The Kurdish and Shiite people have many similarities, but there are also some key differences between them. Both groups are Muslim, and they share similar dialects and cultures. However, the Kurds are typically more influenced by Turkish culture, while the Shiites are more influenced by Iranian culture. Additionally, the Kurds are Sunni Muslims, while the Shiites are members of the Shiite sect of Islam. Finally, while both groups have fought for independence and autonomy, the Shiites have generally been less successful than the Kurds.
What are Kurds?
Kurds are an ethnic group of people who have inhabited the mountainous region between Iran, Iraq, Armenia, and Turkey for centuries. Kurds speak their own language, which is similar to Farsi, and have their own distinct culture and history. Kurds have often been marginalized by the governments of the countries in which they live, and as a result, they have struggled for autonomy and self-determination. In recent years, Kurds have gained prominence in the international arena due to their fight against the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria and Iraq. Kurds are proud and resilient people, and they are sure to play an important role in the Middle East for years to come.
What are Shiites?
Shiites are members of the Shi’a branch of Islam. The Shi’a represent the largest minority group within Islam, and they can be found in countries all over the world. Shiites believe that Ali, the son-in-law of Muhammad, was the rightful successor to the Prophet.
This belief sets them apart from the majority Sunni branch of Islam, which believes that Abu Bakr, Muhammad’s close friend and advisor, was the rightful Caliph. Shiites also have their own unique religious practices and traditions.
For example, Shiites celebrate Ashura, a holiday that commemorates the martyrdom of Hussain, Ali’s son. In addition, Shiites often visit shrines and tombs of important religious figures, a practice is known as ziyarat. These unique beliefs and practices help to create a strong sense of community among Shiites.
Difference between Kurds and Shiites
Kurds and Shiites are two of the largest Muslim groups in the world. Though they share many beliefs, there are some key differences between them.
- Kurds are mostly Sunni Muslims, while Shiites follow a different branch of Islam.
- Kurds also have their own language and culture, while Shiites are more closely aligned with Arab culture.
- Kurds live mostly in Turkey, Iran, and Iraq, while Shiites are found throughout the Middle East.
- These geographical differences have led to different experiences and perspectives among Kurds and Shiites.
- For example, Kurds have long been oppressed by the governments of Turkey and Iran, while Shiites have generally been more tolerated.
As a result, Kurds have developed a strong sense of identity, while Shiites have often been seen as more assimilated into Arab culture. Though they come from different backgrounds, Kurds and Shiites are both significant groups within the Islamic world.
Conclusion
The Kurds and Shiites are two of the largest Muslim sects in the world. While they share some similarities, there are also key differences between them. We’ve outlined some of the most important distinctions here so that you can be better informed about these groups.
