Dislike of the Imam standing on a higher level than the followers
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
It is disliked (*makruh*) for the Imam to be on a level higher than the followers, whether he intends to teach them or not. This is the opinion of Malik, Al-Awza'i, and the proponents of opinion. Evidence supporting the view that it is not disliked comes from Ahmad, who interpreted the Prophet's action on the pulpit as indicating permissibility for slight elevation.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i preferred the Imam to stand on an elevation to be seen by those behind him for instruction, citing the hadith of Sahl ibn Sa'd. However, strong evidence indicates prohibition, such as 'Ammar ibn Yasir being pulled down from a platform by Hudhayfah, who cited the Prophet's command that the Imam should not stand in a place higher than the station of the followers. This prohibition is due to the necessity of lifting the gaze, which is disliked in prayer.