well as u know, today we have the sunni sect and the shia sect
well the sunni sect its not really a sect, its more of a label to distinguish them from the shias.
the differences between these two main sub-groups within Islam initially stemmed not from spiritual differences, but political ones. Over the centuries, however, these political differences have spawned a number of varying practices and positions which have come to carry a spiritual significance.
The division between Shia and Sunni dates back to the death of the Prophet Muhammad, and the question of who was to take over the leadership of the Muslim nation. Sunni Muslims agree with the position taken by many of the Prophet's companions, that the new leader should be elected from among those capable of the job. This is what was done, and the Prophet Muhammad's close friend and advisor, Abu Bakr, became the first Caliph of the Islamic nation. The word "Sunni" in Arabic comes from a word meaning "one who follows the traditions of the Prophet."
On the other hand, some Muslims share the belief that leadership should have stayed within the Prophet's own family, among those specifically appointed by him, or among Imams appointed by God Himself.
The Shia Muslims believe that following the Prophet Muhammad's death, leadership should have passed directly to his cousin/son-in-law, Ali. Throughout history, Shia Muslims have not recognized the authority of elected Muslim leaders, choosing instead to follow a line of Imams which they believe have been appointed by the Prophet Muhammad or God Himself. The word "Shia" in Arabic means a group or supportive party of people. The commonly-known term is shortened from the historical "Shia-t-Ali," or "the Party of Ali." They are also known as followers of "Ahl-al-Bayt" or "People of the Household" (of the Prophet).
From this initial question of political leadership, some aspects of spiritual life have been affected and now differ between the two groups of Muslims.
i answerd this previously
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AukUHi7c5heosI0n0oEnACLty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20071207203219AA3fLVP&show=7#profile-info-f1a94fb30e41570a2e8dbffbe893659aaa
2007-12-08 16:36:10
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answer #1
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answered by Ṣaḥābah . 5
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during Rasulullah saw time,there were no divisions nor wars between muslims itself..but,after Rasulullah saw died,there was a creack between Muslims..then,after centuries of Khulafa' Arrasyidin(Abu Bakar,Umar,Osman,Ali),there was a huge crack or division between muslims..and now,the crack became very big and there are many divisions of muslims..but,we are still muslims..still worshiping the same God..i mean the same one God..who is Allah..
there is no god except Allah..
and prophet Muhammad is His messenger..
Allahuakbar!!
2007-12-09 00:42:08
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answer #2
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answered by Amirul 5
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I donot really like these divisions.Allah said ''Bo one complete union and donot divide''
2007-12-09 00:43:15
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answer #3
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answered by Miss Zippy 2
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