Sunni and Wahabi are two branches of Islam. Though they share common roots, the two sects have several key differences in their beliefs and practices. Understanding these differences is important for anyone looking to learn more about Islam. This blog post will explore some of the key distinctions between Sunni and Wahabi Muslims.
What is Sunni?
Sunni Islam is one of the two largest branches of Islam, with the other being Shia Islam. Sunni Muslims make up the majority of Muslims worldwide, and they are particularly prevalent in the Middle East and North Africa. Sunni Islam is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions, who are known as the Sunni caliphate. The Sunni caliphate was succeeded by the Umayyad dynasty, which ruled from 666 to 750 CE. After the Umayyad dynasty fell, the Sunni Abbasid dynasty ruled from 750 to 1258 CE.
Sunni Islam has four main schools of thought: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali. The largest Sunni Muslim group is the Hanafi school, which is predominant in Turkey, Central Asia, and South Asia. Sunni Muslims typically pray five times a day and fast during the month of Ramadan. They also perform the hajj pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
What is Wahabi?
Wahabism is an Islamic movement founded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab. It started in the 18th century in Najd, Arabia. The Wahhabi movement spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and even to some parts of Asia and Africa. The Wahhabis follow a very literalist interpretation of Islam. They adhere to a strict interpretation of the Sunni branch of Islam. The Wahhabis are known for their conservative views on social issues, such as gender relations and music. They also believe that all other Islamic sects are heretical. The Wahhabi movement has been criticized by other Muslims for its intolerant and rigid views. However, Wahabism continues to be influential among some Muslims today.
Difference between Sunni and Wahabi
Sunni and Wahabi are two of the largest branches of Islam. Sunni Muslims make up the majority of Muslims worldwide, while Wahabis are a minority group. While both groups share many beliefs, there are also some significant differences between them. Sunni Muslims follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions, while Wahabis adhere to a more literal interpretation of the Quran.
Sunni Muslims also believe in the sanctity of all Islamic holy sites, while Wahabis consider only Saudi Arabia’s Mecca and Medina to be truly sacred. As a result of these differences, Sunni and Wahabi Muslims often view each other with suspicion and mistrust. However, both groups remain united in their belief in Allah and their commitment to Islamic law.
Conclusion
The Sunni and Wahabi sects of Islam are two of the most popular branches, but what sets them apart? The Sunni branch is more traditional, while the Wahabi sect takes a stricter interpretation of the Quran. Most Muslims fall into the Sunni category, while Wahabis are a minority. There are some key differences between these two groups, chief among them being their approach to religious law and worship.
