
Antonina C. answered 03/22/24
Geography Tutor - 3+ Years
The division between Sunni and Shia Muslims originated from a disagreement over the rightful successor to Prophet Muhammad following his death in 632 CE. Sunni Muslims believe that leadership should be determined through consensus among the community, leading to the appointment of Abu Bakr as the first caliph. In contrast, Shia Muslims believe that leadership should have been hereditary within the Prophet's family, leading to the support of Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, as the rightful successor.
This division has had significant implications for the modern world, particularly in regions with large Muslim populations like the Middle East. The sectarian rivalry between Sunni and Shia Muslims has often fueled conflicts and tensions, with political and religious differences exacerbating social divisions. This has been particularly evident in countries like Iraq, where sectarian violence between Sunni and Shia communities has been a major factor in destabilizing the country.
Furthermore, external powers have often exploited Sunni-Shia tensions for their own geopolitical interests, exacerbating conflicts and perpetuating instability in the region. The rivalry between Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia and Shia-majority Iran, for example, has played out in proxy wars and political maneuvering across the Middle East, further complicating efforts for peace and stability.
In addition to regional conflicts, the Sunni-Shia divide has also influenced global politics and security dynamics. Extremist groups like ISIS have exploited sectarian grievances to recruit fighters and justify their violent actions, further perpetuating cycles of violence and instability.
Overall, the Sunni-Shia divide continues to shape the modern world in profound ways, impacting geopolitics, security, and social dynamics in regions with significant Muslim populations. Efforts to address and mitigate sectarian tensions are essential for promoting peace, stability, and coexistence in these regions.