Sunni
– Followers are called Sunnis (Sunna means “behavior or practice”)
– ~85% of all Muslims
– Followers of Mohammed’s father-in-law, Abu Bakr
Apologetics Index
Shi’a (Shiism)
– Followers are called Shi’ites (Shi’ite means partisan)
– ~10% of all Muslims
– Followers of Ali, Mohammed’s cousin and son-in-law
– Primarily in Iraq and Iran
– Claim they are the only true followers of Islam
Apologetics Index
Sufis
– The mystic sect of Islam
– Opposes a rigid interpretation of Qur’an
– Emphasizes a simple ascetic life with devotional practices and experiences
The Mystics of Islam
RIM
Wahhabism
– Founded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahab (1703-1791)
– Considers itself to be a puritanical reform movement
– Condemns modernization (TV, telephone, radio, and public education for women)
– Followers include Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban
Apologetics Index
Bartleby
Nation of Islam
– Founded by Elijah Muhammad in 1930
– Currently lead by Louis Farrakhan
– Believes in black supremacy
Apologetics Index
Cornerstone Mag
Other minor sects:
Kharijis, Druze, Alawi, Ismali, Ahmadiyyah
Definitions:
Islam – to surrender
Muslim – those who submit
Links:
Google
Facts on Islam
Answering-Islam
Glossary of Islamic Terms and Concepts
A Comparison of Shi’ite and Sunni Belief and Practice
Islam’s influence in the world
A Guide To Islamic Sects
Adherents by country
Islam Primer