Written by: Nancy Khalek
In Sunni Islam, imams are crucial for the performance of rites associated with birth and death, the drawing up of marriage contracts, the performance of communal prayer and weekly sermons, and the day-to-day counseling and leadership of a congregation. Sunni imams generally receive training at religious schools, though the processes vary and there is no single curriculum. In addition, these systems of education are locally shaped, and since Islam does not have a single governing board or leader, there is a great deal of variety in the way in which these scholars are trained. Imams do not practice celibacy, and often have other jobs or roles in the communities they serve.
Leadership within a religious community becomes especially relevant in moments of transition and crisis. Major life changes such as a marriage or the birth of a child call for the consultation or presence of a person familiar with the shariah and who can assure congregants that they conduct their ceremonies in accordance with the Sunna of Muhammad. Since Sunnis try to emulate the Prophet in daily life, following customary practice for the celebration of major life events such as weddings or funerals is particularly emphasized in Sunni communities. Furthermore, Islamic law is relevant to contractual relationships and commercial relationships affected by marriage, birth, or death. Consulting with a religious scholar or imam ensures that these types of issues - marriage contracts, inheritance distributions, and even commercial partnerships - are drawn up according to Islamic law. This kind of guidance is particularly important to Muslim communities living in majority non-Muslim countries, where people seek to blend observance of their beliefs with the civil codes and social traditions of the countries in which they reside.
Imams also shepherd their communities through the crises and challenges they face, including divorce and death. The application of both Islamic law and the Sunna are important elements of these events and the effect they have on their communities, and imams bring their knowledge and training to bear on these difficult situations. They often consult with individuals seeking advice about marriage, or act as counselors to families seeking guidance on issues such as child-rearing or education. As such, imams serve as pastors for their communities. The imam is also often seen as a representative of a community, and as such, especially in majority non-Muslim countries, can act as a liaison with local government, school boards, or even police forces.