Hafiz literally means "memorizer", depending on the context, and is a term used by Muslims for someone who has completely memorized the Quran. Hafiza is the female equivalent. Although Hafiz does not have formal authority like an aalim or a mufti, in places where scholars are scarce, they are frequently consulted and often made an imam. Resultantly, Hafiz becomes the leader of his community and the go-to person for religious knowledge, counseling, and other religious disputes.