Preserving the Book: Is it better to lead the congregation?

Question : Some people are memorizers of the Book of Allah the Exalted. When they go out with a congregation, they fear leading the congregation; they fear for themselves. Is it better for them not to lead, or is it better for them to lead?

Answer : No, it is better for him to lead. The one who leads the people is the one who is most proficient in recitation. It was not said, "Push aside the most proficient for the imamate." It was said, "The one who leads the people is the one who is most proficient in recitation." So it is better for him to lead, especially since he fears that someone with defects might lead.