Validity of following an Imam who is on a higher level within the same mosque
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
It is permissible for the follower to be equal to or higher than the Imam, such as when praying on a rooftop or a high platform within the mosque. This view is held by Abu Hurayrah, Salim, Al-Shafi'i, and the proponents of the opinion (*Ashab ar-Ra'y*). The basis is that both parties are within the mosque, the Imam is not elevated externally, and thus they are considered equal for the sake of following, and the continuity of the rows is not a condition if both are inside the mosque.
Supporting text
Malik required a repetition of the Friday prayer if performed following an Imam on the rooftop of the mosque. Furthermore, it is established in the school that if the follower is at the farthest part of the mosque, and there is nothing obstructing passage and visibility between them and the Imam, the following is valid even if the rows are not physically connected, because the mosque is established for congregation.