The question of "who is stronger, Sunni or Shia?" is unanswerable and fundamentally flawed. It attempts to compare two major branches of Islam based on a single, broad concept of "strength," which is inherently subjective and dependent on the specific context being considered.
The reference provided contains biased and inflammatory opinions, stating Sunnis are larger in number but Shia are "more ruthless and sinister." Such generalizations are harmful and inaccurate, perpetuating negative stereotypes about both groups. Strength cannot be accurately measured or compared based on sectarian affiliation.
Here's why the question is problematic:
- Defining "Strength": What does "stronger" mean in this context? Are we talking about:
- Population Size: Sunnis constitute the majority of Muslims worldwide.
- Military Power: Military capabilities depend on individual nations and alliances, not sectarian affiliation. Many countries have both Sunni and Shia populations and militaries.
- Economic Influence: Economic power varies across countries and is not directly determined by sectarian identity.
- Political Influence: Political influence fluctuates depending on regional and global dynamics.
- Religious Devotion: Religious devotion is a personal matter and cannot be compared between groups.
- Social Cohesion: Social cohesion varies within both Sunni and Shia communities depending on various factors.
- Generalizations are Inaccurate: Both Sunni and Shia Islam encompass a wide range of beliefs, practices, and cultural expressions. Generalizing about the "strength" of such diverse groups is misleading and inaccurate.
- Sectarianism is Harmful: Framing the question in terms of "strength" reinforces sectarian divisions and can contribute to conflict.
Instead of trying to determine which group is "stronger," it's more constructive to focus on promoting understanding, dialogue, and cooperation between Sunni and Shia Muslims.
