Sunni-Shia split

The Sunni-Shia split originated over a disagreement about who should lead the Muslim community after Prophet Muhammad's death in 632 AD. Sunnis believe the leader, called the caliph, should be chosen by consensus from capable Muslims, leading to wider acceptance. Shias, however, believe leadership should stay within Prophet Muhammad’s family, specifically through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali. This difference in beliefs about authority led to political, religious, and cultural distinctions, shaping two major branches of Islam that exist alongside each other today. Despite these differences, both groups share core Islamic beliefs and practices.