An imam is a religious leader in the Islamic religion. The role of an imam varies depending on the sect of Islam. For Sunni Muslims, an imam is most commonly used as the title of a prayer leader of a mosque. In this context, imams may lead Islamic prayers, serve as community leaders, and provide religious guidance. Anyone can study the basic Islamic sciences and become an imam in Sunni Islam. For Shia Muslims, an imam is not only presented as the man of God par excellence, but as participating fully in the names, attributes, and acts that theology usually reserves for God alone. Imams have a meaning more central to belief, referring to leaders of the community. Twelver and Ismaili Shia believe that these imams are chosen by God to be perfect examples for the faithful and to lead all humanity in all aspects of life.

In general, an imam is responsible for leading Muslim worshippers in prayer. They may also officiate at weddings and funerals, teach people about the Quran (the Muslim holy book) and the life of the Prophet Mohammed, and develop and oversee youth programs at their mosque. In most mosques, only men serve as imams, but in some countries or traditions, a woman may serve as an imam in special situations (e.g., women-only mosques and prayer groups) .