Shia Islam is one of the two main branches of Islam. The term “Shia” means “followers” and refers to those who believe that Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), was the rightful successor to the Prophet.

Shia Muslims believe that leadership of the Muslim community should have remained within the family of the Prophet, known as the Ahl al-Bayt. This belief is based on the concept of Imamate, where divinely appointed leaders guide the community.

Key differences between Shia and Sunni Islam primarily concern leadership succession and certain theological interpretations, though both branches share the same fundamental beliefs in Allah, the Quran, and the Prophet Muhammad.