The three principal Shia branches are Twelverism, Isma'ilism, and Zaydism. Shia Muslims form a majority in Iran, Iraq, and Azerbaijan, and comprise nearly half of the citizen population of Bahrain. [3] Substantial Shia communities also exist in Lebanon, Kuwait, Turkey, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, and the Indian subcontinent.
Here's a historical overview detailing how divisions of political and spiritual leadership separated Shia and Sunni Muslims.
Shia Islam is a deeply spiritual and historically rich branch of Islam. From its origins in the leadership debate to the powerful story of Karbala, from theological depth to philosophical contributions, it has shaped the Muslim world in profound ways.
This three-part series explores the famous report of Hadith al-Tayr, a narration recorded by both Sunni and Shia traditions, yet whose profound implications have led to its systematic neglect by the majority of Muslims.
Based on Quranic verses, authentic hadith, and rational inquiry, the Shia school maintains that the Prophet explicitly appointed a successor to guide the Muslim community in religious, legal, and political matters, rather than leaving leadership to communal selection.
Shia Islam is one of the two major sects within Islam. Along with monotheism, prophethood, and resurrection, Imamate is a principle held by Shi'a Islam, distinguishing it from Sunni Islam.
The Middle East’s conflicts are not simply ancient religious feuds. They are modern political struggles shaped by history, identity and political interests. Here’s what you need to know about Sunni and Shia Islam — and how it impacts Iran and the current situation there.
Shia Islam, the second-largest branch of Islam, emerged from a political and theological dispute over the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad. Its history is deeply intertwined with early Islamic leadership struggles and the reverence for Ali ibn Abi Talib and his descendants.