What is the ruling on the followers' prayer if the Imam does not correct himself after notification?
Chapter on the Two Prostrations of Forgetfulness
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If the followers alert the Imam and he does not return to the correct action in a situation where correction is obligatory, his prayer becomes invalid. This ruling is explicitly stated. If the followers nonetheless follow him, their status depends on their knowledge: if they know following him is forbidden, their prayer is invalidated because they intentionally abandoned an obligation. If they follow him out of ignorance regarding the prohibition, their prayer remains valid. This is supported by the actions of the Companions who followed the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the Hadith of Dhu al-Yadayn and when he prayed five units, and they did not have to repeat their prayer.
Supporting text
There are differing views on the obligation of the followers when the Imam errs and refuses correction. One narration suggests they are not permitted to follow him nor must they wait for him; if they separate and conclude their prayer, it is valid. Another view suggests they should follow him in rising out of juristic preference (istihsan). A third opinion advises that they should not follow him, nor conclude their prayer before him, but should wait for him to conclude with them. The first view is preferred because the Imam is in error by failing to follow the notification, and following error is not permissible.