh Ahmed bin Mohamed Umarji
Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham
1 Sunan an-Nasa’i 5021
2 Sahih al-Bukhari 6057
