What is the definition of a neighbor in the context of the Prophet's statement regarding prayer near the mosque?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Bequests

Book 31 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Regarding the Prophet's statement, 'There is no prayer for the neighbor of the mosque except in the mosque,' 'Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, interpreted this to mean whoever hears the call (Adhan).

Supporting text

Saeed ibn Amr ibn Ja'dah interpreted it as whoever hears the Iqamah (second call to prayer). Abu Yusuf stipulated that neighbors are the people of the district (Mahalla) united by one mosque. If the district is divided between two small, close mosques, all are neighbors. If the mosques are large, then the neighbors are only those attached to each mosque. For large cities divided into tribes (Afkhadh), neighborhood is defined by the clan divisions.