In the Name of Allāh.
In matters of Mu’amalat (social transactions such as education, business, management, etc.), we consistently strive for a certain level of excellence. However, how committed are we to achieving excellence in our ‘Ibādat (worship), particularly in prayer? One significant factor that can aid us in achieving excellence in our prayers is the straightening of our rows. ‘Anas Ibn Mālik (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) reported that the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) stated: “Straighten your rows as the straightening of rows is essential for a perfect and correct prayer.” [Ṣaḥiḥ al-Bukhārī 723]
Sadly, the Imām often has to remind us of this, yet some individuals still fail to comply. So, why do we lament the disunity within the Ummah? It was narrated by Abu Mas’ūd (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) that the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) would gently pat their shoulders while they stood in rows for prayer, advising: “Keep (the rows) straight; do not differ from each other lest your hearts should suffer from discord. Let those who are forbearing and wise stand closest to me, then those who are next to them, then those who are next to them.” [Sunan Ibn Majah 976]
Is it still unclear that straightening the rows during prayer is strongly encouraged? Or are those who are aware yet continue to act otherwise simply yielding to their desires? Why do we fail to recognize the importance of excellence in our prayers? Emphasizing this point, ‘Anas Ibn Mālik (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) noted: “Every one of us used to put his shoulder with the shoulder of his companion and his foot with the foot of his companion.” [Ṣaḥiḥ al-Bukhārī 725]
If, during prayer, you attempt to reduce the gap between yourself and your companions, and they move away, don’t let that frustrate you. Simply do what you can. After the prayer, you may politely approach them to offer gentle guidance.
I beseech Allāh to grant us the humility to follow the example of the Companions, the patience to guide those who have strayed, and the steadfastness to pray with our hearts and minds in alignment. Aameen.
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