What is the ruling regarding female teachers removing the jilbab and relying instead on a loose-fitting 'dir’' (outer garment) and a concealing 'khimar' (head covering) to avoid the closure of the school and the resulting harms, taking into consideration that some teachers are in financial need of the work, and others fear fitna (temptation/strife) if they leave their jobs?

The obligation is for a woman to cover her 'awrah (intimate parts) using any style or method that achieves concealment. If the ministry does not mandate uncovering the 'awrah, then there is no objection to not wearing the abaya that is placed over the head, and sufficing with the khimar (headscarf) and the abaya that is placed over the shoulders, provided that the khimar is certainly long enough. Wearing the jilbab outside of school is not problematic and is not considered hypocrisy; rather, it is preferable if it provides more concealment.

If the ministry mandates uncovering the 'awrah, then there is no obedience to a creature in disobedience to the Creator, and women must withdraw from the school. For those who do not need to work, they should convince their families of the Islamic ruling and seek help through prayer. For those who are in need, they should rely on Allah to suffice them from this job and seek a permissible one, remembering Allah's saying: "And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out and will provide for him from where he does not expect."