10-08-2003, 07:34 AM
as salam alykom brother Dan
First off welcome to the board and no your thread does not look agitating, on the contrary it reflects nothing but concern about the religion Mash aAllah. I don't claim myself a scholar, but yes I know this hadeeth very well, I also know another narration where the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم repeated salat on time three times before moving to other items. Now I think what u r putting here raises much concern la hawla walaqowata ila billah. My suggestion is to seek other brothers who can be logical, talk to them about it, how important prayer is, then organize yourselves and discuss with those in charge of masjid. Tell them it is essential to do it the way Allah wants it not us. This is very threatening as u just put it. It could be a beginning for more innovation. Before doing so, make Salatul haja (2 raka`a extra and them make dua for Allah to help, assist, and support u on your effort).
Also before talking to people in charge read ayatul korsi in order to avoid any inteception of Shaytan. You know of course that shaytan leaves no chance to do so specially when it comes to discussion between muslims. And may Allah help u brother.
BTW I am not living in the US so i really don't know if this is applied other places, may be our US resident members can also say somthing here.