6. Reverence of figures besides prophets
Shiite Muslims believe in Tawassul (intercession), which means they believe that supplicating to the Prophet and the Imams is permissible, whereas Sunnis perceive this as shirk or polytheism. Shia Muslims do this with the belief that Muhammad and the Imams are martyrs and are hence living and able to hear their invocations. According to Shias, since they hold favor with God they will transmit their prayers to Him.
