Q 3: What is the ruling on praying at home following an Imam in a Masjid (mosque) over the microphone and there are no connecting rows between the Imam and the followers, as is the case in Makkah and Al-Madinah during Hajj season?

(Part No. 8; Page No. 32)  A: According to the views of the Shafi`i school of jurisprudence and the opinion of Imam Ahmad, Salah is not valid unless the rows continue uninterrupted until they reach one's house and one is able to follow the Imam by seeing him or hearing his voice. If the condition mentioned does not exist, Salah is not valid. It is necessary for a Muslim to offer Salah in congregation in the Houses of Allah with his fellow Muslims. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated, "Whoever hears the call (Adhan) and does not come to (Salah), then there is no prayer for him except with an excuse.” Related by Ibn Majah, Al-Daraqutny, and Al-Hakim. Al-Hafizh said: Its Isnad (chain of narration) meets the conditions of Muslim. The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked the blind man who inquired whether he could pray in his house: Do you hear the call for prayer? The man replied, "Yes". The Messenger said, "Then respond." Related by Muslim in his Sahih (authentic) Book. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.