Leading Principles of Interfaith Harmony

Abstract

Abstract: There are two major sects in Islamic society. The Sunni and Shi’a sects. The difference between Sunnis and Shi’a is more of a political nature than creed. Both, Sunnis and Shi’as, believe in the one God, in the angels, scriptures, prophets and messengers, the hereafter, and the divine decree and destiny. They share the same scripture, called the holy Qur’an. Although there may be a difference in the way Sunnis and Shi’as worship, nevertheless, both pray five times a day, fast the month of Ramadan, pay the zakah (the obligatory charity) and go to Mecca for pilgrimage. During daily prayers, both Sunnis and Shi’as direct their faces toward Baitullah.
The core objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive understanding of sectarianism. This study can enhance the knowledge of the theoretical understanding of sectarianism. It can also provide deep insight into the sectarian extremism through investigating the factors, which contributed for its growth and perpetual rise. This article aims to minimize the contradictions so that the Muslims may flourish unity and integrity by negating disputes.