What is the difference between Shia and Shiite?

The terms Shia and Shiite are often used interchangeably to refer to the same branch of Islam, known as Shia Islam. Shia is the preferred term in many contexts, especially in academic and formal discussions, while Shiite is an anglicized version that is commonly used in Western literature and media. Both terms refer to the followers of Ali ibn Abi Talib, who is considered by Shia Muslims to be the rightful successor of the Prophet Muhammad as the leader of the Muslim community135.

In essence, there is no difference in meaning between the two terms; they both denote the same religious group. However, Shia is more frequently used in contemporary discourse to refer to this branch of Islam, while Shiite is often seen as a more traditional or older term in English-speaking contexts13.

Key Points:

• Shia and Shiite refer to the same branch of Islam.
• Shia is the term preferred in formal and academic contexts.
• Shiite is an anglicized version commonly used in Western literature.
• Both terms refer to followers of Ali ibn Abi Talib as Muhammad's successor.