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
Qibla (Prayer Direction)
The direction toward the Kaaba in Mecca, which Muslims face during prayer.
Kaaba (Allah's Sacred House)
The holiest building in Islam, in Mecca, toward which all Muslims face in prayer.
Hijri (Islamic Calendar)
The Islamic lunar calendar, which begins with the Prophet's migration to Medina.
Ikhlas (Sincerity)
Pure sincerity in worship — acting solely for the sake of Allah.
Mab'ath (The Prophet's Calling)
The day when Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation and was called to prophethood.
Sajdah (Prostration)
Prostration with the forehead on the ground — the most humble position in prayer.