#12: Profiles of Religious People - The Caliphs

The Caliph

1) Identify the basis for the split in Islam today.

One group of Muslims (shura)chose Abu Bakr (Muhammad's best friend) as the Caliph of the community and that this was the proper procedure. They are known as Sunni Muslims. Sunnis further argue that a caliph should ideally be chosen by election or community consensus.

Another group of Muslims (shura) believed that Ali, the son-in-law and cousin of Muhammad, should have replaced Muhammad as Caliph and that Caliphs were to assume authority through appointment by God rather than being chosen by the people. This group are known as Shiites Muslims.This division in thought still exists today in Islam. 2) What does Caliph mean?

The chief Muslim civil and religious ruler, regarded as the successor of Muhammad. 3) How does the lack of clear laws of succession affect the early years of Islam?

The standard Arabian practice in the early days of Islam (7th- 9th century) was for the prominent men of a kinship group, or tribe, to gather after a leader's death and elect a leader from amongst themselves. There was no specified procedure for this shura or consultation. Candidates were usually, but not necessarily, from the same lineage as the deceased leader. Capable men who would lead well were preferred over an ineffectual heir. 4) What event occurred that produced the need for a Caliph?

When Muhammad died in 632 c.e. it became necessary to choose a new leader to carry on his efforts to spread the word of Allah. Who would be the successor, or Caliph? 5) What is a Shura?

A shura is a consultation