If he finds a gap which someone has already positioned himself to enter, the apparent meaning of the author’s words is that he should enter it, and the one who held back from it is at fault. This happens often: for example, you may come and find a gap in the first row, but behind it is someone performing a voluntary prayer. His praying behind it indicates that he is preparing to move into it, yet you may step forward and occupy it.

For we say: Why did he not step forward and pray in it? He is the one who neglected this place. This apparent meaning of the author’s words is undoubtedly correct: you should enter the gap, even if you see someone praying behind it and intending to enter it, because he is the one who deprived himself of the more virtuous place. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “If people knew the reward of the call to prayer and the first row, then found no way to attain it except by drawing lots, they would draw lots for it” (1).

However, if you fear discord, hostility, or resentment, then leave it, for congregational prayer was prescribed for great benefits, among them harmony, affection, and mutual love between Muslims. If Allah knows from your intention that, were it not for fear of this harm, you would have moved forward to this virtuous place, then He may reward you for your good intention.

The evidence that he should enter it is the Messenger’s command, peace and blessings be upon him, to stand closely together (2), for his command to close ranks entails filling the gaps. It is reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, that whoever joins a row, Allah joins him (3), and that “Allah and His angels send blessings upon those who join the rows” (4).