Sunnis refer to the largest branch of Islam, comprising the majority of Muslims worldwide. The term 'Sunnis' originates from the Arabic word "Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama'ah," meaning "the people of the tradition and the community." Sunnis follow the teachings and practices of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad as preserved in the Hadith (sayings and actions of Muhammad) and the consensus of the Islamic community.
The Sunnis acknowledge the first four caliphs - Abu Bakr, Umar ibn al-Khattab, Uthman ibn Affan, and Ali ibn Abi Talib - as the rightful and legitimate successors to Muhammad. This distinguishes them from the Shia branch, who believe that Ali was Muhammad's rightful successor and that leadership should have remained within the Prophet's family.
Sunnis believe in the fundamental pillars of Islam, namely the belief in one God (Allah); daily prayers (salat); fasting during Ramadan (sawm); making a pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj) if possible; and giving charity (zakat) to those in need.
The Sunnis form the majority of Muslims across various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and Indonesia. Within the Sunni branch, there are various schools of jurisprudence, such as Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali, each with their own interpretations of Islamic law and traditions.
Overall, Sunnis are characterized by their adherence to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, their recognition of the first four caliphs, and their emphasis on unity and consensus among the Muslim community.
