imam(m): priest

Description of imam: An imam is an Islamic leader, from the Arabic im?m meaning "one who stands in front," typically guiding congregational prayers, offering religious counsel, and serving as a community exemplar. Unlike a priest in Christianity, an imam holds no sacramental authority like confession or Eucharist but emphasizes teaching Quran and Sunnah. Differs from a rabbi, who focuses on Torah interpretation without mandatory prayer leadership. In Urdu poetry, imams symbolize spiritual guides,