Imams, particularly in Sunni Islam, represent the Prophet Muhammad and serve as spiritual and community leaders. In the mosque, they lead prayers and are responsible for mastering--and preferably memorizing--the Qur'an, as well as the schools of thought related to proper social and religious conduct. In addition, imams work with members of the mosque community regarding their everyday lives and relationships. In general, then, an ideal imam's qualities will likely include intelligence, a sense of duty to God and fellow believers, and, an ability to work with many types of people.

History

The office of imam began near the end of Muhammad's life when he was too ill to lead in person. With prayer a central activity of Muslim spiritual life, Muhammad appointed his father-in-law Abu Bakr, someone respected for his knowledge of Islam as well as his moral reputation.

Responsibilities

An imam's primary responsibility, particularly among Sunnis, is to lead community prayer. Though women cannot lead men in prayer, they may lead other women. Though these leaders occasionally deliver sermons, such messages are more commonly presented by Sheikhs, or elders. Crucially, imams remain available for community members to question regarding Muslim doctrine.

Characteristics

According to Abdul Aziz Kamal in his book "Everyday Fiqh," a Sunni imam should be the "best man" in a body of believers regarding "matters of knowledge, righteousness, spirit of sacrifice and insight into religion," as well as someone who holds "leadership qualities to guide them in the practical affairs of life." In other words, he should be a knowledgeable, competent and moral member of the community.

*At Habibi Matrimonials we only allow Sunni Imams to join, to stamp out the fitna factor with the present five Imams we have with us!