Japanese version
Shia
alternative words: Shia Islam, Shiite, Shi'i keywords: sect related web sites: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiite , http://lexicorient.com/e.o/shii.htm , http://www.shiitecouncil.gov.lb explanation: Though absolutely minority (only 10-15% of the world Muslim population), Shia sect represents the majority in Iraq (60% of the population). They recognise only Ali, son-in-law of Muhammed and his son Hussein, as caliphs, i.e. successors of the prophet. During the reign of Saddam Hussein, they had suffered of an under representation in politics and their revolt after the Gulf War was severely repressed. Being the majority, they claim now a direct election to control themselves the state affairs. | |