Excellent timing! I am just started learning about Islamic intricacies - my first item of interest was that Shia had a stronger concept of defending the weak and downtrodden - which fits with your post I think.
I would agree! Both Sunnis and Shia focus on social justice and caring for those in need. But the Shia, with their focus on persecution and injustice, feel a sense of kindred spirit with downtrodden folks.
Now please explain Guelphs and Ghibellines. I have a neat trick: Guelfs are allied with the Pope (both words of one syllable) while Ghibellines line up with the Emperor (both three syllables). Easy, huh?
I've been married to my Muslim husband for 15 years and I'm pretty sure he's a Sunni but I still forget!
Excellent timing! I am just started learning about Islamic intricacies - my first item of interest was that Shia had a stronger concept of defending the weak and downtrodden - which fits with your post I think.
I would agree! Both Sunnis and Shia focus on social justice and caring for those in need. But the Shia, with their focus on persecution and injustice, feel a sense of kindred spirit with downtrodden folks.
Now please explain Guelphs and Ghibellines. I have a neat trick: Guelfs are allied with the Pope (both words of one syllable) while Ghibellines line up with the Emperor (both three syllables). Easy, huh?
This is an amazing mnemonic device! I'll never get them confused again.
Who?
They were two medieval European political factions, and it’s famously difficult to remember which side each of them stood for.