Comparative Analysis of Sunni and Shi'ite Islam: Origins, Beliefs, and Conflicts

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Comparative Analysis of Sunni and Shi'ite Islam: Origins, Beliefs, and Conflicts

Introduction

Islam, one of the world's major religions, stands out due to its rich diversity and long history reflected by multiple interpretations and sects within its fold. Out of these groups, Sunnis and Shi'ites make up the vast majority of Muslims worldwide. While they share similar fundamental beliefs, these two groups have become estranged due to significant theological, political, and cultural distinctions, which sometimes cause conflicts. The roots of this conflict can be traced back to when Muhammad died and disputes about who should succeed him, sparking Sunni-Shi'ite divisions and starting this ongoing bloodbath. This essay examines the complexities surrounding two primary Islamic factions, their formation and claims of legitimacy, and any major distinctions or similarities among them. Besides, this analysis attempts to pinpoint the sources of conflict between both groups and shed light on social, political, and economic matters - not simply fundamental theological differences - as key pillars for resolution. Sunni and Shi'ite Muslims share common religious roots; however, their diverging viewpoints regarding the legitimacy of practices, practices themselves, leadership responsibilities, and leadership styles have played an enormous role in driving their separation in recent decades. However, violence between these groups often stems from sociopolitical forces rather than religious differences alone.

Origin and Legitimacy

The roots of Sunni and Shi'ite Islam go back to Prophet Muhammad in 632 AD and his succession dispute; Sunnis held onto Abu Bakr as their rightful successor, whereas Shi'ites believed Ali, Muhammad's cousin-in-law and son-in-law, as God's chosen successor (Lumbard, 2016). Sunni Islam accounts for 85-90% of worldwide Muslim populations and can generally be defined as an orthodox branch, adhering to that religious group (Ummah) as defined by Prophet Muhammad, adhering to his four successors who became caliphs after him (Lumbard, 2016). On the other hand, Shi'ite Islam makes up most of the remaining Muslim populace, placing major importance on Ali and his successors (The Imams), being spiritual and political figures of legitimacy (Nasr, 2006).

Differences between Sunni and Shi'ite Islam

One of the primary distinctions between Sunni and Shi'ite Islam is their respective religious leaders and legal systems. In Sunni Islam, religious authority rests with Ulama scholars, who interpret religious texts and issue legal decisions (fatwas). Sunni fiqh or law relies heavily on Hadith from Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam, along with consensus (ijma) or analogy (qiyas) (Brown, 2009). Shi'ite Islam features an order of clerics known as Ayatollahs as their top religious authorities, representing divinely inspired figures like the Hidden Imam, who is thought to remain hidden until his return at some point. Shi'ite Jurisprudence or Ja'fari incorporates both logic ('aql) and independent judgment (ijtihad) alongside Quranic verse and Hadith texts for interpretation (Kadivar, 2003). Sunnis and Shi'ites also differ significantly regarding beliefs; Shi'ites mourn Imam Hussein Ali's son during Muharram month, while Sunnis do not observe this event (Takim, 2011).

Similarities between Sunni and Shi'ite Islam

Despite their differences, Sunni and Shi'ite Islam share key similarities regarding faith systems. Both traditions believe in...