Defining the condition of connected rows (*ittisal as-sufuf*)
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The meaning of connected rows is that there is no distance between them that is customarily considered separated, and which prevents the possibility of following the Imam.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i is reported to have defined the extent of connection as less than three hundred cubits. However, definitions related to limitations require authoritative textual basis or consensus, which is absent here; therefore, the matter must revert to custom, similar to separation and possession.