Shia
By: Maggie, Tyler, and Aaron
History of Shia Islam
- Shia Islam is the second largest branch of islam after Sunni Islam.
- Shia Islam is like Sunni Islam, it has been divided into many branches, however only three have currently have a significant number of followers.
- This group began accepting Muhammad as their prophet.
- One very significant figure is Ashura.
- He was murdered in Karbala (Iraq) in 680. Shia commemorate this event each year on Ashura.
- It is a day of mourning recognized throughout the Shia world.
5 W's
- Who: Shiism began with the death of Muhammad when the two religions separated. There leader was Muhammad's son in law Ali which is their Imam or leader.
- Why: This religion started when the two religions seperated.
- When: After Muhammad died in 632 CE.
- What: About 1.6 billion.
- Where: It is practiced in these main regions Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Bahrain.
Map of places it is practiced
Rituals and Practices
- Shia Muslims engage in gory mourning rituals such as self-flagellation and self-mutilation in celebration of Ashura, one of the holiest days in Shia Islam.
- Another Ritual is called "tatbeer," participants cut their heads with swords and spears in mourning for the fallen Imam Hussein.
- Another Shia self-flagellation ritual involves the use of a zanjeer (a chain with blades.)
Day of Muharram
In 2014 this ritual starts on Friday, October 24th and ends on Sunday, November 23rd. It is also known as Asura. "Ashura" is a highly important day for both sects of Islam the Shias and the Sunnis.
5 principles of the religion
- Tawhid (oneness) to unify something as one
- Adalah (justice) commands them to do good things before evil
- Nubian (prophethood) sends out messengers to teach mankind gods message
- Imamah (leadership) specific leaders to lead and guide mankind
- Yawm al Qiyyamah (the day of resurrection) God will raise mankind for judgement. In other words it would be like when Jesus rose from the dead.
Shi'a Muslims have gathered for an Ashura
Ashura is a ten-day event that commemorates the death of the Prophet Mohammad's grandson. He was killed in a seventh-century battle. To commemorate his death it is Shi'a tradition for self-flagellation.
Man taking a part in a ritual
Shia people have massive parades known as "Matam" in which they flog themselves with China's, blades and knives.
Even shia people take part in the ritual
Young children are also forced to take part in the ritual of self-flagellation
Day of Ashura
Taking part of their rituals
Flagellation
A Shia flagallets himself to honor his leader
The celebration day
People join in a group to celebrate this is what it looks like
24 hour walk
Shias walk though a fire during the Ashura feetival
Symbol
One of the symbols for Shia Islam
Shia Islam in Iraq
This is one place wher Shia Islam is practiced. This is what they might look like when they are getting ready for a ceramony or celebration