The spelling of the word "Soonee" may seem confusing, but it is pronounced /suːni/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This term is used to describe a member of the Sunni Muslim sect, the largest denomination in Islam. The spelling variation with a double "o" is likely due to transliteration from Arabic, where the vowel sound is elongated. While the spelling may differ from what one might expect, it is important to use accurate and respectful terminology when referring to religious groups.
Soonee is an Anglicized spelling of the term Sunni, which is a noun used to describe an individual belonging to the largest branch of Islam – Sunni Islam. Sunni refers to the adherence to the teachings and doctrines of the Sunnah, which refers to the sayings, actions, and approvals of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Soonee is primarily used as a variant spelling of this term.
Sunni Islam consists of the majority of the Muslim population worldwide, with the followers being called Sunnis or Soonees. They believe that the first four caliphs after Prophet Muhammad – Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali – were the rightful successors to lead the Muslim community. Sunnis emphasize the importance of community consensus and democratic means to select future caliphs and leaders.
Sunni Muslims consider the Quran, the holy book of Islam, as their primary source of guidance, but they also draw from additional sources, such as hadith (narrations of Prophet Muhammad's actions). They place significant importance on the concept of the ummah, which refers to the entire Muslim community, and advocate for unity and cooperation among Muslims.
While Soonee is not widely accepted as the standard English spelling of Sunni, it may be used colloquially or informally by some individuals or communities.
The term "Soonee" is an alternative spelling of "Sunni", which is derived from the Arabic word "Sunna". "Sunna" refers to the teachings, practices, and traditions of Prophet Muhammad. The term "Sunni" initially emerged around the 9th century when divisions within the Islamic community began to develop. Those who followed the Sunna, as opposed to the Shi'a sect, became known as Sunnis, which later became "Soonees" in some transliterations or pronunciations.