the third: that the isnād of al-Ṭabarānī includes two individuals named Layth, both of whom are weak. (Benefit): al-Khaṭṭābī said in "Maʿālim al-Sunan" (1/334): "I said: The meaning of 'softness of the shoulder' is to maintain tranquility in prayer and calmness therein, not turning around nor having one's shoulder touch the shoulder of one's companion. There may be another aspect, which is not to resist someone who wishes to enter between the rows to fill a gap or due to lack of space. Rather, allow him to do so, and do not push him away with your shoulder so that the rows remain aligned and the congregation remains close-knit." I said: this second meaning is the one that is most apparent from the ḥadīth, and the first meaning is far removed from its context for those who contemplate it. This is supported by the wording of the ḥadīth of Ibn ʿUmar with Abū Dāwūd (666) as marfūʿ: "Straighten the rows. Align the shoulders and fill the gaps, and be gentle with your brothers' hands, and do not leave gaps for Satan. Whoever connects a row, Allāh will connect him, and whoever cuts off a row, Allāh will cut him off." Its isnād is authentic as al-Nawawī said (1), for it clarifies that the command to be gentle is for filling the gaps and connecting the rows. Therefore, Abū Dāwūd said afterward: "The meaning of 'be gentle with your brothers' hands' is that if a man comes to the row and attempts to enter it, each man should soften his shoulder for him so he can enter the row." Therefore, al-Nawawī used it as evidence in "al-Majmūʿ" (4/301) that "it is recommended to make space for someone who wishes to enter the row..." It is not hidden from anyone who loves the sunnah and is knowledgeable about it that al-Khaṭṭābī's statement: