Islam_in_Focus_text

The Fard Prayer is much more preferable when offered
in a congregation (Jamaah) led by an Imam. The congregation
is best when it is held in a mosque, but it may be held in
other places.
The Congregation {Jama'ah ) Prayers
1
.
The congregation is led by an Imam from among the
present worshipers. He must be chosen on his merits of re-
ligious knowledge and piety.
2. The Imam of the congregation stands in the front by
himself while the followers stand behind him in straight
lines, all facing the Qiblah. A congregation can be made up
of even two persons: the Imam and one folio wer.
3. After declaring the intention of Prayer the Imam re-
cites the Fatihah and the complementary passage of the
Qur'an in audible voice in the Early Morning Prayer and in
the first two units of the Sunset Prayer. When the Imam is re-
citing the Qur'an aloud, the followers listen to him in medi-
tation and humility. They do not recite the Fatihah nor the
other passage after the Imam.
4. When the Imam concludes the Fatihah the followers
say 'Ameeri. After the Imam stands from the bowing posture
he says: "Sami'a-l-lahu liman Hamidah" (Allah accepts any
who are thankful to Him), and the followers respond in these
words: "Rabbana laka-l-Hamd" (our Lord praise be to You).
—Csiz>