صلاة الجماعة

Abstract

Al-Jama'a, or praying with a group, means a connection between the leader (Imam) and those being led (Ma'moom).  Islam has legislated certain occasions and gatherings among Moslems to perform prayers and worship at certain times, such as performing the five daily prayers, group prayer during the week, the annual feast prayers. The purpose of these prayers and gatherings is to strengthen the ties of affection, relationships and connections among Moslems, so that they will get to know each other better.  Such prayers and group worship will also enhance the feelings of love, brotherhood, and the sense of belonging among the members of the Islamic community. They also teach them discipline and order.  Islamic scholars have treated group prayer as either an emphasized tradition or as an obligatory one.   For example, followers of the Hanafi and Maliki doctrines have treated them as a Sunni Mu'akadah (emphasized tradition) for men, while the followers of the Shafi'i doctrine say that it is a mandatory prayer that suffices to be performed by some (Fard Kifayyah); if some do it , then the rest are exempt. The followers of the Hanbali doctrine, on the other hand, say that it is obligatory on each man.  It is also highly recommended and preferable to be performed by women for the great benefits it offers, regardless of the differences among the various theologians about its legal ruling.