Islam is the world's second-largest religion, with over 1.8 billion followers.

 

Islam is the world's second-largest religion, with over 1.8 billion followers. It is a monotheistic religion that believes in one God, Allah, and in Muhammad as his final prophet. Muslims follow the Quran, which they believe is the word of God revealed to Muhammad.

There are two main branches of Islam: Sunni and Shia. Sunnis make up about 85% of Muslims, while Shias make up about 15%. 

The main difference between Sunnis and Shias is their belief about who should have succeeded the Prophet Muhammad after his death.

Sunnis believe that the successor should be chosen by the community, while Shias believe that the successor should be a descendant of Muhammad.

Here are some of the key differences between Sunni and Shia Islam:

Sunnis: 

 • Believe that the successor to the Prophet Muhammad should be chosen by the community.

• Have a more elaborate religious hierarchy, with a clear line of succession of Imams.

• Tend to interpret the Quran more figuratively.

• Give more importance to the Ijma (consensus of the scholars).

• Have a more centralized religious authority.Have a more decentralized religious authority.

Shias:

• Believe that the successor to the Prophet Muhammad should be a descendant of Muhammad.

• Have a less elaborate religious hierarchy.

• Tend to interpret the Quran more literally.

• Give more importance to the Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad).

In addition to these theological differences, there are also some practical differences between Sunni and Shia Islam. 

For example, Sunnis and Shias pray differently, with Sunnis praying five times a day and Shias praying three times a day. Sunnis also typically cross their arms when they pray, while Shias typically keep their arms by their sides.

Despite their differences, Sunnis and Shias share many core beliefs and practices. Both believe in the five pillars of Islam: the Shahada (declaration of faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). They also both believe in the Quran and the Hadith.

The Sunni-Shia split is one of the oldest and most significant divisions in Islam. It has had a profound impact on the history of the Muslim world, and it continues to be a source of conflict and tension today. However, it is important to remember that Sunnis and Shias are both Muslims, and they share many of the same beliefs and practices.

"Peace be upon you"

Unlikely Buddha 2023