- Joined
- Jun 12, 2002
- Messages
- 508
I've been watching the news regarding the Middle East recently, particularly that concerning Iraq (Please mods, don't merge this just yet...), and would like to know more about the schism in the Moslem faith that gave rise to the two different flavours - Sunni and Shi'a (and wether there are any more off shoots from the main Islamic faith).
I've done a bit of background reading - the Shi'a 'Ali (Partisans(?) of 'Ali) making an appearance after the death of Mohammed and supporting the succession of 'Ali, Mohammeds chosen successor to the position of Caliate(sp?), whereas the Sunni supported Mohammeds father-in-law(?), but I don't know how relevant this information is to modern Moslems of either flavour.
With so many people apparently taking advantage of the differences, are there any real similarities that could be used to bring the two groups together?
If the Caliate is still a recognised position in Islam, could the current one not extend some influence to reduce the tensions between them?
Any information would be much appreciated .
I've done a bit of background reading - the Shi'a 'Ali (Partisans(?) of 'Ali) making an appearance after the death of Mohammed and supporting the succession of 'Ali, Mohammeds chosen successor to the position of Caliate(sp?), whereas the Sunni supported Mohammeds father-in-law(?), but I don't know how relevant this information is to modern Moslems of either flavour.
With so many people apparently taking advantage of the differences, are there any real similarities that could be used to bring the two groups together?
If the Caliate is still a recognised position in Islam, could the current one not extend some influence to reduce the tensions between them?
Any information would be much appreciated .