Combining the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) recitation of Surat al-A’raf in the Maghrib prayer with his disapproval of Mu’adh’s recitation of Surat al-Baqarah in the ‘Isha’ prayer

The questioner:
May Allah reward you, Honorable Shaykh. This questioner says: What is the reconciliation between the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) recitation of the entire Surat al-A’raf in the Maghrib prayer and his disapproval of Mu’adh’s (may Allah be pleased with him) recitation of Surat al-Baqarah in the ‘Isha’ prayer?

The Shaykh:
Because the congregation.

The questioner:
Because Mu’adh’s congregation.

The Shaykh:
were surprised by this and complained to the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him).

The questioner:
As for if they had been eager for this.

The Shaykh:
with him, the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) did not disapprove of him. A person should not disturb the people and say, “No, no, I will follow the Sunnah.” If they do not desire lengthening the prayer, this disturbs the people and causes discord and misunderstanding, and it drives them away from the mosque. One leaves the Sunnah that causes aversion and does not drive people away. Preventing harm takes precedence over seeking benefit; this is a rule. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you. You are free.

The Shaykh:
And Allah the Exalted knows best, and may Allah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon his family and his Companions.