What is the main difference between the Sunnis and the Shi A?

Those who followed the Prophet’s closest companion (Abu Bakr) became known as Sunni (the followers of the Prophet’s example – Sunnah). Those who followed the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law (‘Ali) became known as Shi’a (the followers of the Party of ‘Ali – Shi’atu Ali).

What are Sunni and Shi’a Muslims?

Muslims who believe that Abu Bakr should have been the Prophet’s successor have come to be known as Sunni Muslims. Those who believe Ali should have been the Prophet’s successor are now known as Shi’a Muslims. Sunni means ‘one who follows the Sunnah’ (what the Prophet said, did, agreed to or condemned).

Whats is Shi A?

Filters. The branch of Islam that believes that Ali succeeded Muhammad as leader, and that places emphasis on the prophet’s family. noun. One who follows Shi’a Islam; a Shiite.

Why did Islam split into Sunni and Shi A?

Though the two main sects within Islam, Sunni and Shia, agree on most of the fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam, a bitter split between the two goes back some 14 centuries. The divide originated with a dispute over who should succeed the Prophet Muhammad as leader of the Islamic faith he introduced.

Why are there differences between Sunni and Shi’a Muslims?

They also share the same holy book – the Qur’an. The reason there has been a split into different branches is due to differences in belief about who was the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad as leader of the Muslim community after his death.

Where does the name Sunni Islam come from?

Basic Beliefs of Sunni Islam. The name Sunni is derived from the word “Sunnah” which means “tradition.” This sect believes that they follow the true tradition of the prophet Muhammad. Sunni Muslims practice Islam as their interpretation of Islamic law guides them.

What’s the difference between a Sufi and a Sunni?

Sufi means a saint in the English language. Sunni and Sufi both follow Islam and have same beliefs but a Sunni is more involved with worldly matters whereas Sufi is more concerned with the world hereafter. Sunni follows the code of life sent by God in the form of Sunah and Quran.

What’s the difference between Ismaili and Sunni Muslims?

Sunnis believe strictly in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and strongly reject any introductions, exclusion and interpretations of Sunah. Sunni Muslims are in majority whereas Ismaili exists in minority in some parts of the world.