what are the differences beteween Sunnis and Shiites?

Answer 1

The reason for the split in Islam into the Sunni group and Shi'a group is over who should be the leader of the Muslims after the death of Muhammad. The Sunni believe that the leader should be chosen by the approval of the Muslim community. To support this, they cite different hadith that mention Muhammad saying these things should be settled by elections. (Hadith are writings about Muhammad that are considered authoritative, but are not part of the Qur'an)

The Shi'a believe that the leader should be a direct descendant of Muhammad. They cite the fact that the successor of Muhammad was Ali, his cousin and that Muhammad said that anyone who called him master, should call Ali master.

Because of this split, different practices have developed between the two groups, mostly things abut their manner of worship, dress, and other customs.

About 85% of the Muslims in the world are Sunni, and about 15% Shi'a.

Answer 2

The great schism in Islam between the Sunnis (about 85 percent of Muslims today) and the Shiites occurred fairly early in the history of the religion, about a quarter of a century after the death of Muhammad. The source of the split was a violent disagreement over who should be recognized as the legitimate leader of the faith. To put a complicated issue in the simplest possible terms, Shiites supported the leadership of Ali, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law. Sunnis preferred another leader.

For a more detailed account of the schism, one good book to consult is "Islam: A Short History" by Karen Armstrong.

Answer 3

sunnis take note of just M o h a m e d and shias believe his son in law and grandsons had something useful to say