Sunnis are the largest denomination in Islam, comprising about eighty-five percent of all Muslims. Their difference with the minority Shia (or Shiite) Muslims arose soon after Muhammad's death, when a conflict arose over who his successor should be. The Sunnis believe that the first four caliphs—Muhammad's companions—rightfully took his place as the leaders of Muslims, whereas the Shia follow a bloodline. They recognize the teachings and Hadiths of the four caliphs as legitimate religious leaders.
External links
- Sunnite, at the Encyclopædia Britannica
- Shia and Sunni Islam - what are the differences?, at GotQuestions
- Hayward, John (May 25, 2017). Shia vs. Sunni: The Schism Western Politicians Don’t Understand and Won’t Discuss. Breitbart News.