Meet the Shi'ites

Shi'ism began with an argument. When the Prophet Muhammad died in 632, there was a dispute over who would succeed him to become the caliph, or leader, of the young Muslim community.

Shi'ites believe Muhammad had clearly designated Ali, his cousin and son-in-law, as his successor. But a group of Muslim elders gathered and selected Muhammad's father-in-law, Abu Bakr, instead. For a time, Ali stayed out of the public eye, but a small community of Shi'a (Arabic for "followers") soon surrounded him and deferred to him as their imam, or "guide."

Members, read this article now

Get it as an easy-print PDF