Islamicbeliefs and articles of faith . 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.
Origins – A Question of Leadership
The division between Shia and Sunni dates back to the death of the
Prophet Muhammad, andthe 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 friendand advisor, Abu Bakr, became
the first Caliph ofthe 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
bin Abu Talib . 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 isshortened 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).
Distribution
Sunni Muslims make up the majority (85%) of Muslims all over the
world. Significant populations of Shia Muslims can be found in Iran
and Iraq, and large minority communities in Yemen, Bahrain, Syria, and
Lebanon.
Differences in Religious Practice
From this initial question of political leadership, some aspects of
spiritual life have been affected and now differ between the two
groups of Muslims.
It is important to remember that despite these differences in opinion
and practice, Shia and Sunni Muslims share the main articles ofIslamic
belief and are considered by most to be brethren in faith. In fact,
most Muslims do not distinguish themselves byclaiming membership in
any particular group, but prefer to call themselves simply, "Muslims."
Religious Leadership
Shia Muslims believe that the Imam is sinless by nature, and that his
authority is infallible as itcomes directly from God. Therefore, Shia
Muslims often venerate the Imamsas saints and perform pilgrimages to
their tombs and shrines in the hopes of divine intercession.
Sunni Muslims counter that there is no basis in Islam for a hereditary
privileged class of spiritual leaders, and certainly no basis for the
veneration or intercession of saints. Sunni Muslims contend that
leadership of the community is not a birthright, but a trust that is
earned and which may be given or taken away by the people themselves.
Religious Texts and Practices
Shia Muslims also feel animosity towards some of the companions of the
Prophet Muhammad, based on their positions and actions during the
early years of discord about leadership in the community. Many of
these companions ( Abu Bakr , Umar ibn Al Khattab , Aisha, etc.) have
narrated traditions aboutthe Prophet's life and spiritual practice.
Shia Muslims reject these traditions ( hadith ) and do not base any of
their religious practices on thetestimony of these individuals. This
naturallygives rise to some differences in religious practice between
the two groups. These differences touch all detailed aspects of
religious life: prayer, fasting, pilgrimage, etc.
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And Allah Knows the Best!
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Published by :->
M NajimudeeN Bsc- INDIA
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