Q 1: When the Imam says “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest) some people say "`Azza wa Jall" (Exalted be He) then say Takbir (saying, ''Allahu Akbar" [Allah is the Greatest]'') for commencing Salah (Prayer). Is this permissible? A: The Ma`mum (a person being led by an Imam in Prayer) should say Takbir after the Imam when he says Takbir. This was authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them). It is not permitted for a person who is offering Salah behind an Imam to say that before saying Takbir since the Companions (Part No. 6; Page No. 247

A: The Ma`mum (a person being led by an Imam in Prayer) should say Takbir after the Imam when he says Takbir. This was authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them). It is not permitted for a person who is offering Salah behind an Imam to say that before saying Takbir since the Companions (Part No. 6; Page No. 247) and Salaf (righteous predecessors) of the Muslim Ummah did not do so. Q 2: What is the ruling on delaying offering `Isha' (Night) Prayer for a group who are constantly together? Is it preferable to delay it or not? A: Muslims should offer prayer in congregation in Masjids (mosques). If the Imam delays Salah for a legal benefit provided that the time of the Salah does not expire, the follower of the Imam is to wait for the Imam to offer Salah with him.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.