Reserving Spots In Mosques
Q: I’ve noticed disputes in the mosque over seating arrangements, with one individual claiming they had reserved a specific spot. Is such a claim permissible?
A: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated, “Mina is a resting place for whoever arrives first,” as reported by Tirmidhi (881) and considered a good hadith. This implies that individuals are not entitled to reserve spaces for worship; rather, the right belongs to the person who arrives first. This principle is particularly pertinent in mosques, which are the houses of Allah and not personal property.
However, there are three scenarios in which “reserving” a space is acceptable: if an individual momentarily leaves their spot for a need such as performing ablution, without intending to be away indefinitely. The other exception applies to mosque officials, such as Imams, muezzins, educators, or employees, who might need to reserve space for conducting lessons or similar activities.
Imam Nawawi, Allah bless him stated: “Our colleagues made an exception for the one who is accustomed to a place in the mosque where he gives fatwas, or teaches the Quran or other Islamic sciences. He has more right to it, and if he arrives, others do not have the right to sit there” from “Sharh of Sahih Muslim” (14/160).
A third allowance is for the elderly or people with accessibility needs.
This highlights that those who are dedicated to teaching or guiding others in Islamic practices within the mosque have a special consideration regarding their accustomed places.
Allah knows
Suhaib Webb