Similar to other monotheistic religions, such as Christianity, Islam is divided into two major sects, each distinguished by slight differences in beliefs and traditions. These two groups are Shia and Sunni. The division between Shia and Sunni Muslims dates back to the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE. After his death, the question of who should take the leadership of the Muslim people arose. Many Muslims agreed with the Prophet's companions, saying that the new ruler should be elected from among those capable of fulfilling the role. Eventually, it was decided that Abu Bakr, a close friend and advisor to the Prophet Muhammad, would become the first caliph of the Islamic people. All those who agreed with this decision were now known as Sunni Muslims, "Sunni" being an abbreviation of the Arabic word meaning "one who follows the traditions of the Prophet." Those who refused to follow Abu Bakr instead followed Muhammad's son-in-law, Ali, believing that leadership should remain either within the Prophet's own family, among those specifically appointed by him, or among the Imams (sacred Islamic leaders). appointed by God himself. . These Muslims called themselves Shia Muslims, "Shia" being an abbreviation of Shiat Ali, meaning "followers of Ali." Shiites and Sunnis argued with evidence that supported their beliefs in favor of succession to the leadership of the Muslim government. people. Sunnis claimed that the Prophet chose Abu Bakr to lead the congregation's prayers as he lay on his deathbed, thus suggesting that the Prophet was appointing him as the next ruler. The Shiites, on the other hand, said that Muhammad stood up before his companions upon returning from his final Hajj and proclaimed that Ali was the spirit...... middle of paper...... hrain and Iraq (which represents 60% of the population). There are also significant communities of Shia Muslims along the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. However, Sunni Muslims constitute the majority (85%) of Muslims worldwide. Since many Shia-occupied areas in these countries held large oil reserves, Sunni Muslims became bitter towards the Shias, and due to their differences in beliefs, the divide widened, causing conflict between the two. sects. Overall, it is essential to recognize that, despite differences in opinions and practices, Shia and Sunni Muslims maintain their belief in the major core beliefs of the Islamic religion and are considered by most to be brothers in the faith. In fact, most Muslims do not distinguish themselves by claiming membership in a particular group, but prefer to call themselves simply "Muslims". ».."