Ever wondered what causes the major divide in Islam? It... Show more
Religious Studies
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
6
0
Megan Parker
02/12/2025
Religious Studies
Islamic Beliefs and Teachings
346
•
2 Dec 2025
•
Understanding Islamic Beliefs and Teachings
Megan Parker
@meganparker_tipg
1 / 4
The Great Split: Sunni vs Shi'a Islam
The biggest division in Islam happened right after Prophet Muhammad died - and it was all about leadership. Sunni Muslims believed Abu Bakr (Muhammad's close friend) should lead, whilst Shi'a Muslims thought Ali (Muhammad's cousin) was the rightful choice.
This disagreement created lasting differences in how each group organises itself. Sunnis elect their leaders called caliphs, but Shi'as believe their leaders (imams) must be descendants of Muhammad. Think of it like choosing between voting for a president versus having a royal family!
Both groups follow the Qur'an and Sunnah (Muhammad's teachings), but Shi'as also look to their imams for guidance. Sunnis stick with just the Qur'an and Sunnah for religious direction.
The core beliefs are surprisingly similar though. Tawhid (believing in one God) tops both lists - Sunnis have their six articles of faith whilst Shi'as follow the five roots of 'Usul ad-Din.
Quick Fact: About 85-90% of Muslims worldwide are Sunni, with Shi'as making up most of the remainder.
Understanding Allah: The Nature of God
Muslims believe Allah is absolutely unique - there's literally no one like him. The Qur'an describes this perfectly: "He is God the one" (only one God exists), "God the eternal" (always existed), and "no one is comparable to him" (completely unique, which is why Islam forbids pictures or statues of God).
The Qur'an lists 99 names of Allah that reveal his nature. He's immanent (present everywhere), beneficent (generous and kind), adalat (perfectly fair), merciful (forgiving), and omnipotent . These aren't just fancy titles - they show Muslims exactly what God is like.
Angels play crucial roles as God's messengers. Created from pure light, they're sinless beings with no free will who simply serve God. Jibril revealed the Qur'an to Muhammad, whilst Mika'il controls weather and rewards good deeds.
Understanding God's nature helps Muslims know what to expect from him - perfect justice, unlimited mercy, and absolute power over everything.
Remember: These 99 names aren't just memorisation - they're meant to help Muslims understand God's character and build their relationship with him.
Predestination and Life After Death
Here's where Sunni and Shi'a beliefs get interesting - they disagree about predestination! Sunnis believe God has written everything in a 'book of decrees' and his will controls what happens. Humans have some choice in behaviour, but can't change their destiny. That's why they say "Inshallah" (God willing) so often.
Shi'as see it differently. They believe God knows everything (past, present, future) because he exists outside time, but humans still have genuine free will. God knows what choices you'll make, but you're still making them freely.
Both groups agree on the Day of Judgement though. After death comes barzakh (a waiting period) where angels question people about their faith. Everyone receives their 'book of deeds' containing everything they've done.
Then comes the final destination: jannah (paradise) - a beautiful garden of eternal happiness with God, or jahannam (hell) - separation from God in fire and torment. These beliefs massively influence how Muslims live, encouraging them to take responsibility for their actions and persevere through difficulties.
Key Point: Whether Sunni or Shi'a, Muslims believe their choices in this life directly affect their eternal future.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Islam
Most popular content in Religious Studies
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Islamic Beliefs and Teachings
Megan Parker
@meganparker_tipg
Ever wondered what causes the major divide in Islam? It all started with a disagreement over who should lead Muslims after Prophet Muhammad's death, creating two main branches that still exist today. Understanding these differences helps explain the diverse beliefs... Show more
The Great Split: Sunni vs Shi'a Islam
The biggest division in Islam happened right after Prophet Muhammad died - and it was all about leadership. Sunni Muslims believed Abu Bakr (Muhammad's close friend) should lead, whilst Shi'a Muslims thought Ali (Muhammad's cousin) was the rightful choice.
This disagreement created lasting differences in how each group organises itself. Sunnis elect their leaders called caliphs, but Shi'as believe their leaders (imams) must be descendants of Muhammad. Think of it like choosing between voting for a president versus having a royal family!
Both groups follow the Qur'an and Sunnah (Muhammad's teachings), but Shi'as also look to their imams for guidance. Sunnis stick with just the Qur'an and Sunnah for religious direction.
The core beliefs are surprisingly similar though. Tawhid (believing in one God) tops both lists - Sunnis have their six articles of faith whilst Shi'as follow the five roots of 'Usul ad-Din.
Quick Fact: About 85-90% of Muslims worldwide are Sunni, with Shi'as making up most of the remainder.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Understanding Allah: The Nature of God
Muslims believe Allah is absolutely unique - there's literally no one like him. The Qur'an describes this perfectly: "He is God the one" (only one God exists), "God the eternal" (always existed), and "no one is comparable to him" (completely unique, which is why Islam forbids pictures or statues of God).
The Qur'an lists 99 names of Allah that reveal his nature. He's immanent (present everywhere), beneficent (generous and kind), adalat (perfectly fair), merciful (forgiving), and omnipotent . These aren't just fancy titles - they show Muslims exactly what God is like.
Angels play crucial roles as God's messengers. Created from pure light, they're sinless beings with no free will who simply serve God. Jibril revealed the Qur'an to Muhammad, whilst Mika'il controls weather and rewards good deeds.
Understanding God's nature helps Muslims know what to expect from him - perfect justice, unlimited mercy, and absolute power over everything.
Remember: These 99 names aren't just memorisation - they're meant to help Muslims understand God's character and build their relationship with him.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Predestination and Life After Death
Here's where Sunni and Shi'a beliefs get interesting - they disagree about predestination! Sunnis believe God has written everything in a 'book of decrees' and his will controls what happens. Humans have some choice in behaviour, but can't change their destiny. That's why they say "Inshallah" (God willing) so often.
Shi'as see it differently. They believe God knows everything (past, present, future) because he exists outside time, but humans still have genuine free will. God knows what choices you'll make, but you're still making them freely.
Both groups agree on the Day of Judgement though. After death comes barzakh (a waiting period) where angels question people about their faith. Everyone receives their 'book of deeds' containing everything they've done.
Then comes the final destination: jannah (paradise) - a beautiful garden of eternal happiness with God, or jahannam (hell) - separation from God in fire and torment. These beliefs massively influence how Muslims live, encouraging them to take responsibility for their actions and persevere through difficulties.
Key Point: Whether Sunni or Shi'a, Muslims believe their choices in this life directly affect their eternal future.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
6
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Most popular content: Islam
Most popular content in Religious Studies
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user