"Make your rows straight, make your rows straight, make your rows straight. By the One in Whose Hand is my soul! I can see you behind me as I can see you in front of me."
The Book of Leading the Prayer (Al-Imamah)
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 813
Hadith Text
"Make your rows straight, make your rows straight, make your rows straight. By the One in Whose Hand is my soul! I can see you behind me as I can see you in front of me."
Commentary
The triple repetition emphasizes the critical importance of straightening rows in congregational prayer. This is among the sunan mu'akkadah (emphasized traditions) that perfect the prayer's outward form.
The Prophet's oath "By the One in Whose Hand is my soul!" demonstrates the gravity of this matter, elevating it from mere recommendation to near obligation.
His statement about seeing worshippers behind him indicates his spiritual perception transcends physical limitations during prayer. Scholars explain this as either divine illumination granted to him or referring to his awareness through other senses.
Straight rows symbolize unity, discipline, and spiritual alignment of the congregation, reflecting the harmony sought in the Muslim community.
Legal Ruling
The majority of scholars consider straightening rows obligatory (wajib), while others regard it as strongly recommended (sunnah mu'akkadah). Neglecting this diminishes the prayer's perfection though doesn't invalidate it.