Imam (Prayer Leader)
The person who leads the congregational prayer at the mosque.
Imam (Arabic: إمام) means "leader" or "role model" and in the context of prayer refers to the person who leads the congregational prayer (salah) at the mosque. The imam stands at the front and the worshippers follow his movements.
Any adult Muslim with sufficient knowledge of the prayer and the Quran can serve as imam. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The one who has the most knowledge of Allah's Book should lead the prayer. If they are equal in this, then the one who has the most knowledge of the sunnah."
In many mosques, the imam is a full-time employed religious leader who also teaches, counsels and delivers sermons (khutbah). Imams play an important role in the Muslim community as religious guides and bridge-builders.
Related terms
Ijma' (Consensus)
Agreement among Islamic scholars on a legal question, considered the third source of Islamic law.
Tahajjud (Night Prayer)
The voluntary night prayer performed in the last third of the night.
Wilayah (Divine Authority)
The concept of divine authority and leadership in Shia Islam.
Sha'ban (The Prophet's Month)
The eighth Islamic month, with special emphasis on the 15th night.
Du'a (Personal Supplication)
Personal address and supplication to Allah for help and guidance.
Turbah (Prayer Stone)
A small clay tablet upon which Shia Muslims place their forehead during sujud.