WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The succession to Muhammad is the central issue that split the Muslim community into several divisions in the first century of Islamic history, with the most prominent among these sects being the Shia and Sunni branches of Islam.

Detailed explanation-2: -After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, a debate ensued over who should take his place as leader of the faith. Most of the prominent Muslims of Medina claimed that Muhammad had named no successor and elected Abu Bakr, the Prophet’s closest advisor and companion, as the first caliph (successor).

Detailed explanation-3: -What were the main reasons for the split between the Sunni and the Shi’a? The future of Islam was placed in crisis after the death of Muhammad. Sunni’s claimed that following Muhammad’s example was sufficient to be caliph, while Shia’s believed that the successor to Muhammad should be part of his bloodline.

Detailed explanation-4: -The Muslim community selected Abu-Bakr as Muhammad’s successor, Abu-Bakr was respected for his devotion to Muhammad and to Islam. In 632, Abu-Bakr became the first caliph, or “successor.” Soon some clans on the Arabian Peninsula abandoned Islam.