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العربية
شيعيّ — meaning in English: Shiite
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Shiite
ِحًسًب/بِحًسًبِ/على حًسًب
طَلاق
شيعيّ
شَمسيّ
أبناء البِلاد
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neutral
common
Usage
The term شيعيّ (Shiite) is used primarily in discussions surrounding religious beliefs, particularly in contexts involving the Islamic faith, politics, and community identity. Native speakers might use it when discussing the differences between Shia and Sunni Muslims, or when referring to specific cultural practices during religious observances, such as Ashura.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'سنيّ' (Sunni), which refers to the other major branch of Islam. While شيعيّ (Shiite) emphasizes allegiance to Ali and his descendants, سنيّ (Sunni) focuses on the community's consensus regarding leadership. Choosing شيعيّ over سنيّ depends on the context of the discussion regarding Islamic beliefs and practices.
Culture
The word شيعيّ (Shiite) comes from the Arabic 'شيعة', meaning 'the party of Ali'. It refers to those who believe in the leadership of Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. This division within Islam dates back to the early days of the religion and carries deep cultural and historical significance, influencing political dynamics in various regions, especially in countries like Iran and Iraq.
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