The short answer
In most contexts an imam is the person who leads the congregational prayer and, in many mosques, teaches, gives the Friday sermon, and advises the community. Any adult Muslim with the necessary knowledge can lead prayer; there is no ordination and no priesthood. An imam is not an intermediary between people and God.
A little more context
In Shia Islam the term Imam, with a capital letter, refers to the divinely guided leaders from the Prophet’s family who hold religious authority after him. Sunni Muslims also call the founders of the major legal schools imams as a title of respect. Context usually makes clear which meaning is intended.
Sources & further reading
- Qur’an 2:124 Abraham appointed a leader, an imam, for people.
- Sahih Muslim 673a Who should lead the prayer.
Original introductory summary, not a direct scripture translation. Prepared 21 October 2026. Qualified human religious review is pending. About our editorial approach.