"The Imam is appointed to be followed. When he bows, then bow, when he stands up, then stand up, when he prostrates, then prostrate, and when he says Sami' Alldhu liman hamidah (Allah hears the one who praises Him), then say, Rabbanrilakal-hamd (Our Lord, to You be the praise)."
Hadith Text & Reference
"The Imam is appointed to be followed. When he bows, then bow, when he stands up, then stand up, when he prostrates, then prostrate, and when he says Sami' Allāhu liman ḥamidah (Allah hears the one who praises Him), then say, Rabbana lakal-ḥamd (Our Lord, to You be the praise)."
Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 794 | The Book of Leading the Prayer (Al-Imamah)
Commentary on the Role of Imam
The hadith establishes the fundamental principle that the imam is designated as a leader to be emulated in prayer. This leadership is not merely ceremonial but carries religious obligation. The congregation must synchronize their movements with the imam, not precede him nor lag significantly behind.
Scholars explain that following the imam preserves the unity and harmony of the prayer congregation, reflecting the unity of the Muslim community. The imam bears responsibility for the validity of his prayer, while followers bear responsibility for properly following him.
Detailed Rulings on Following Movements
Bowing (Ruku'): The congregation must bow only after the imam has completely entered the bowing position. The same applies to prostration (sujūd) - one should prostrate only after the imam is fully in prostration.
Standing Up: When rising from bowing or prostration, the congregation should rise after the imam has begun rising. There should be no excessive delay in following the imam's movements.
Prostration: The prohibition against preceding the imam is particularly emphasized in prostration, as doing so may invalidate the prayer according to some scholars if done intentionally.
The Response After Rising from Bowing
When the imam says "Sami' Allāhu liman ḥamidah" (Allah hears the one who praises Him), the congregation responds with "Rabbana lakal-ḥamd" (Our Lord, to You be the praise).
Scholars note that this exchange represents a beautiful spiritual conversation between the imam and congregation. The imam announces that Allah accepts praise, and the congregation affirms that all praise belongs to Allah alone. This should be said while standing upright after rising from bowing.
Legal Implications & Wisdom
The majority of scholars hold that preceding the imam in movements invalidates the prayer if done intentionally, while following after a brief pause is obligatory. The wisdom behind this ruling includes maintaining order, demonstrating humility, and fulfilling the purpose of congregational prayer.
This teaching emphasizes the importance of unity in worship and submission to legitimate religious leadership. It trains Muslims in discipline, coordination, and the spirit of collective worship that characterizes Islamic practice.