As far a their religious beliefs go, what is the difference?
2006-11-14 05:11:11 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
The actual difference between Shiite and Sunni goes to a disagreement as to who should succeed the prophet as caliph. A few trivial rituals and some clothing differences and who is boss of all Muslims in matters of faith and law round out the actual differences.
There are a number of differences in the Shi`ah (Shiite) and the Sunni Juristic opinions. However, not all these differences can be termed as the "basic differences" in these two major sects of Islam. The basic difference in the two sects is that of the Shiite faith of the system of "Imamah". The Shiite faith of "Imamah" implies that after the Prophet (pbuh), there shall be no other prophet, but the only true leader of the Muslims, at any given time, is an "Imam" who, like the prophets of God, is directly appointed by God. The appointment of the first "Imam" was made by God through the last Prophet (pbuh), while every subsequent "Imam" is appointed through the "Imam", who precedes him. Another qualification of the "Imam", according to the Shiite belief is that he shall belong to the family of the last Prophet (pbuh). The Shiite belief holds that the "Imams", like the prophets of God, are "ma`soom" (sinless, innocent) and, therefore, should be obeyed in all matters and under all circumstances. The "Imams", according to the Shiite faith, are thus not just the political leaders of the Muslims but also their religious leaders and clergy. The Sunni school, on the other hand, does not ascribe to any such belief.
2006-11-14 05:12:54 · answer #1 · answered by Justsyd 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Sunni's are more secular. Kind of like the difference between Methodist and far right born again Christian denominations.
2006-11-14 13:16:08 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think it has to do with whom they believe should be the appropriate successor of Mohammed. I think the Sunnis believe that anyone can become a caliph, but the Shiites believe only people from the lineage of Mohammed can become a caliph.
2006-11-14 13:16:03 · answer #3 · answered by FUNdie 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
similar to the differences between the hatfield clan and the mccoy clan.
2006-11-14 13:15:20 · answer #4 · answered by Ovrtaxed 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is spelt "Shi'ite" as if you didn't know. Although your question made me laugh I am ashamed to say.
2006-11-14 13:13:58 · answer #5 · answered by Teacher 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋