The split between Sunni and Shi'a Islam goes back to the days just after the Prophet Muhammad's death in 632 CE, when Muslims disagreed about who should lead them.

The Question of Leadership

Muhammad had not clearly named a successor. Most Muslims believed the new leader (the caliph) should be chosen by the community for their good character and faith. They picked Muhammad's close friend Abu Bakr. These Muslims became the Sunnis - from sunnah, "the way of the Prophet".

A smaller group believed Muhammad had pointed to his cousin and son-in-law Ali as his rightful successor, because he was from the Prophet's family. This group became the Shi'a - from shi'at Ali, "the party of Ali".

The Tragedy of Karbala

In 680 CE, Ali's son Husayn was killed at the Battle of Karbala in Iraq. Shi'a Muslims remember this every year at the festival of Ashura, mourning Husayn's death as a symbol of standing up to injustice.

Sunni and Shi'a Today

About 85% of Muslims worldwide are Sunni; the remaining 15% are mostly Shi'a, with majorities in Iran, Iraq, Bahrain and parts of Lebanon. Both groups share the same Five Pillars, the same Qur'an, and the same belief in Muhammad as the final prophet. The main differences are in leadership, history, certain prayer practices, and some festivals.

Y9 Islam

Sunni and Shi'a Islam