The division between Shia and Sunni dates back to the death of the Prophet Muhammad, and the 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 friend and advisor, Abu Bakr, became the first Caliph of the 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 is shortened 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 House
same as Sunni Muslims except minor differences that do not count. Refer to question below.
Some key differences between Shiite and Sunni Muslims include their beliefs on the rightful leaders of Islam (Imam Ali for Shiites and the Caliphs for Sunnis), their practices and rituals, and their interpretations of Islamic law. Additionally, there are theological differences in their views on the role of clergy and the concept of religious authority.
No They are not Sunnis. They are Shiites.
Theological differences. The Shiites believe Muhammed's son-in-law and cousin Ali was the successor to the Caliphate, whereas the Sunni denomination tends to be considerably more orthodox.
most of the mosques in shiites and sunni are like and same.some differences between them refer to architect subject.for example it is seen that some shiite mosques have two tower(manarah) but sunni mosques has one manarah.but this is not difference because in most cases sunnis also had two manarah mosques and shiite also had one manarah mosques.therfore it can be said that mosques both of shiite and sunni are the same in terms of architect and something like this.
The Sunni (or ahlus sunna wal jam'ah).
the Sunnis are the majority and the shiites are the minority.therefore the numbers of Sunnis are more than shiites populations.
Iraq is majority Shiite, but has a significant Sunni minority.
Kurds, Sunni, and Shiites.
Both Shiites and Sunnis are Muslims. They both believe in Allah and prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but have some political differences about political leadership of prophet after his death. such differences not affect the religious laws of Islam like marriage. Refer to related question below.Answer:There are TONS of very important differences between the Shiah and Sunni.
Both The majority of the Nigerians are the Sunni Muslims, yet a small minority is Shiites.
He was Sunni(or ahlus sunna wal jama'ah).Shiites curse and swear him.