Sunni and Shiah Perspective on Islam

Sunni and Shiah Perspective on Islam by Dr. Ahmad 'Abdullah Salamah aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the two main branches of Islam. The book explores the theological, historical and cultural differences and similarities between them.

What Is Covered

• Historical origins — how the division arose and what was actually disputed at the time
• Theological differences — particularly on the imamate, the Companions, and the sources of authority
• Jurisprudential differences — where practice diverges and why
• The points on which the two agree, which are more numerous than the disagreements

Why an Informed Account Is Better Than an Argument

Most Muslims hold a position on this without being able to state the other side's case accurately, and a good deal of what circulates about each group is caricature produced by the other.

A reader who understands what is actually being claimed — and on what grounds — is better placed than one who has only been told a conclusion. That is true whether he ends up more convinced or less.

A Word on Position

The book is written from the Sunni perspective and argues for it. That is stated openly rather than disguised as neutrality, which is the honest way to write on a subject like this.

Who It Is For

Muslims who want to understand the division rather than inherit an opinion about it. Also useful for anyone living in a mixed community, or with family across it.

Related Reading

• A Summary of the Creed of As-Salaf As-Salih — the creed of the Salaf, summarized
• The Ha'iyya of Ibn Abi Dawud — the beliefs of the Salaf in verse
• Noble Life of The Prophet (3 Vol. Set) — the Noble Life of the Prophet ﷺ