Ever wondered what causes the major divide in Islam? It... Show more
Religious Studies406 views·Updated May 16, 2026·4 pagesUnderstanding Islamic Beliefs and Teachings
Megan Parker@meganparker_tipg
1 / 4
1
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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.
2
of 4
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.
3
of 4
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.
4
of 4
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Religious Studies406 views·Updated May 16, 2026·4 pagesUnderstanding 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
1
of 4Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
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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.
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of 4Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
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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).
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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.
3
of 4Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
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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.
4
of 4Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
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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.
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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.
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