These are the proofs cited by those who hold that congregational prayer is an individual obligation. Whoever considers them cannot reasonably maintain any other view.

Some scholars have said that it is a communal obligation, while others have said that it is a sunnah.

Those who regard it as a sunnah cite the Prophet’s statement, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him: “Prayer in congregation is superior to the prayer of an individual by twenty-seven degrees.” (1) They argue that he said, “superior,” and what is superior is not obligatory.

But this argument is very weak, for what is meant here is to explain the reward of congregational prayer—that its reward is greater and more abundant—not to state its legal ruling. Mentioning that something is superior does not negate its being obligatory.

Do you not see the words of Allah Most High:

“O you who believe, shall I direct you to a trade that will save you from a painful punishment? You believe in Allah and His Messenger and strive in the way of Allah with your wealth and your lives. That is better for you.” [al-Saff: 10–11]

That is, it is best and most excellent for you. Would you then say that faith in Allah and striving in His cause are sunnah? No one says such a thing.

And would you say that the Friday prayer is sunnah because Allah says:

“O you who believe, when the call is made for prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off trade. That is better for you, if only you knew.” [al-Jumu'ah]

The answer is: no one says that the Friday prayer is sunnah.