The ruling on lagging behind the imam in bowing or in other matters for the sake of prolonging supplication

Question:
What is the ruling on lagging behind the imam, whether during bowing or otherwise, for the sake of supplication in the state of prostration, and what is the evidence?

Answer:
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The imam is appointed to be followed, so do not lag behind your imam and do not get ahead of him; follow the imam. This is what the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) commanded: when he bows, bow, and when he prostrates, prostrate. And when he says, ‘Allah hears the one who praises Him,’ say, ‘Our Lord, to You belongs all praise.’ Follow the imam. This is what the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) commanded.”