Describe the split in the Muslim community caused by Muhammad’s death.

Question

(Semi-Short)

Answer 1

The split in the Muslim community caused by Muhammad's death led to the division between the Sunni and Shia sects. The Sunni Muslims believed that the most qualified individual should succeed Muhammad as the leader of the Muslim community, while the Shia Muslims believed that leadership should remain within the Prophet's family, specifically through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali. This difference in belief led to a significant divide within the Muslim community that persists to this day.