The Importance of Balancing the Saffs (Rows) for Salaat
The Importance of Balancing the Saffs (Rows) for Salaat
- 1. The Saff should be equal on both sides, e., there should be an equal number of Musallis on the right and left-hand sides of the Imaam. (Shaami 1/310)
Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam has instructed us to: “Keep the Imaam in the middle (of the Saff) and fill any gaps (which are found in the Saff)”. (Baihaqi 5408)
- 2. When forming the Saffs, one should endeavour to stand on the right-hand side as long as the right-hand side is not longer than the left-hand sid Once the Saff is equal on both sides, it is preferable to stand on the right-hand side.
Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam said: “Allah and His Angels bless those who are on the right-hand side of the rows”. (Abu Dawood 676)
- 3. If the left-hand side is shorter than the right-hand side, one should stand on the left-hand sid Similarly, if the right-hand side is shorter than the left-hand side, one should stand on the right-hand side.
Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam was informed that the left side of the Musjid has been abandoned (i.e., most of the congregation are choosing to stand on the right-hand side of the Saff thereby leaving the left-hand side virtually empty). Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam said: “Whoever fills the left side of the Musjid, two Kifl (an amount/ measure) of rewards will be recorded for him”. (Ibn Maajah 1007) In short, ensure that both sides of the Imaam are equally balanced.
Published by: Jamiatul Ulama Gauteng
