What’s the Difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims?

The main difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims centers on a historical disagreement over who should have led the Muslim community after the prophet Muhammad died in 632 AD. Sunni Muslims believe the leader should be elected from among the most capable members of the community, while Shia Muslims believe leadership belongs exclusively to the direct descendants of Muhammad’s family. Today, this distinction shapes everything from their religious practices and leadership structures to the modern political landscape of the Middle East.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected] Now--