What is the ruling on the salary earned from a job obtained with a forged master's degree, given that the salary is in exchange for effort, knowledge, and experience, and what is the solution for escaping the hardship of debts in light of the difficult living conditions?

It is not permissible to obtain a certificate unlawfully, as this involves lying, cheating, and falsification. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, considered giving false testimony to be among the gravest of major sins, and he said: "Whoever cheats us is not of us, and cunning and deception lead to Hellfire."

As for the salary received by the falsifier, if his work is permissible and he performs it to the fullest, then the salary is lawful. However, if the work is unlawful, or he does not perform it as required, then the salary is unlawful.

The questioner is advised to strive to obtain a genuine certificate or to seek work that does not require what he does not possess, and to fear Allah and be patient. For whoever fears Allah, He will make a way out for him and provide for him from where he does not expect. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Indeed, the Holy Spirit inspired in me that no soul will die until it completes its provision, so fear Allah and be moderate in seeking (provision), and do not let the delay in provision lead you to seek it through disobedience to Allah, for what is with Allah can only be attained through obedience to Him."