The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Straighten your rows, for I see you from behind my back.'
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Straighten your rows, for I see you from behind my back."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 718
Commentary on the Command to Straighten Rows
This noble hadith from the Book of Call to Prayers (Adhaan) in Sahih al-Bukhari contains profound wisdom regarding congregational prayer. The command to straighten rows (taswiyat as-sufuf) is not merely about physical alignment but reflects the spiritual harmony and unity of the Muslim community.
Scholars explain that proper row formation demonstrates submission to Allah's command, removes discord, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood. When believers stand shoulder-to-shoulder in prayer, they manifest the unity of the Ummah and eliminate the gaps that Satan seeks to exploit.
The Prophet's Spiritual Vision
The statement "I see you from behind my back" has been interpreted by classical scholars in several ways. Some explain it as referring to the Prophet's ability to see through spiritual insight granted by Allah, while others suggest it indicates his awareness of the congregation's state through reflection or other means.
Imam al-Qurtubi notes that this demonstrates the comprehensive nature of the Prophet's leadership in prayer - his concern extends to all aspects of the prayer's perfection, including the proper formation of rows. This spiritual vision reflects the Prophet's unique position as the guide and imam of the Muslim community.
Practical Implementation
The fuqaha (jurists) have derived numerous rulings from this hadith: The imam should ensure rows are straight before commencing prayer; worshippers should align their shoulders and feet with those beside them; gaps should be filled; and latecomers should complete the row rather than standing alone.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani emphasizes in Fath al-Bari that this command applies to both men and women's prayers, though the implementation may differ according to the separate arrangements for women's rows. The perfection of rows symbolizes the perfection of the prayer itself.