IMAM IN ISLAM

By  Huda , Islam Expert
What does an imam do? The imam leads Islamic prayer and services, but may also take on a
larger role in providing community support and spiritual advice.
How is an imam chosen?
An imam is selected at the community level. Members of the
community choose someone who is considered knowledgeable
and wise. The imam should know and understand the Quran , and
be able to recite it correctly and nicely. The imam is a respected
member of the community. In some communities, an imam may
be specifically recruited and hired, and may have undergone some
special training. In other (smaller) cities, imams are often chosen
from among the existing members of the Muslim community.
There is no universal governing body to supervise imams; this is
done at the community level.
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What does an imam do?
The primary responsibility of an imam is to lead Islamic worship
services. In fact, the word "imam" itself means "to stand in front of"
in Arabic, referring to placement of the imam in front of the
worshippers during prayer. The imam recites the verses and words
of prayer, and the people follow his movements. During the
service, he stands facing away from the worshipers, toward the
direction of Makkah.
For each of the five daily prayers , the imam is present at the
mosque to lead the prayers. On Friday, the imam usually delivers
the khutba (sermon). The imam also leads the taraweeh (nightly
prayers during Ramadan), either alone or with a partner to share
the duty. The imam also leads all other special prayers, such as for funerals, prayers for rain,
prayers during an eclipse, and more.
What other role does an imam serve in the community?
In addition to being a prayer leader, the imam may also serve as a member of the larger
leadership team in a Muslim community. As a respected member of the community, the
imam's counseling may be sought in personal or religious issues. One may ask him for
spiritual advice, help with a family issue, or in other times of need. The imam may be involved
in visiting the sick, engaging in inter-faith service programs, officiating marriages, and
organizing educational gatherings in the mosque. In modern times, the imam is increasingly in
a position to educate and reform youth away from radical or extremist viewpoints. Imams
reach out to youth, inspire them in peaceful pursuits, and teach them the correct
understanding of Islam -- in the hopes that they will not fall prey to misguided teachings and
resort to violence.
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