shiite
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A Shiite: A member of one of the two main branches of Islam, which holds that Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, was his rightful successor. This branch rejects the legitimacy of the first three caliphs who succeeded Muhammad.
Usage
- The term "Shiite" is used to refer to an adherent of Shia Islam. It functions as both a noun and, less commonly, an adjective (e.g., Shiite community). It is often used in discussions of religion, history, and geopolitics.
Examples
- Noun:
- He is a devout Shiite who prays at the local mosque.
- The population of that country is predominantly Shiite.
- A conference was held to promote dialogue between Sunnis and Shiites.
Advanced Usage
- "Twelver Shiite": A member of the largest branch of Shia Islam, which believes in a line of twelve divinely appointed Imams, with the twelfth Imam being in occultation.
- Most Shiites in Iran are Twelver Shiites.
- As an attributive noun (functioning like an adjective):
- Shiite theology has distinct principles.
- The Shiite population observes Ashura.
Variants and Related Words
- Shia (noun): The branch of Islam itself; often used interchangeably with "Shiite" to refer to the group collectively.
- Shia Islam has several subsects.
- Shiism (noun): The beliefs and practices of Shia Muslims.
- The study of Shiism is complex.
- Shi'ite: An alternate spelling, often using an apostrophe.
Synonyms
- Shia Muslim: A more formal synonym.
- Alid (historical): Pertaining to the followers of Ali; used in historical contexts.
Notes on Meaning
- The term specifically denotes a religious identity within Islam. It is distinct from Sunni, the other major branch. The core difference lies in the belief about the rightful succession of leadership after the Prophet Muhammad.
Noun
- a member of the branch of Islam that regards Ali as the legitimate successor to Mohammed and rejects the first three caliphs