It is disliked for the imam to be elevated above the congregation by a cubit or more, to lead the prayer in an alcove (ṭāq) (1), or to perform a supererogatory prayer in the very place where he has just led an obligatory one. It is likewise disliked for him to prolong his sitting (2) facing the qibla after the prayer (3) unless a genuine need requires it (4). It is also disliked for worshippers to stand between pillars (5) that interrupt the rows when there is no necessity.
Section: Excuses that Permit Missing the Friday Prayer and the Congregational Prayer
A person is excused from attending the Friday prayer and the congregational prayer if he is ill; if he is restraining either of the two bodily functions; if he needs the food that is set before him; if he fears the loss, forfeiture, or damage of his property; if a relative or traveling companion is dying, or if he is nursing either of them; if he fears harm to himself, oppression by an authority, or arrest by a creditor when he has nothing to pay; if he fears missing his travel party; if the imam’s recitation is unduly long; if he would be harmed by rain or the like; if overpowering drowsiness overtakes him; or if there is a biting, cold wind on a dark night.
Chapter: The Prayer of Those with Excuses
An obligatory prayer remains binding upon a sick person: he must perform it standing; if he cannot, then sitting; and if he is still unable, then on