The main sources are:

• Quran

• Hadiths of Ahl al-Bayt (e.g., Nahj al-Balagha, other authentic Shia collections)

• Shia jurisprudence (Fiqh), which explains religious laws and practices

Mourning rituals aim to remember Imam Husayn’s (AS) sacrifice, teach ethics, promote justice, and prevent society from forgetting tyranny and corruption.

Hajj rituals are mostly the same. Minor differences may include specific supplications and prayers invoking the Ahl al-Bayt during pilgrimage.

Ziyarat is a form of spiritual visitation to the shrines of the Prophet’s family to seek blessings and connect with God. Prominent shrines include Imam Reza (AS) in Mashhad and Imam Husayn (AS) in Karbala.

Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (AS) at Karbala and symbolizes resistance against oppression and standing for justice. Mourning ceremonies are held on this day.

Shia prayer has minor differences, including:

• Hand positioning: hands are open by the sides rather than folded

• Prostration on a turbah (clay tablet)

• Reciting certain supplications after prayer

The fundamentals of prayer are the same in both branches.

Shias believe the 12th Imam went into hiding in the 9th century to protect him from political enemies and will reappear at the right time to establish justice.

In Twelver Shia Islam, there are 12 Imams, with the first being Imam Ali (AS) and the last being Imam Mahdi (AS), who is believed to be in occultation and will appear in the future.

The main difference lies in leadership after the Prophet. Shias believe the Imam must be appointed from the Prophet’s family by God, while Sunnis believe the leader (Caliph) can be chosen from among the Prophet’s companions.

Shia Islam is one of the two main branches of Islam. Its followers believe that leadership of the Muslim community after Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) should remain with the Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt), especially Imam Ali and his descendants.