What is the ruling on the imam delaying the iqama (call to begin prayer) in order to ensure the presence of the largest possible number of worshippers, while this inconveniences those worshippers who arrive early?

Delaying the Iqamah to increase the congregation differs depending on the prayers:

- Isha: It is permissible to delay it sometimes and hasten it sometimes, depending on the gathering of people, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did.

- Other prayers (Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Fajr): The preponderant opinion is that they should be prayed at the beginning of their time. Delaying for the sake of the congregation has only been mentioned for Isha.

- Dhuhr: It is permissible to delay it during intense heat (al-Ibrad).

The Imam should pray at the times when the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray, and should not delay except in cases where the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) delayed. If some of the congregation are present and the time for prayer has arrived, the Imam should pray, especially since delay may lead to disagreement.