describe the split in the Muslim community caused by Mohammed death
The split in the Muslim community after Muhammad's death, known as the First Fitna, was primarily due to disagreements over who should succeed him as the leader of the Islamic community. This division ultimately led to the formation of two major sects within Islam: the Sunni and Shia branches.
The Sunni Muslims believed that Abu Bakr, a close companion of Muhammad, should be the rightful caliph, or leader, of the Muslim community. They argued that leadership should be based on the consensus of the Muslim community and traditional Arab tribal customs.
On the other hand, Shia Muslims believed that Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, should be the rightful successor. They believed that leadership should be based on a divine appointment, and that the Prophet Muhammad had specifically designated Ali as his successor.
These differing views on leadership and succession led to a power struggle that resulted in the First Fitna, a period of civil war and conflict within the Muslim community. Despite efforts to reconcile the two factions, the split between Sunni and Shia Muslims remains to this day.