American Military University Muhammad Succession & Conflict Between the Sunni and Shia Paper

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Question Description

One of the major divisions found within the practice of Islam today is a centuries old conflict that exists between the two major Islamic groups identified as the Sunnis and the Shia. Many students are surprised to discover that the precipitating event that led to this conflict was a difference of opinion between the two groups as to the process of religious leadership succession following the death of Muhammad in CE 632.

  • What is your reaction to this conflict and the arguments offered by each side behind it?
  • What practical principles of leadership development can you learn from it, and how would you employ them in the event you were ever selected to lead a religious or non-profit organization?

One of the little-known concepts found within the Islamic belief system is the common practice often referred to as, “Da’wah.”

  • Based upon your studies and research of Islam this week, identify and define the purpose of “Da’wah” and then elaborate upon the process by offering your reaction to it and demonstrate in practical ways how you have witnessed the implementation of it in the world today.

Respond 100 words +


My reaction to the conflict between the Sunnis and Shia is both shocked and a little conflicted over my own opinions of the initial disagreement. I’m shocked because a centuries-old conflict began with a difference of opinion. When I first learned about the beginning conflict, it seemed like an issue that could have been fixed early on in Islamic history. The more I tried to understand the sides of both the Sunnis and Shia, the more each side started to make sense to me. As someone who has lived in the United States my entire life, I’ve always had a perspective like the Sunnis who believe in the consolidated majority of the Islamic community (Nigosian 45). I’ve learned through studying religion that many people feel very strongly towards their religious beliefs; therefore, I also understand Shia points of view. Shia believe that descent by birth in a direct line from Muhammad is crucial, so it makes sense why the original conflict was never resolved considering their belief hasn’t really been successfully implemented (45). If I were selected to lead a non-profit or religious organization, I think I would try to find a way to respect religious beliefs and utilize a democracy in the best way possible. I think that majority consensus and religious beliefs are both important, but I do see how the two can lead to completely different outcomes. If I was in the situation, I would seek advice from someone who was in a similar leadership position and the advice from a leader in the associated religion.

The purpose of Da’wah is to share information about the worship of Allah (God) through the Quran to both Muslims and non-Muslims in a way that is educational rather than persuasive. In Islam, it is believed that Allah decides the fate of each person and it is not the responsibility of Muslims to convert others (Huda). The intent behind Da’wah is to share information on the Islamic faith (Huda). The decision to convert is up to the individual receiving the information. I really like the concept of Da’wah because I am very interested in learning about all religions, but I don’t necessarily know where I stand with my own beliefs. I can be very intimidating to approach people about their faith, so I really respect and appreciate when people are willing to explain their beliefs to me. I’ve never had the opportunity to talk with a Muslim about their faith, but I have had the opportunity to talk to many others about different religions. Every time I have witnessed Da’wah, as I have never felt like the person I was talking to was trying to convert me.

Resources:

Huda. “What Does Da’wah Mean for Muslims?” Learn Religions, Learn Religions, 22 July 2018, www.learnreligions.com/the-meaning-of-dawah-in-islam-2004196.

Nigosian, Solomon A.. Islam : Its History, Teaching, and Practices, Indiana University Press, 2003. ProQuest Ebook Central, https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/apus/detail.action?docID=238836.

Respond 100 words +

In this message post I will give my thoughts and opinions in a very respectful way on the following; the Sunni and Shia Conflict, practical principles of leadership development I can gain from this weeks lesson, and the meaning of Da’wah.

First, I knew that the Sunni and Shia sects have been in major conflict four thousands of years regarding who should be the next prophet/caliphate. I never knew the true reason as to why they had this conflict, but now I truly no why. This has caused a major divide between them. However, the Qu’ran teaches that the Muslim Faith should be “One Family Under God.” Obviously, both sects hold a grudge and for the better I hope there comes a time in history they can resolve this conflict.

Second, If I was the leader of a religious group the one that I would focus on as a principle of leadership development would be the wonderful concept of Zakat. Zakat is the Muslim principle which is to donate a certain portion of wealth each year to charitable causes. I myself am a giver and if I can financially afford to help someone with a legitimate need I will do it. I love helping people as much as I can. I would have no issue in following the Muslim concept of Zakat. This is a very similar concept that most Christians as well. I could not agree more with a beautiful principle that the Muslim faith practices.

Third, Da’wah in Islam means ‘To invite one to learn about the Muslim faith, but not force that upon people.” There are many religions in this world that do not invite people to learn about a specific religion, but “constantly push their religion down a persons throat.” In Da’wah when it comes to my opinion is that the Muslim faith wants to invite a person to educate them about the religion where that person can be more tolerable and not to be ignorant. Importantly, that person must have a desire to understand the Muslim faith.

Finally, I am glad that we covered the Islam and the Muslim faith and the following topics of the Sunni and Shia conflict, practical principles of leadership development I can gain from this weeks lesson, and the meaning of Da’wah. I wish everyone a nice evening and please stay healthy and safe among the COVID-19.

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