What is the recommended positioning for the Imam during congregational prayer?
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The Imam is recommended to stand directly facing the middle of the first row. This is supported by the Prophet's saying: "Straighten the Imam and fill the gaps," narrated by Abu Dawud. It is disliked for the Imam to stand in the niche (*taq*) of the Qibla, unless the mosque is narrow.
Supporting text
The standing of the Imam in the niche was disliked by Ibn Masud, Alqamah, Al-Hasan, and Ibrahim. Conversely, Sa'id ibn Jubayr, Abu Abd al-Rahman al-Sulami, and Qays ibn Abi Hazim performed it. The reasoning against it is that it obstructs the view of some followers from the Imam, similar to placing a partition between them.