Question

Assalaamu-Alaikum Maulana Saheb,

Is it permissible to work in stores such as ASDA, Tescos and others which sell Alcohol, Pork and Lottery tickets?

Answer

One should have an income which is free of all doubts.  If possible, one should look for a job in which these things are not involved, e.g. an electrical firm, office work, government job, or even sweeping the streets would be a more halal and clear income.  Where possible, professionals should only opt for a job which is connected to their degree. Sometimes a lawyer works at Asda for a second income; this should be avoided. However, where one has exhausted all channels and has left no stone unturned in his quest for something pure and halal and has no other choice, then he could be allowed to work in these stores – provided he speaks to the manager and does not work in the sections exclusively made for the above, e.g. in the other areas such as fruits biscuits, cosmetics, toiletries, etc.  Regarding when at the till, the muftis take one of two views.  Our Mufti Sufi Tahir is of the opinion that one is a deputy of the seller, therefore he himself is selling that commodity.  I take the view that one is a labourer, who is only trying to earn his livelihood.  He is like the porter at the station or the taxi driver who has to carry whatever load the passenger instructs him to carry and therefore one should be allowed to work.  However, due to the difference of opinion it would be wiser to look for something else.  Also, keep doing istighfaar and abundance of sadaqah.