5. Belief in Mohammad Mahdi
The fifth major difference between Shia and Sunni Muslims is regarding Mohammad Mahdi who is believed to be the descendent of the Prophet Muhammad and is the twelfth Imam according to Shias. They believe that Mahdi has already been born and is in occultation, and will remain so until the time comes for him to emerge and take charge in establishing a righteous rule on the planet. Sunnis, on the other hand, believe that Mahdi is yet to be born, although they concur that he will be of the Prophet’s lineage. Sunnis also believe that the Mahdi will be a pious and righteous man, but Shias hold him in much greater reverence.
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