The ruling on having multiple congregations in the mosque at the same time

Question:
Praise be to Allah. He also asks: What is the ruling on establishing two congregations with different intentions in one mosque at the same time?

Answer:
It is not permissible to have multiple congregations in the mosque at the same time; this is prohibited. However, if the first congregation has prayed, those who come after them may establish a second congregation to pray with them. This is because the intention is not to divide the people, but rather that they missed the congregational prayer, so they established a second congregation, and there is no harm in that. As for intentionally dividing the people into two congregations in one mosque at the same time, this is not permissible. Or if they intentionally arrange for one group to step forward and pray, and then the second group comes and prays afterwards by agreement and intention, this is not permissible. Rather, as we mentioned, if they are all eager to pray as one congregation, but some of them missed the prayer, there is no harm in establishing a second congregation. When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) had a man come to him who had missed the prayer, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Who will give charity to this man and pray with him?" This established a second congregation for this one who was left behind. He commanded it, and the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged whoever would stand with him. This is evidence that if the first congregation is missed, there is no harm in establishing a second congregation without prior intention or agreement.