Aiding The Khatib and Imam

Aiding the Khatib and Imam by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Zayd ibn Muhammad al-Madkhali is a concise yet deeply beneficial treatise (145 pages) designed to guide mosque leaders—khatibs and imams—towards correct understanding and practice of their responsibilities.  The author divides the work into two main sections: an ʿAqīdah Collection and a Fiqh Collection, addressing both theological and jurisprudential matters that affect an imam’s role. 

In the ʿAqīdah part, the Shaykh answers critical questions about creed, affirming the foundational beliefs that an imam must hold to lead correctly. He emphasizes the importance of sound theology for anyone who occupies positions of religious authority. In the Fiqh section, he delves into detailed rulings related to purification (wudūʾ, ghusl), various forms of prayer (congregational prayer, Friday prayer, the two Eid prayers, the prayer for rain, the eclipse prayer), and the washing of the deceased—offering concise yet authentic answers rooted in Qur’an and Sunnah. 

Shaykh al-Madkhali writes with clarity and precision. His work is not merely theoretical; it is explicitly intended for practical application by those serving in the masjid. The guidance helps imams protect themselves and their congregations from common legal and theological errors, ensuring that their leadership reflects sound scholarship and integrity. As noted by commentators, this book is beneficial for beginners in knowledge as well as established imams. 

For mosque committees, students of knowledge, and aspiring imams, this work is a valuable resource: it reinforces what it means to be an imam in the Ummah, focusing on both inner belief and outward practice in a balanced, Ahlus Sunnah-oriented manner.

The praise is for Allaah; may prayers and peace be upon the Messenger of Allaah, his family and companions. To Proceed: The noble Shaykh Muhammad ibn Zayd ibn Muhammad Al-Madkhalee, may Allaah grant him success, has sent to me his treatise, which he has titled:
إعانة الخطباء والأئمّة بفقه إمامة الأمة Aiding the Khatībs and Imāms in Understanding the Rulings of being an Imām within the Ummah. It is answers to questions contained within two compiled parts.:
The ‘Aqeedah Collection: There are questions connected to the ‘Aqeedah. The Fiqh Collection: This is questions connected to purification, prayer, the congregational prayer, Friday prayers, the two ‘Eid prayers, the prayer for seeking rain, the eclipse prayer, and washing the deceased. I focused on reading the ‘Aqeedah collection twice, and I see that he has been successful within it to give correct answers, in a manner that is succinct yet not devoid of important aspects.

Due to this, it is beneficial for the beginner student of knowledge as well as those who are in charge of being an Imam for the people. I encourage the students of knowledge to read it and to benefit from it. Written by Ahmad ibn Yahyaa An-Najmee (1/1/1428 h.)