Shi'a

  1. Home
  2. top of the aat hierarchies
  3. Associated Concepts Facet
  4. Associated Concepts (hierarchy name)
  5. [religions and religious concepts]
  6. religions (belief systems, cultures)
  7. Abrahamic religions
  8. Islam
  9. Shi'a
Scope note
A sect of Islam that emerged in early Islamic history as a political faction that supported the rule of Ali, son-in-law of Muhammad and fourth caliph of the Muslim community. It This branch of Islam advocates the idea of rule in the Muslim world based on lineage; only descendants of Ali could rule. Adherents to this branch of are often associated with militant Islamic fundamentalism. It is distinguished from the larger Sunni branch.
Shi'a
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024