What do Sunni and Shia differ on?
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Sunni and Shia are two major sects within Islam that have some theological and historical differences. The main points of difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims are:
1. Succession of the Prophet Muhammad: The biggest historical difference lies in the disagreement over leadership after the death of Prophet Muhammad. Sunnis believe that the first four caliphs, including Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali, were rightful successors to the Prophet and selected through consultation (shura). Shia Muslims, on the other hand, believe that Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, as well as his descendants (imams), were the legitimate successors chosen by divine appointment.
2. Role of Imams: Shia Muslims believe in the concept of imamate, which means that the religious and political leadership of Muslims should be held by the infallible imams who are direct descendants of Prophet Muhammad through Ali and Fatima. They consider imams to have divine knowledge (ma'sum) and believe that they have the authority to interpret the Quran and Hadith. Sunni Muslims, while respecting the family of the Prophet, do not believe in the concept of imamate. They consider religious leadership to be based on knowledge and piety, and it is not limited to any particular lineage.
3. Religious Practices and Rituals: While there are many similarities in religious practices between Sunnis and Shias, there are also some minor differences. For instance, Shias often commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during the month of Muharram through processions and mourning rituals. Sunnis, though they respect the event, do not have these specific rituals. Additionally, Shias have certain distinctive practices like the recitation of Ziyarat (visitation) to the shrines of imams and the observance of Ashura as a day of mourning.
It is important to note that despite these historical and theological differences, Sunni and Shia Muslims focus on the common pillars of Islam, such as the belief in one God, prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage. The majority of the Muslim population worldwide is Sunni, while Shia Muslims are primarily concentrated in Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, and some parts of Lebanon, Pakistan, and India.