sunni

Everyday

1. Sunni (Sunni Islam) is the largest branch, or group, of Islam; most Muslims in the world are Sunni. tree →
2. A Sunni is a Muslim who belongs to this branch. tree →
3. Sunni describes things belonging to this branch, such as Sunni mosques. tree →

In the lessons

In religious education lessons, pupils learn that Islam has two main branches, Sunni and Shia, which share the core beliefs (one God, the Prophet Muhammad, the Qur'an, the Five Pillars) but disagree about who should have led Muslims after the Prophet Muhammad died. In news, the words appear about countries in the Middle East. It should be spoken about with respect. Phrases: «Sunni Muslims», «Sunni and Shia».

Examples

• Most Muslims in the world are Sunni. tree →
• Sunni and Shia Muslims both follow the Qur'an. tree →
• In RE we learned about the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam. tree →
• My friend's family are Sunni Muslims. tree →
• The Sunni mosque was full for Friday prayers. tree →
• Sunnis and Shias share many of the same beliefs. tree →

Note

Always written with a capital letter. Pronounced «SOO-nee». Not the English word «sunny» (bright with sunshine), which sounds similar.