✿ Cheating in Exams: A Serious Betrayal with Societal Consequences ✿
This response is derived from the book “500 Questions and Answers for Women,” based on the fatāwā of the Scholars of the Ḥaramayn. Translated by Ḥāfiẓ ʿAbdullāh Salīm.
During examinations, I use all possible means and resources to help my fellow female classmates by providing answers when they ask. What is the ruling of Islam regarding this practice?
Such actions constitute deception, and they are harmful to society at large. The person benefiting from this deceit ends up obtaining a certificate or qualification that they are not rightfully entitled to. Consequently, they may occupy a position or responsibility they are unfit for, which results in collective harm and betrayal of trust.
This form of cheating is not just a personal wrongdoing, but a social injustice and an ethical violation that undermines the integrity of educational and professional systems.
وَاللَّهُ أَعْلَمُ
[Shaykh Muḥammad ibn Ṣāliḥ al-ʿUthaymīn رحمه الله]
This response is derived from the book “500 Questions and Answers for Women,” based on the fatāwā of the Scholars of the Ḥaramayn. Translated by Ḥāfiẓ ʿAbdullāh Salīm.
❖ Question:
During examinations, I use all possible means and resources to help my fellow female classmates by providing answers when they ask. What is the ruling of Islam regarding this practice?
❖ Answer:
It is not permissible to use illegitimate means during examinations, nor is it permissible to assist others in such dishonest practices — whether that assistance is offered through whispered speech, allowing someone to copy, or any other method.Such actions constitute deception, and they are harmful to society at large. The person benefiting from this deceit ends up obtaining a certificate or qualification that they are not rightfully entitled to. Consequently, they may occupy a position or responsibility they are unfit for, which results in collective harm and betrayal of trust.
This form of cheating is not just a personal wrongdoing, but a social injustice and an ethical violation that undermines the integrity of educational and professional systems.
وَاللَّهُ أَعْلَمُ
[Shaykh Muḥammad ibn Ṣāliḥ al-ʿUthaymīn رحمه الله]
