Understanding The Sunni and Shia Islam
Introduction:
Choosing between Sunni, Shia, or remaining a plain Muslim is a deeply personal decision that should be guided by understanding of Islam and spiritual journey. Here are some insights to help us make an informed choice.
From Quran:
The verse mentioned in The Quran, "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion" (Quran 5:3), is indeed significant. It emphasizes the completeness and perfection of Islam.
From Hdeeth:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,"Whoever introduces into this affair of ours (i.e., Islam) something that does not belong to it, it is to be rejected." (Sahih al-Bukhari 2697, Sahih Muslim 1718).
Understanding Different Interpretations
Sunni Perspective:
• Completeness of Religion: Sunnis believe that the religion was perfected with the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Any additions or subtractions are seen as innovations (Bid'ah) and are generally discouraged.
• Hadith: The Hadith have mentioned aligns with this view propeht Muhammad (SAW), ''emphasizing that no one from us which should add or subtract from the established teachings of Islam''.
Shia Perspective:
• Role of Imams: Shia Muslims hold that the Imams, starting with Ali (RA), have a special role in interpreting and guiding the community. They believe that these leaders were divinely appointed to continue the Prophet's mission.
• Practices: While some practices are differ, Shia Muslims also follow the core tenets of Islam, including the Five Pillars, but they albeit with many variations in interpretation and practice.
Sunni Islam:
• Majority Group: Sunnis make up about 85-90% of the global Muslim population.
• Leadership: Sunnis believe that the leader of the Muslim community should be elected from among those capable of the job. This belief stems from the early Islamic community's decision to elect Abu Bakr (RA), a close companion of Prophet Muhammad, as the first Caliph.
Shia Islam:
• Minority Group: Shias constitute about 10-15% of Muslims worldwide.
• Leadership: Shias believe that leadership should have stayed within the Prophet Muhammad's family, specifically with his cousin and son-in-law, Ali (RTA).
• Practices: Shia practices also follow the Quran and Hadith but place significant emphasis on the teachings of the Imams, who are considered to be divinely appointed leaders.
Remaining a Plain Muslim:
Remaining a plain Muslim means focusing on the core tenets of Islam without aligning with any specific sect. This approach emphasizes unity and the fundamental beliefs shared by all Muslims:
• Five Pillars of Islam: Faith (Shahada), Prayer (Salah), Almsgiving (Zakat), Fasting (Sawm), and Pilgrimage (Hajj).
• Quran and Hadith: Following the teachings of the Quran and the authentic Hadith.
Making Your Decision:
• Personal Reflection: Reflect on your spiritual needs and which path resonates most with your understanding of Islam.
• Community: Consider the community you feel most comfortable with and where you can grow spiritually.
• Learning: Continue learning about both Sunni and Shia beliefs and practices to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
While there are differences in interpretation and practice between Sunni and Shia Muslims, both groups are part of the broader Muslim Ummah.Ultimately, the right path is the one that brings us closer to The Allah and helps us live a life of faith, compassion, and righteousness.
May Allah SWT guide us on the journey of Eemaan. (Ameen)
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