Women doing the jobs of men

Q 3: What is the ruling on women undertaking jobs that men can do instead of them? In fact, this is meant for finding work fields that are befitting for women only.

A: The basic Shar`y (Islamic legal) principle is that women take the position through which Allah honored them, i.e. staying at home and away from places of temptation and doubt and that which is apt to cause them harm. They should pay more attention to educate their children according to Islamic principles and care for their husbands and family affairs. However, if a woman has to work, she should choose a kind of work that befits her religiously and worldly, i.e. Work that may not negatively affect undertaking her responsibility toward her husband and children. Her husband's permission has to be sought. Furthermore, women may not interfere in men-related jobs as it is likely to cause harm and corruption. In fact, entitling women to such work opportunities (Part No. 17; Page No. 237) is likely to frustrate men depriving them of available work opportunities. Moreover, working in such fields make women more apt to mix with men and thus seduce them which may result in bad consequences. In addition, it may result in failing to undertake their responsibilities towards their husbands, children and family affairs resulting in employing male and female servants, which has bad effects and harm on youngsters and their religious status as known to everyone. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.