Is it obligatory to follow the imam in saying "Ameen"? And if the follower precedes the imam in saying "Ameen," does he share in the virtue of matching the imam in saying "Ameen"?

The questioner : Is it obligatory to follow the imam in saying "Ameen"?

The Shaykh : Yes.
Saying "Ameen" is a recommended practice, a strongly recommended practice, especially when the imam says it. He said: And the imam's and the follower's "Ameen" should be at the same time, based on the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): Yes.

The questioner : The virtue that is tied to matching [the imam], if the follower precedes his imam, does he enter into that virtue or not?

The Shaykh : How?

The questioner : The virtue mentioned in the hadith for whoever matches his imam in saying "Ameen."

The Shaykh : Saying "Ameen," yes.

The questioner : So that it matches the "Ameen" of the angels.

The Shaykh : Yes.

The questioner : Does the one who precedes his imam enter into this virtue?

The Shaykh : No, the one who precedes his imam in this does not enter into this virtue, because he said: And the minimum meaning of this phrase is when he begins saying "Ameen." But if it is assumed that the imam delayed, then there is no blame on the follower for saying "Ameen." Yes.