Shia Islam
Shia Islam is one of the major branches of Islam, constituting about 10-15% of the global Muslim population. This sect differentiates itself from Sunni Islam primarily through its beliefs regarding the succession to the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
Origins and History
The origins of Shia Islam can be traced back to the early days following the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE. Shia Muslims believe that Muhammad designated his cousin and son-in-law, Ali ibn Abi Talib, as his successor. This belief stands in contrast to the Sunni tradition, which holds that Muhammad did not appoint a specific successor, leading to the selection of the Rashidun Caliphs by consensus.
The First Fitna, or Islamic civil war, was a significant turning point that solidified the division between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Ali's eventual assassination and the tragedy of Husayn ibn Ali at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE further entrenched the schism.
Beliefs and Practices
The Twelve Imams
A core tenet of Shia Islam, particularly Twelver Shia, is the belief in a line of twelve divinely appointed leaders, known as the Twelve Imams. These Imams are considered the spiritual and temporal successors to Muhammad. The Twelver Shia community believes that the Twelfth Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, is in occultation and will reappear as the Mahdi to bring justice to the world.
Theology and Jurisprudence
Theology in Shia Islam is often referred to as the "roots of religion" and includes beliefs in Tawhid (the oneness of God), Adalah (divine justice), Nubuwwah (prophethood), Imamah (leadership), and Ma'ad (the Day of Judgment). Shia jurisprudence, or fiqh, is based on the teachings of the Imams and the Quran. The Ja'fari school is the predominant school of jurisprudence in Shia Islam, named after the sixth Imam, Ja'far al-Sadiq.
Rituals and Observances
Shia Muslims observe many of the same rituals as Sunni Muslims, such as the five daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and the pilgrimage to Mecca. However, they also have unique practices, including the commemoration of Ashura, which marks the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali at Karbala. This day is observed with mourning, reenactments, and public displays of grief.
Shia Islam Around the World
Iran
Iran is predominantly Twelver Shia, a conversion largely credited to the Safavid dynasty in the 16th century. The Safavids established Twelver Shia Islam as the state religion, which has continued to influence the country's politics and culture.
Iraq
Iraq is home to significant Shia holy cities, including Najaf and Karbala, making it a central hub for Shia scholarship and pilgrimage. The Al-Abbas Mosque in Karbala and the Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf are among the holiest sites in Shia Islam.
Lebanon
In Lebanon, Shia Muslims form a substantial part of the population, represented politically by groups like Hezbollah. The Amal Movement is another significant Shia political party in the country.
Other Regions
Shia communities exist in significant numbers in countries like India, Pakistan, Bahrain, Yemen, and Azerbaijan. These communities often face varying degrees of political and social challenges, depending on the dominant religious sect in their respective countries.
Shia-Sunni Relations
The relationship between Shia and Sunni Muslims has been complex and often contentious. The initial schism was both theological and political, and subsequent historical events have occasionally exacerbated tensions. However, there are also many instances of coexistence and shared cultural practices, especially in regions where both communities live together.