Is the work in which the employer exploits the employee under the pretext of "milk al-yameen" (right of possession), claiming to provide a livelihood, considered permissible (halal) or forbidden (haram), and is this submission to the employer's demands compatible with Islamic law (Sharia)?
The meaning of Allah's saying: "or what your right hands possess" refers to female slaves acquired through capture in the Muslims' jihad against warring disbelievers. This does not include hired workers or domestic helpers. Therefore, for an employer to engage in sexual relations with them without a lawful marriage is considered pure adultery, which necessitates punishment.
Thus, it is not permissible for a woman to allow her employer to be alone with her or to touch her, nor is it permissible for her to work in a place that exposes her to falling into the unlawful. And whoever fears Allah and remains patient, Allah will protect him and provide for him from where he does not expect.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/126346