Is it better to pray in a mosque where there are innovations (bid'ah), and one does not feel at ease during prayer, and they do not straighten their rows, or to pray at home?
Congregational prayer is required. Regarding an innovating imam: if his innovation amounts to disbelief, prayer behind him is not valid. If it is less than that, then if it is possible to pray behind someone else, that is preferable. Otherwise, do not miss the congregational prayer. One should pray behind every righteous and unrighteous person as long as his prayer is valid. He should also be advised.
Tranquility (ṭumaʾnīnah) in prayer is a pillar according to the majority of scholars. Its measure is a stillness after movement, lasting long enough to say "Subhanallah" once. An imam's lengthening of the bowing (rukuʿ) and prostration (sujud) to this extent is not considered "pecking" in prayer.
Straightening the rows is unanimously agreed upon as legislated. The majority of scholars consider it recommended. Not straightening the rows does not justify abandoning congregational prayer; rather, people should be advised and the Sunnah explained to them.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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