Is the ruling

Q: We are a group of Muslim youth who live in Holland. Praise be to Allah, we are committed to our religion. But all the types of work available here are related to serving wine and pork along with other types of meat in restaurants. Is it permissible for us to work in washing dishes in restaurants that serve pork to earn our living? We appreciate your advice, may Allah help all of us to do what is best and reward you with the best for your deeds!

A: It is not permissible for you to serve wine or work in restaurants that serve it. Likewise, it is not permissible for you to work in restaurants or shops that serve pork or sell it even if they serve or sell other types of meat or food. It is not permissible for you to work there whether your work is to sell, serve or even to wash the dishes. All these types of work involve cooperation in committing sins and transgression. Allah prohibits all this (Part No. 14; Page No. 415) saying, ...but do not help one another in sin and transgression. You are not forced to do so. Allah's Earth is spacious for you to immigrate. Many Muslim countries are open for you to migrate to. There are many types of work that are lawful there according to the Shari`ah. So you can go to a Muslim country where you may find a permissible type of work. Allah (Exalted be He) says, And whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allâh, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allâh will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allâh has set a measure for all things. Allah (Exalted be He) also says, ...and whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make his matter easy for him. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.