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Although both sects agree on the core fundamental principles of Islam they, in addition to the original conflict about succession, also had several other differences from one another with regard to their interpretations and traditions. One of the most important distinctions involves the legitimate authority within the community. The Sunnis always give preference to the community of the Islamic faithful in making day to day decisions. However, the Shi'ites consider the voice of the Immam (a religious leader with infallible authority) as the determining authority. On a practical level, these sects have differences in rules and times for namaz, call to prayer. For example, Shi’ites sometimes combine prayers, worshipping three times instead of five.
The Sufis
In the 11th century there arose a mystical branch of Islam, which has come to be known as Sufism. Sufis seek close, direct, and personal experience of the divine. They emphasize that realization of God can be attained in this life through faith, devotion, and meditation. Although many strands of Sufism have emerged, the core issue for Sufis is the experience of the practitioner who seeks to unite with the infinite God. A seeker
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