The Schism in Islam: Sunni and Shia

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What is the estimated number of Muslims worldwide?

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More than 1.5 billion Muslims.

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What are the two main denominations of Islam?

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Sunnism and Shiism.

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What percentage of Muslims are Sunnis?

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85-90% of the Muslim population.

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Who was Ali ibn Abi Talib?

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A cousin of the Prophet Muhammad and one of the first converts to Islam.

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What significant event does the Islamic calendar start with?

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The Hijra - the migration of Muhammad from Mecca to Medina.

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What nickname did Ali earn for his military exploits?

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Asad Allah - the Lion of God.

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What was the Ghadir Khumm episode?

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An event where Muhammad took Ali by the hand and proclaimed him as Mawla.

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How do Shia Muslims interpret the term 'Mawla' from the Ghadir Khumm episode?

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As 'leader' or 'master', indicating Ali as Muhammad's successor.

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How do Sunni Muslims interpret the term 'Mawla' from the Ghadir Khumm episode?

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As 'friend', indicating a proclamation of affinity.

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What was the Pen and Paper episode?

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An event where Muhammad asked for pen and paper to write a statement before his death, leading to a dispute.