Is it permissible for a woman to work as a secretary in a company that includes a two-room office and a reception area, while its owners justify choosing a girl by stating that it is the custom in their country and that she is more capable of secretarial and computer work, despite her commitment to modesty and religious principles? And is there any sin upon the company owners for this? And is it permissible for them to bring in a female cleaner for the company? And what is the difference between khalwah (private seclusion) and ikhtilat (mixing)?

It is not permissible for a woman to work in a place where she mingles with men due to the ensuing harms. Nor is it permissible for an employer to hire a woman to work among men, as this constitutes aiding in prohibited mingling. Seclusion (khalwa) between a man and a woman is forbidden, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Indeed, no man is ever alone with a woman but the third of them is Shaytan (Satan)." As for mingling (ikhtilat), it may occur without seclusion, but it is rarely free from dangers such as looking, touching, and attachment of the heart, and it may lead to something greater. Mingling between men and women in schools or other places is one of the great evils and major corruptions. Therefore, it is not permissible for a woman to study or work in a place where men and women mingle.