QA-ID-0040
QUESTION
In taraweeh, there is a gap in the row in front but the brothers just behind the row didn’t move forward and everyone (aside from me) has joined the jamaat. Should I walk in front of the brothers (diagonally) and complete the saf? What if I was the one just behind & I’ve already joined the jamaah please?
ANSWER
﷽
It is mandatory to fill the rows completely before initiating a new row. Leaving a gap without a valid reason is severely disliked and considered sinful.
If there is an empty space in a row, the person directly behind it should step forward to complete the row, even if they have already commenced the prayer.
If no one behind is moving to fill the gap, then the newcomer should fill the empty space in that row, even if it requires walking in front of the rows to do so. Such a person will not be sinful for this action since the individuals behind that row did not step forward and complete the row as required (See Fatāwā Ridawiyyah 7/45-47; Radd al-Muhtār 1/570 & 635).
However, it is advisable to try to fill the gap without crossing if feasible, to prevent individuals who may be unaware of the ruling from breaking their prayer.
والله تعالى أعلم
And Allāh Knows Best
Muhammad Kalim Misbahi
