Question

What issue led to the split between the Sunni and Shia in Islam?

The Shia believe only Arabs could be Muslims.


Arguments began over what should be included in the Five Pillars


The Shia wanted to change the direction of prayer to Jerusalem rather than Mecca.


They disagreed over who should lead the Muslim community after the death of Muhammad.

Answer 1

When Muhammed died in the year 632, he, much like Alexander the Great, did not appoint a successor. So, there was much argument who would lead then a young growing religion. The Sunni Muslims believed that the new caliph should be Abu Bakr while the Shia believed that Muhammed’s cousin Ali should be the leader.