Is it permissible to forge certificates to obtain exemption from military service due to the corrupting influences of religion in the army?
The general principle is that forgery is forbidden because it falls under false witness and false speech. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, warned against it, saying: "Shall I not inform you of the greatest of the great sins?" (He said it three times): "Associating partners with Allah, disobedience to parents, and bearing false witness - or false speech." Nothing is exempted from this principle except what is necessitated by compelling necessity. If joining military service would lead to religious corruptions that cannot be avoided, and exemption from it can only be obtained through forgery, then it is permissible at that time due to necessity, based on the Almighty's saying: "And He has explained to you in detail what He has forbidden you, except that to which you are compelled." However, if it is possible to avoid these corruptions or obtain an exemption through legitimate means without forgery, then these means must be pursued. Forgery should only be resorted to out of compelling necessity, and it should be limited to the extent of the need, based on the Almighty's saying: "But whoever is compelled, neither desiring [it] nor transgressing [its limit] - then there is no sin upon him. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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