What is the ruling on congregational prayer (Jama'ah) for naked individuals (Uraah)?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Congregational prayer is legislated for naked people. This position is held by Qatadah. Evidence for this obligation is the saying of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: "A man's prayer in congregation is superior to his prayer alone by twenty-seven degrees," which is general for every worshipper. The congregation is not waived due to difficulty in the stationing arrangement, similar to a situation where the space is too narrow for the Imam to stand in front.
Supporting text
Malik, Al-Awza'i, and the people of opinion (Ahl al-Ra'y) state that they should pray individually, and Malik added that they should keep some distance from each other. Al-Shafi'i, in his older opinion, agreed with them. Another view from Al-Shafi'i holds that congregation and individual prayer are equal because congregation leads to neglecting the Sunnah of stationing, and individual prayer neglects the virtue of congregation.