A Junior Moving Back Slightly from a Senior after the Prayer

Question

Quite often, in some places, students and teachers take part in the congregation. When the imam gives the salam, the student who is next to his teacher shifts back. What is [the ruling on] this act, and what is [the ruling on] remaining seated level [with him]? If both are acceptable, which is better?

Answer

Remaining seated level is acceptable, and shifting back and sitting is also acceptable out of respect (adab). This is neither something to insist upon nor something to censure.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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