Marrying a working woman

Q: A man receives a monthly salary that is not enough to provide for a family. May he marry a working woman? Is it permissible for a woman to work to help her poor husband? Are there fields of work especially for women? If yes, who is accountable for any sin that she may commit, Allah forbid, while working; her, or her husband?

A: If a woman works in a female-only environment, i.e. there is no free mixing between the two sexes, no Khulwah (being alone with a member of the opposite sex) takes place and the husband's permission is sought, it is permissible for her to work (Part No. 17; Page No. 238) and it is permissible for a man to marry her. Among jobs befitting for women are educating and nursing fellow women and other such works. Moreover, it is he who commits a sin who bears accountability for it. However, if the husband caused the sin be committed, he will be accountable in proportion with his participation in the sin. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.