A Islamic religious leader who leads prayers in a mosque or serves as a spiritual guide for Muslims.
From Arabic 'imām' (leader, example), from 'amma' (to lead or rule). The word entered English via Islamic texts and diplomatic relations in the 16th century, maintaining its original meaning.
The title 'imam' is incredibly diverse—it can mean anything from a local mosque prayer leader to a major political and religious authority, which is why the same word describes someone very local and someone who influences millions.
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