In congregational prayers, the rows should be straight, close together, and without gaps.
Regarding the arrangement of the rows, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Keep your rows straight, for straightening the rows is part of the perfection of prayer.” (Bukhari, Adhan, 74 [723]; Muslim, Salat, 124 [433])
Although a large distance between the imam and the congregation inside the mosque does not prevent following the imam, it is disliked (makruh) for a person to follow the imam alone, separated from the rows, without a valid excuse. Accordingly, it is not appropriate for the muezzin to stand apart from the rows. (Kâsânî, Bedâ’i, 1/216) However, if there is a valid reason, such as the need to use a microphone, there is no objection to the muezzin following the imam from their place inside the mosque.
Source: T.C. Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Din İşleri Yüksek Kurulu
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