If a latecomer enters while the Imam is bowing, should he pull the worshiper (who is already praying) to pray beside him, or should he wait until the Imam is heard, and then they both return (to the congregation)?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The matter is broad concerning the movement of the congregants to shift from the sides of the Imam to behind him after bowing. The congregant may pull him while he is bowing, or they may stand with him and then move back. It is for the Imam to move forward or for the two congregants to move backward if another congregant arrives, and this is permissible during standing or bowing. It is not sunnah in other positions, such as the final . If they stand beside the Imam during bowing or other parts of the prayer, their prayer is valid, especially if it is easier for them or prevents distraction.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/12525
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 12525
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy