What is the ruling for a follower who misses an essential action due to crowding, such as prostration on Friday?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If a person is prevented from prostration on Friday due to crowding, they wait until the crowding subsides, then prostrate, and follow the Imam, unless they fear missing the bowing in the second rak'ah with the Imam. This implies they perform what they missed, even if it is more than one pillar. This is supported by the action of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, during the Battle of Asfan when he led his companions in two ranks; the first rank prostrated while the second stood until the Prophet rose for the second rak'ah, then the second rank prostrated and followed him, which was permissible due to the excuse.
Supporting text
Malik's view is that if the follower reaches them during the beginning of their prostration, he prostrates with them and counts that rak'ah. If he knows he cannot bow and reaches them during prostration until they are all standing, he follows them in the remainder of their prayer, makes up one rak'ah, and then performs prostrations of forgetfulness (Sujud As-Sahw), although Al-Awza'i stated no prostrations of forgetfulness are required.