Imamate of an unmarried man

Question

A certain man is a widower; he is knowledgeable, sane, adult, a young man, and not impotent. How is it to appoint such a man as the permanent imam? He does not even mention marriage. Does prayer behind a married man carry greater merit and dignity, or is there some difference? Please write the answer according to the noble Sacred Law, with a reference. Explain, and be rewarded.

Answer

If lust (shahwa) does not overpower him, then marriage is not necessary for him, and this does not impair his imamate. However, if lust overpowers him and his thoughts are scattered, then, compared with him, it is better (afdal)

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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