Is it much better if one is closer to the Imam during performing the prayer while others are farer in the same first row?

Answer

Praise Be to Allah and Peace Be Upon His Messenger.

There are many hadiths which the prophet said which talk about how important it is to be in the first row behind the Imam. He said: “If people know the privilege that they can gain if they get in the first row immediately after Adhan, and they find no way to be there but by drawing lots, they will certainly draw lots.” Related by Bukhari.

This hadith means if they cannot get in the first row but by drawing lots to gain the great reward, they will do that since being in the first row means being a model for other Muslims who pray behind you. In other words, other Muslims will copy you. The prophet said: “Let those who are mature and prudent be nearest to me (in a prayer).” Related by Muslim. This hadith means that those who are mature, wise and knowledgeable should be behind the Imam since if the Imam needs any help while reciting Qur’an, they can dictate him.  

Being in the first row shows how a Muslim is interested in getting the great rewards. In contrast, being in the latter rows shows how they are lazy and not interested in getting the reward. The prophet said: “Some people will continue in keeping themselves away from the first row until Allah will put them away.” Related by Muslim.

Being exactly behind the Imam is not better than being farer from him in the first row. Actually, there are some hadiths which say that it is better to be exactly behind the Imam, but they are considered week. One of them is “if you can be exactly behind the Imam, (it is better), otherwise be at his right side.”

Finally, to be in the first row regardless of the position is better than being in the second row even if those who are in the second row are closer to the Imam than you.