Sunni vs. Shia — What's the Difference?

Sunni Islam is the largest branch of Islam, representing the majority of Muslims globally. Shia Islam, on the other hand, is the second-largest branch and is more concentrated in countries like Iran and Iraq. Both Sunni and Shia share core Islamic beliefs but differ in their interpretations of leadership and religious practice.

Sunni Muslims place their faith in the community to select the best leaders, starting with the companions of the Prophet Muhammad. Shia Muslims contend that only the direct descendants of Muhammad, known as Imams, are the rightful leaders. Both Sunni and Shia venerate the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad, but their diverging beliefs on leadership create distinct religious practices and rituals.

The Sunni-Shia split originated shortly after the death of the Prophet Muhammad over a leadership dispute. Sunni Muslims recognize the first four caliphs as his rightful successors. Shia Muslims only recognize Ali, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, and his direct descendants as legitimate leaders. The historical divide has led to distinct schools of jurisprudence, religious practices, and even, occasionally, political alliances.

Sunni Muslims follow four main schools of jurisprudence, whereas Shia Muslims mainly follow the Jafari school of thought. Both Sunni and Shia perform the five pillars of Islam, including prayer and fasting, but some rituals and prayers are carried out differently. Though both branches are part of Islam, their differences in leadership, jurisprudence, and rituals have significant implications for religious and, at times, geopolitical relations.