One of the two major branches of Islam, followed by Muslims who believe Ali ibn Abi Talib was the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad.
From Arabic Shiat Ali, meaning 'followers of Ali.' The word comes from 'shiat' (followers or faction) referring specifically to those who followed Ali as the first Imam.
The Sunni-Shia split in Islam happened in the very first generation after Prophet Muhammad's death (7th century) over a question of leadership succession, making it one of the oldest religious schisms in human history—yet most followers of both branches recognize far more similarities than differences.
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