Shia and Sunni are the two major branches of Islam.
Tips
history
Transliteration of Arabic Shiʿah ('faction, party'). Originated from the 7th-century split over succession after Prophet Muhammad - Shia recognized Ali ibn Abi Talib as the rightful successor.
usage
Almost always used as 什叶派 (Shia denomination). Counterpart: 逊尼派 (Sunni).
