FAJAR.CO.ID, JAKARTA – The fundamental differences between Sunnis and Shiites in Islam are rooted in the differences in interpretation of the community’s leaders after the death of the Prophet Muhammad SAW in 632 AD.

Ustadz Adi Hidayat (UAH) discussed in depth the history and teachings that differentiate these two major groups, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical context before issuing new statements.

He pointed out that the Shiites had initially insisted that the head of the community must be from the Prophet’s family, notably Ali bin Abi Talib. This concept is known as Imama, which not only relates to political leadership but also has high spiritual authority.

Concept of Imamate and Caliphate in historical perspective

In the Shiite tradition, imamate means more than just political leadership. Meanwhile, Sunnis emphasize the principle of leadership based on the consensus of the ulama and the Muslim community who appoints the caliph.

Ustadz Adi Hidayat explained that this difference was not only a matter of politics, but also of theological interpretation that developed after the time of Khulafaur Rasyidin.

By examining these differences historically and theologically, the UAH emphasizes that it is not about attacking individuals, but rather about providing a deeper understanding of Sunnis.

Development of sects and traditions

Furthermore, within the Sunni tradition, schools of jurisprudence developed such as Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i and Hanbali, which have different approaches to understanding Islamic law.

Meanwhile, in the Shiite tradition, formations such as Itsna Asyariyah or the Twelve Imams have emerged, which are the majority in Iran.

Relations between Sunnis and Shiites are not always socially hostile, but theological differences are often accompanied by criticism from both sides.