Schism in Islam

Question 1

Schism

Answer 1

A division or split within the community of faith

Question 2

What argument arose over who should succeed Muhammad as leader of Islam?

Answer 2

One group felt it should be a member of Muhammad’s tribe and should be elected, not just given the role. Others wanted the leader to come from Muhammad’s own family. They believed Ali, Muhammad’s cousin and son in law, should be the next leader

Question 3

Who was the 1st leader after Muhammad and what title was he given?

Answer 3

The first leader after Muhammad was Abu Bakr and was given the title caliph. He was not a direct descendant of Muhammad

Question 4

What two groups were formed as a result of the dispute over Muhammad’s successor?

Answer 4

Sunni and Shi’a Muslims

Question 5

Sunni Muslims

Answer 5

○Largest group (90%)
○Believe true leadership comes from the Qur’an
○Have imams who are holy men who lead prayers and give sermons in a mosque

Question 6

Shi’a Muslims

Answer 6

○10%
○Their leaders are called Ayatollahs
○Follow the teachings of the Qur’an, the Hadith of Muhammad and the Hadith of Ali
○They believe the leader should be a direct descendant of Muhammad
○Pay special attention to Ali and his sons, celebrate the anniversaries of their deaths, and make pilgrimages to places associated with their lives