and that the term “congregation” applies to them. Ibn Mājah narrated (972) from Abū Mūsā that the Prophet ﷺ said, “Two or more constitute a congregation,” and the hadith of Mālik ibn al-Huwayrith is also cited: “When the time for prayer comes, give the adhān, then let the older of you lead the two of you in prayer,” recorded by al-Bukhārī (658) and Muslim (674).

2 – The hadith points to the superiority of a large congregation: the more worshippers gather, the greater the reward. This increases the visible ranks of the Muslims in the houses of Allah and places of worship, prompts them to supplicate for one another, and realises the aims of assembling for prayer in the mosque—such as the ignorant learning from the knowledgeable, the wealthy showing kindness to the poor, and fostering harmony and acquaintance among the Muslims, especially among neighbours and the residents of the same district.

3 – The hadith teaches that a large congregation is beloved to Allah, for it leads to His boasting of His servants, frustrates Satan, and drives him away when the Muslims gather in obedience to Allah. Because of these great benefits, it is forbidden to build a mosque next to another mosque except out of need. Kashshāf al-Qināʿ states: “It is prohibited to build a mosque beside an existing mosque unless there is a need, such as the first one being too small or fear of discord if all were to gather in a single mosque.”

4 – The attribute of divine love is affirmed for Allah in a manner befitting His majesty and greatness. We affirm its reality without asking how, without likening or comparing Him to any of His creation, and without denying any of His established attributes. This is the creed of Ahl al-Sunnah regarding the divine attributes: they neither negate Allah’s attributes nor liken Him to His creation. It is the wise and sound path; we ask Allah for understanding of it and steadfastness upon it.

5 – Righteous deeds differ in purity and excellence, and this depends on the extent to which