The Most Popular Branch of Islam- Which One Commands the Largest Following-
Which branch of Islam has the most followers? This question often sparks debates among Muslims and scholars alike. With over 1.8 billion adherents worldwide, Islam is the second-largest religion in the world. However, determining the branch with the most followers is not an easy task, as the number of adherents can vary depending on various factors, including geographical location, cultural practices, and historical influences.
The three major branches of Islam are Sunni, Shia, and Ahmadiyya. Each branch has its unique beliefs, practices, and historical roots. The Sunni branch is the largest, followed by Shia, and Ahmadiyya. However, the exact number of followers for each branch is challenging to determine due to varying sources and methodologies used to estimate the figures.
1. Sunni Islam
The Sunni branch is the largest denomination of Islam, with estimates ranging from 85% to 90% of the global Muslim population. Sunni Muslims are found in various countries, with the highest concentration in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. The Sunni branch is characterized by its adherence to the principles of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions and the four rightly guided caliphs.
Sunni Muslims follow the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali schools of Islamic jurisprudence, also known as fiqh. These schools of thought differ in their interpretations of Islamic law, but they all agree on the core beliefs and practices of Islam. The Sunni branch is further divided into several sub-schools, such as the Sufi order, which focuses on spiritual practices and mystical experiences.
2. Shia Islam
Shia Islam is the second-largest branch of Islam, with estimates ranging from 10% to 15% of the global Muslim population. Shia Muslims are primarily found in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Shia branch is characterized by its belief in the divine appointment of Ali ibn Abi Talib as the successor to Prophet Muhammad.
Shia Muslims follow the Jaafari, Zaidi, Ismaili, and Ithna Ashari schools of thought. The Ithna Ashari school is the largest among Shia denominations, with followers in various countries, including Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. Shia Muslims are known for their strict observance of religious practices, including prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage to holy sites.
3. Ahmadiyya Islam
Ahmadiyya Islam is a relatively small branch of Islam, with estimates ranging from 0.1% to 0.2% of the global Muslim population. The Ahmadiyya movement was founded in the 19th century by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in Qadian, India. Ahmadiyya Muslims believe that Ahmad was the promised Messiah and the last prophet in Islam.
Ahmadiyya Islam is characterized by its belief in the unity of God, the equality of all human beings, and the importance of peace and tolerance. The movement is known for its active missionary work and the establishment of various welfare and educational institutions worldwide.
In conclusion, while it is challenging to determine the exact number of followers for each branch of Islam, the Sunni branch is widely considered to have the most followers. However, it is essential to recognize that Islam is a diverse religion with various branches and schools of thought, each with its unique contributions to the global Muslim community.
