What is the ruling on the congregation advancing ahead of the imam in prayer?

The questioner : The questioner asks: Is it permissible for the ma'mum (one praying behind the imam) to advance ahead of the imam? We see the imam of the Haram praying, with people positioned ahead of him on his right and left. Does this count as another row? Exclusively.

The Shaykh : It is obligatory for the imam to be in front, and it is not permissible for the ma'mum to advance ahead of his imam. The meaning of the word "imam" is that he is in front, meaning he is the role model, and his position is ahead of the ma'mum. Therefore, it is not permissible for a person praying as a ma'mum to pray in front of his imam. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray in front of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them). Consequently, those who pray in front of the imam have no valid prayer, and they are required to repeat their prayer. However, some scholars have made an exception for cases where dire necessity (darurah) demands it, such as when the mosque is narrow and the surrounding area cannot accommodate the people, so the people pray on the right, left, behind, and in front due to the necessity. Yes.