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The ĥazan leads the prayers throughout the services. (Sometimes he sets the pace, and the congregation recites the prayers along with him. Sometimes, for devarim she-bikedusha, he recites the prayer on his own and the congregation responds “Amen.”) The ĥazan is also considered the shli’aĥ tzibbur (representative of the congregation). Therefore, a ĥazan should be a man of integrity who is well-liked, has a pleasant voice, and can read the prayerbook fluently. He should also be dressed in a manner fitting for someone representing the congregation before God. For Shabbat and holidays, it is especially important to make sure the ĥazan has a good voice and musical talent, to rise to the challenge of the long service and the extensive singing. For the Days of Awe and fast days, it is especially important for the ĥazan to be God-fearing, humble, and with a good reputation.
It is forbidden for anyone to impose himself on the congregation and lead the services if the congregation or the gabbai (a layman who helps ensure the services run smoothly) have not asked him to do so. If a person does so anyway, the congregation should not respond “Amen” to his blessings.
