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Comparing The Beliefs And Practices Of Shia Islam

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Introduction

The aim of this paper is to study the essential beliefs and practices of Islam (Sunni Islam in particular), the evolution of the Hadith and to highlight the role it plays in Sunni Islam.

Definition and Distinction of Sunni Islam

Islam today is a conglomerate of various sects which are distinguished by a few varying beliefs and practices. Practices which do not contradict the most fundamental beliefs of Islam such as; the Six articles of Faith and the Five pillars of Islam. These factions are numerous in number however, there are majorly two Islamic sects namely; Sunni Islam and Shia Islam. But according to estimates, the majority of Muslims in the world are Sunnis. Just as it was mentioned in the introduction, our focus is on the Sunnis …show more content…

Sunnis believe that the first four caliphs were elected by the community, while Shiites believe that Ali, the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law, was the rightful leader (successor of the Prophet) and that the leadership should have been passed down through his descendants. Both have very logical reasons why there hold on to their beliefs. However, it has and will always be a battle of wits when it comes to the issues of legitimacy of power.

Another important difference between the two factions is their beliefs about the role of the Imams. Sunnis do not have a specific religious leader, while Shiites believe that the Imams, who are descendants of the Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima and her husband Ali, have a special spiritual and political role.

Lastly, Sunni Muslims adhere to the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions and hold that in understanding the Koran and the Prophet's teachings, consensus (ijma) and the application of reason (ijtihad) are crucial. The community's interpretation of the Qur'an and the Hadith is highly valued by

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