that often strongly resemble Christian mysticism. They have
been and still are ferociously persecuted as heretics in many
areas of the Islamic world.
Other notable sects include the Baha’is of Iran (who
have a presence in the United States as well), the Kharijites
of Oman, and the Alawites of Syria. These are often
considered heretics by the larger Muslim groups.
Regarding the Sunnis and Shi’ites, there are many
differences in emphasis and style of spiritual expression, but
the chief differences are the Sunni emphasis on the
Prophet’s Sunna (traditions) as the guide for believers, and
the Shi’ite belief in the Imam as the inheritor of the ‘‘light of
Muham mad’’ and leader of the Muslim community. The
Imams were the infallible interpreters of Islamic tradition.
Many Shi’ites believe that their infallibility passes to their
regents as the leaders of the Muslims, such as Iran’s
Ayatollah Khomeini.
Shi’ites do not accept the legitimacy of the first three
Caliphs who succeeded Muhammad. They differ with
Sunnis over the legitimacy of temporary marriage (Shi’ites
accept it, Sunnis do not), the conduct of prayers, and the
doctrine of the Mahdi, or the hidden Imam, who will come
on Judgment Day to restore peace and justice on earth.
Shi’ite spirituality is likewise more mystical than that of
the Sunnis, with intense veneration of Ali, prayers at the
tombs of prophets and Muslim saints, and a strong focus on
suffering and martyrdom.