Muhammad's death in 632 AD resulted in a significant split in the Muslim community, which led to the formation of two major sects: Sunni and Shia. This division occurred due to disagreements over the issue of succession and who should lead the Muslim community after Muhammad passed away.
The majority of Muslims, who later became known as Sunnis, believed that Abu Bakr, Muhammad's close companion and the father of his wife Aisha, should succeed him as the first caliph. They argued that leadership should pass through consensus and merit, based on the principle of "the best among you is the most righteous" as stated by Muhammad.
On the other hand, a minority faction believed that leadership should remain within the family of Muhammad, and specifically, it should pass to his cousin and son-in-law, Ali. This group, later known as Shias, argued that Muhammad had designated Ali as his successor during his lifetime, and it should be a hereditary position. They claimed the concept of Imamate, which suggests that religious and political authority should be vested in the descendants of Ali, who are considered to be infallible and divinely appointed.
The split between Sunnis and Shias deepened after the assassination of Ali in 661 AD, which resulted in a power struggle between his sons and the ruling Umayyad dynasty. The Umayyads, who were of the Sunni belief, consolidated their power and did not recognize the legitimacy of Ali's family and his descendants. This further crystallized the divide, as Sunnis continued to support the Umayyad caliphate, while Shias rejected their rule and maintained loyalty to the Ahl al-Bayt (family of the Prophet).
This initial division created ongoing tensions and led to different interpretations of Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and political outlook. The Sunni school of thought became the major branch of Islam, comprising the majority of Muslims worldwide, whereas Shias remain a minority but significant group, concentrated particularly in Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, and Lebanon.
Over centuries, the differences between Sunnis and Shias have evolved and encompass various theological, political, and social aspects, resulting in different practices, rituals, and religious leadership structures. These divisions, however, have also been a source of conflict and sectarian tensions throughout history, particularly evident in regions where Sunnis and Shias coexist.
Describe the split in the Muslim community caused by Muhammad’s death.
1 answer