2006-09-11 16:55:37 · 6 answers · asked by M. A. S 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Hello, I'm not an expert, but I've wondered about this question myself, and done a little research.
The split between the Sunni (traditionalists) and Shia (followers) occurred shortly after the Prophet's death. Some people believed that Ali Ibn Abu Talib had been appointed as the successor to the Prophet, by the Prophet himself. Others believe that the rightful leader was the one chosen by the closest companions of the Prophet, Abu Bakr. Shia believe that the rightful leadership of the Muslim community is by appointment by the previous leader, and Sunnis believe it is by appointment by the previous leader, but they started out believing in different leaders, so there are two "chains" of leadership.
In fundamental belief, there really is no difference. Sunni and Shia both believe that there is only one God, and Mohammed is the messenger of God. There are differences in which hadiths, sayings of the Prophet, are accepted by each group, and this leads to minor differences in belief.
At least 98% of the "difference" is historical animosity, especially now that the "chains" of leadership from both sides have been broken, and both groups are led by scholars, not by appointed leaders.
2006-09-11 17:06:23 · answer #1 · answered by Smiley 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
first answerer was extreamly rubbish!!!
Sunni emphasias (forgive my spelling) on the prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) and his teachings.
Shiite emphasise on a friend of a prohet named Ali (may gods blessings be upon him).
In reality tho, there should be no Sunni or Shiite (Shia) muslims. As there was only 1 thing, and the Quran is the source of it all. No other books should be the true teachings of Islam only the Quran.
I hope i have answered your question.
2006-09-11 17:01:32 · answer #2 · answered by DudeWantsAnswers 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There are actual lots of differences. Shia believe the Caliphate should be reserved to the family of Mohommed. They have a more structured religious hierarchy. There are lots of other differences as well. See Below...
2006-09-11 18:44:07 · answer #3 · answered by zahir13 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Shiia only accept Ali as or should have been the successor (Calipha) after the prophet Mohammed (pbuh). For Sunni, Abu Bakar was the Calipha.
2006-09-11 17:01:19 · answer #4 · answered by Muslim 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Smileycatwhiskers answered quite correctly.
There is no major difference between Shiite and Sunni. All the basic beliefs and rituals are quite same.
2006-09-11 18:34:01 · answer #5 · answered by SFNDX 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
isnt it shiite and sunni?
well, im not an expert
but i think the shiite believe that only decendants of muhammed should be ruler
while sunni think everyone should have a chance
2006-09-11 16:57:53 · answer #6 · answered by uhohspaghettiohohs 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋