What is the difference between these two great currents of the Islamic religion?
Sunnism is an Islamic school of thought based on the teachings of the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, as compiled and taught by the Companions of the Prophet and by their immediate successors, the Caliphs of Islam . Sunnis are in the majority in many Muslim-majority countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and Pakistan. They are in the minority in Iran, Iraq and Syria, where Shiites are in the majority.
Shiism is an Islamic school of thought based on the teachings of the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, as compiled and taught by the Shia Caliphs, who are considered the true successors of the Prophet. Shiites are a minority in most Muslim-majority countries, but they are a majority in Iran, Iraq and Syria. Shiites are also present in small groups in other countries of the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia.
When was Islam created?
Islam was founded in the 7th century, when the Prophet Muhammad received the revelations that were recorded in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. According to Islamic tradition, Muhammad was chosen by God to be the last prophet of Islam and to convey His message to mankind. The early Muslims were the companions of the Prophet and those who believed in him and his teachings. Islam quickly spread throughout the Arab world and beyond, and today it is one of the most widespread religions in the world, with millions of followers worldwide.
What are the differences between Sunnism and Shiism?
There are several fundamental differences between Sunnism and Shiism. Here are some of the most important differences:
Succession of Prophet Muhammad: According to Sunnis, the first Caliph, Abu Bakr, was chosen by the Muslim community as the successor of Prophet Muhammad. The Shiites, on the other hand, believe that the first caliph, Ali ibn Abi Talib, was the true successor of the Prophet and that subsequent caliphs have been illegitimate.
Role of Imams: According to the Shiites, imams (religious leaders) are infallible spiritual guides who have been chosen by God and who have the power to give authoritative interpretations of Islam. Sunnis, on the other hand, place less importance on imams and do not believe that they have an infallible role as spiritual guides.
Theology: Sunnis and Shias have significant theological differences, especially regarding the nature of God and the nature of Islam.
Rites and customs: Sunnis and Shiites have differences in religious rituals and customs, especially with regard to prayers and marriage ceremonies.
Jurisprudence: Sunnis and Shiites have slightly different codes of Islamic law, although both are based on Sharia (Islamic law).
It is important to note that these differences are not exhaustive and that there are many other differences between Sunnism and Shiism. Additionally, it is important to point out that despite these differences, Sunnis and Shias share many common views and beliefs and are both branches of Islam.
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