Question
In the kitaab, Raddul Muhtaar, it is said that standing in the last saff of Janaazah Salaat is afdhal more meritorious) than the other sufoof (rows). Should I wait until all the rows have been formed and join in the last saff to gain the extra reward?
Answer
What is mentioned in this regard in Raddul Muhtaar is pure opinion unsubstantiated by the Nusoos of the Shariah. The rationale for this opinion as explained in the Kitaab is that if there are, for example, only seven musallis for the Janaazah Salaat, then one will be the Imaam, three will stand in the first saff, two in the second saff, and one person alone in the third saff. This, according to the honourable Author of Raddul Muhtaar indicates the significance of the last saff of Janaazah Salaat.
However, this is not a daleel for the contention that the last saff is afdhal. It is a daleel (proof) for the significance of the rows being an odd number. The Hadith which mentions the superiority of the first saff is general. It is not restricted with the daily Fardh Salaat. It applies to even Janaazah Salaat.
Furthermore, if all the musallis desirous of the 'extra' thawaab should wait for the 'last' row to form, then we are afraid that confusion will reign. The Janaazah Salaat will not be able to proceed. The idea of the last saff being afdhal is irrational.
- Source
- themajlis.co.za
- Published in
- The Majlis Vol 22 No 04
- PDF page
- 4
Appears under Questions and Answers (approximate).