Praying In Congregation With Gaps In The Rows
Wa alaikum assalam. 1. If there is a gap in the front row: Yes, it is recommended (not obligatory) to step forward and fill the gap if you can do so calmly without causing disturbance. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged completing the front rows and closing gaps. However, this applies when the movement is minimal and natural. If moving forward would involve excessive walking, distracting others, or breaking concentration, then it is perfectly fine to stay where you are. Your salah remains completely valid either way. 2. If you are praying with one person and a third joins:In this case, the correct Sunnah arrangement is that both of you step slightly back so that the imam remains in front and the two followers stand in a row behind him. If this adjustment happens gently during prayer, it is allowed. Small necessary movements do not invalidate salah. 3. If the gap is diagonally ahead (not directly in front of you):You should not walk across in front of someone who is praying to fill a gap. If the person beside you (who has the direct opening) does not move, then you simply stay where you are. Islam does not require you to correct others or disrupt prayer lines forcefully. Avoiding disturbance takes priority over perfect row alignment. Filling rows is encouraged, not compulsory.