A: Haamidaw wa Musalliyaa
After analyzing your situation as mentioned in the question, whereas what you have initially decided amongst yourselves that your wife will work whilst you would look after the child, cannot be deemed Haraam and prohibited provided that your wife is able to adopt the strict laws of Hijaab when going to work, it is nevertheless against the general responsibilities allocated to the husband and wife. The responsibility of the husband is to provide for his family, whereas the wife is ordered to stay at home and bring up her children according to the Sharia. This allocation of responsibilities has many benefits and wisdoms within it and creates the balance that societies are looking for. Hence, if there is indeed a way for you to earn as much as your family requires whilst allowing your wife to remain at home, it is better that you adopt this method even though you may initially not be able to spend long hours with your child.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Shafiq Jakhura (Mufti)
Fatwa Dept.