For a Seated Person to stand in the First Row

Q: Salaah-584: There are a few person in our Masjid who, because of a disability, are unable to stand and perform salaah. If they sit beside the Mu'adhin in the first row, they occupy extra space, which leaves a gap in the centre of the row and also inconveniences others. Will such people receive the rewards of salaah in Jamaa'ah if they sit at the ends of the rows or in the second or third rows? Where is it best for them to perform their salaah?

Answer: In the stated case, it will be best for these people to perform their salaah at the ends of the last row or any other row where there is space. They will, Inshaa Allaah, still receive the rewards of salaah in the first row. Shaami (Vol.1 Pg.532) states that when one fears inconveniencing others, it will be best to stand in the last row because Rasulullaah SAW. said, "The person who forsakes the first row for fear of inconveniencing another Muslim will receive double the reward of being in the first row." This is the opinion of both Imaam Abu Haneefah RAH. and Imaam Muhammad RAH. And Allaah knows best what is most correct.

Fatawa Rahimiyyah vol.2