Muslim World - Major Denominations

Major Denominations

The two main denominations of Islam are the Sunni and Shia sects. They differ primarily upon of how the life of the ummah ("faithful") should be governed, and the role of the imam. These two main differences stem from the understanding of which hadith are to interpret the Quran. Sunnis believe the true political successor of the Prophet in Sunnah is Abu Bakr, father of the Prophet's favoured wife, 'A'ishah (elected by people of Medina) while the religious succession ceased to exist on account of finality of Prophethood. Shia on the other hand believe that the true political as well as religious successor is 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, husband of the Prophet's daughter Fatimah (designated by the Prophet).

The overwhelming majority of Muslims in the world, between 87%–90%, are Sunni.

Shias and other (Ibadiyyas-Ismailis) make up the rest, about 10%–13% of overall Muslim population. The top 10 countries with the most Shia populations are: Iran - 93%, Azerbaijan - 61%, Iraq - 55%, Lebanon - 40%, Yemen - 36%, Pakistan - 25%, Syria - 17%, Turkey - 15%, Afghanistan - 15%, and India - 2.7%.

The Kharijite Muslims, who are less known, have their own stronghold in the country of Oman holding about 75% of the population. The rest of the population being 15% Shia and the rest Sunni.