Is is permissible to lead a salah split over different rooms?
Visibility and Connection and following the Imam
Traditionally, it is preferred that the Imam and the congregation are in the same physical space, maintaining a direct line of sight or at least a clear physical connection.
The ability to follow the Imam’s movements and recitations is crucial for the validity of the congregational prayer.
Though it is always preferable for a congregation to worship collectively in one space, it is not always physically possible to fit them in one area. In such situations, it is permissible for a congregation to be split in different rooms. For instance, this could be a multi-storey building, as long as the imam can be heard and it is clear what position he is in during the salah. This can be done using microphones speakers and other audio visual aids.
Shaykh Haytham Tamim 22nd July 2024
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