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How was Shiite formed?
Shia Islam originated as a response to questions of Islamic religious leadership which became manifest as early as the death of Muhammad in 632 CE. To the Shiite, however, the question of succession is a matter of designation of an individual (Ali) through divine command.
When did Shiite Islam begin?
The roots of the Sunni-Shia divide can be traced all the way back to the seventh century, soon after the death of the prophet Muhammad in A.D. 632.
Where are Shiites the majority?
Large numbers of Shia Arab Muslims live in some Arab countries including Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, and Qatar. Shia Muslims are a numerical majority in Iraq and Bahrain.
Who founded Shiite Islam?
Shias adhere to the teachings of Muhammad and the religious guidance of his family (who are referred to as the Ahl al-Bayt) or his descendants known as Shia Imams. Muhammad’s bloodline continues only through his daughter Fatima Zahra and cousin Ali who alongside Muhammad’s grandsons comprise the Ahl al-Bayt.
Is Afghanistan Sunni or Shiite?
The Afghan government is established as a Sunni Islamic Republic. Therefore, there is a strong societal pressure to adhere to Sunni Islamic traditions. The moral code of the Islamic doctrine tends to govern the political, economic and legal aspects of an Afghan’s life. Not all Afghans are strictly observant Muslims.
How many Shiites are there in Iraq?
About 150 million Shiites are spread around the world, most of them in Iran, Iraq, India and Pakistan. While the Sunni branch makes up the greater part of the global Muslim population of more than a billion, Shiites form the majority in Iraq—as many as 15 million out of a population of 24 million.
What is the history of Shia Islam in Iraq?
Shia Islam has a long history in Iraq; the fourth caliph of Sunni Islam and the first Imam of Shia Islam, Ali ibn Abi Talib, moved the capital of the empire from Medina to Kufa (or Najaf) two decades after the death of Muhammad. Iraq is the location of the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, pilgrimage sites for millions of Shia Muslims.
Is Iraq a Shia or Sunni country?
Iraq was also the place of many the fitnas (schisms) that occurred in the beginning. The Muslim population of Iraq is 40-45\% Sunni and 55-60\% Shia. Iraqi Kurds are 98\% Sunni, with 2\% being Shia Feyli Kurds.
What are the two main sects of Islam in Iraq?
Smaller sects of Islam exist in the country. The Muslim population of Iraq is 67.6\% Shia and 32.4\% Sunni. Iraqi Kurds are 85\% Sunni, with 15\% being Shia Feyli Kurds. Most Kurds are located in the northern areas of the country, with most following the Sunni Shafi school of Islamic law but with some being members…