To understand the religious and social system in Muslim society, it is very important to know the importance of positions like Maulvi, Qazi and Imam and how their roles are different from each other. Generally people consider these three to be the same but the truth is that their responsibilities are completely different. While Maulvis are scholars and religious teachers who impart Islamic teachings, Qajas play the role of religious judges who administer justice under Shariat law. Imams, on the other hand, lead the prayers in the mosque and provide spiritual direction to the society.
These three posts have their own importance in the Muslim community. In Islam, Maulvi is considered the source of knowledge, Qazi is considered the protector of justice and Imam is the symbol of religious leadership. In this way, this triveni keeps the religious, educational and judicial system of Islamic society balanced.
Maulvi
Meaning of the name:
The word Maulvi is derived from Maulana, which means guru or religious teacher.
What is their work?
- Maulvi is considered a scholar who imparts Islamic education.
- These usually teach the Quran, Hadith, prayers, Arabic language and Sharia rules to children and youth in Madrassas (Islamic schools).
- A Maulvi is a person with knowledge of Islam, who advises people to live life according to the principles of the religion.
- You can call him Islamic teacher or guru.
Example:
Just as teachers teach in schools, in the same way Maulvis teach children about Islam in Madrassas.
Kazi
Meaning of the name:
Qazi means judge. They are also called religious judges.
What is their work:
- The main job of a Qazi is to give justice according to Shariat (Islamic law).
- In Muslim society, Qazi decides marriage, divorce, will, inheritance, fights and disputes.
- In earlier times, Qazi was appointed by the King or Sultan, so that he could run the court according to Islamic laws.
- The work of Qazi is judicial, that is, he gives punishment or decision to people according to religious law.
Example:
If there is a divorce or property dispute in a Muslim family, it is decided by the Qazi as per Shariat.
imam
Meaning of the name:
Imam means leader or guide.
What is their work?
- Imam leads the prayers in the mosque.
- He leads people of other Muslim religions in the five-time prayers and Jumma (Friday) prayers.
- Imam shows the right path to the people through the Quran, Imam is considered the spiritual guide of the people of Muslim religion.
- The work of Imam is mainly to conduct religious rituals and make people aware about religion.
Example:
When prayers are offered in a mosque, the person who stands at the front and leads the entire prayer is the Imam.
