Sunni Islam, known as one of the main branches of Islam, constitutes a significant portion of the Muslim population worldwide. Sunni Islam represents the mainstream traditional Islam that forms the majority of the Islamic community after the death of Prophet Muhammad. The term “Sunni” denotes their adherence to the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, indicating their strict adherence to the Sunnah (traditions) of Prophet Muhammad and the practices of the Companions (Sahaba).
Sunni Islam accepts the Quran as the primary sacred text of Islam and focuses extensively on this scripture. However, alongside the Quran, Hadiths, which record the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad, are also significant sources. Hadiths form the basis of many fields such as Islamic jurisprudence and theology. Sunni Muslims also adhere to the five pillars of Islam: Shahada (Declaration of Faith), Salah (Prayer), Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan), Zakat (Almsgiving), and Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca).
Sunni Islam encompasses various schools of jurisprudence and denominations. Among them, the most common ones include Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali. Each of these schools interprets and applies different aspects of Islam with certain variations, yet they are all based on the same fundamental principles.
Across various regions in the Islamic world, different interpretations and practices of Sunni Islam can be observed. For example, while more conservative and classical approaches prevail in countries like Saudi Arabia, more modern and liberal interpretations can be seen in other countries like Turkey.
Sunni Islam plays a significant role in various aspects of Islamic society. It has greatly influenced the development of Islam throughout history, its cultural heritage, and its political structures. Additionally, it shapes the lifestyle and daily practices of many Muslims worldwide.
Summary
Sunni Islam is one of the main branches of Islam and constitutes the majority of the Muslim population worldwide. The term “Sunni” refers to those who adhered to the tradition of following the Sunnah (traditions) of Prophet Muhammad and the legacy of his companions (Sahaba) after his death. Sunni Islam considers the Quran as the primary sacred text and records the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad through Hadiths. Sunni Muslims adhere to the five pillars of Islam: Shahada (Declaration of Faith), Salah (Prayer), Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan), Zakat (Almsgiving), and Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca). Important disciplines in Sunni Islam include fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) and kalam (theology). Sunni Muslims generally follow one of the four major schools of jurisprudence (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali).
