Q 6: A young Muslim woman who wears the veil and conservative clothing works beside men in an agency, a laboratory, or an institution. It should be noted that she works with men and women who dress immodestly. What is the ruling on working in such a place?

A: It is not permissible for a woman to work with men who are not Mahrams (spouse or unmarriageable relative) because of the evils that may result from her work with them. Instead, a woman should seek Allah's Provision through other means that are not prohibited. Whoever fears Allah, Allah will grant ease for him from his situation. A Fatwa has been issued from the Committee on this regard; it reads, 'As regards intermingling between men and women in factories or offices in non-Muslim countries, it is not permissible because in such countries they commit a worse sin that is, disbelief. So it is not strange for them to allow men to interact with women, such an abominable practice. As for women's mixing with men in Muslim countries, it is unlawful. The duty of Muslim officials in charge of departments where women mix with men is to separate them. Intermingling between the sexes leads to many evils on the moral level and they are obvious to any person with the least degree of wisdom. (Part No. 17; Page No. 233) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.