Shia Islam
~10-15% of Muslims. Believe Ali ibn Abi Talib was Muhammad's rightful successor. Emphasis on the Imamate — divinely guided leaders from Muhammad's family (Ahl al-Bayt).
Sub-topics
Largest Shia branch. Follows twelve Imams descended from Ali, the twelfth (Mahdi) in occultation since 874 CE. Dominant in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Bahrain.
Split from Twelvers over the seventh Imam. Led by the Aga Khan. Emphasize esoteric (batini) interpretation of the Quran. Nizari branch is the largest today.
Closest Shia branch to Sunni Islam. Named after Zayd ibn Ali. Reject divine right of Imams — any descendant of Ali can lead if qualified. Dominant in Yemen.
Syncretic sect from 9th century Syria. Deify Ali, incorporate Christian and pre-Islamic elements. Secretive theology. Ruling elite of modern Syria (Assad family).