Succession to the Prophet: Election or Selection?: A Sunni-Shia Discussion (Part 3 of 3)

From amongst the discussions, a number of issues emerged that offer genuine ground for unity despite the differences between the two positions of Ahl al-Sunnah and al-Shia. 

– Despite his differences of opinion, Imam Ali ultimately accepted the situation as it unfolded after the passing of the Prophet, offering his cooperation, support and help to the Caliphs. 

– This offer of Imam Ali was for the broader sake of religion and the general interests of the Ummah. Imam Ali’s perseverance for the sake of unity was identified as arguably one of his greatest virtues. The need to adopt this spirit in the modern era was agreed upon by all. 

– Imam Ali is accepted as imam and Khalifah al-Rashid by Ahl al-Sunnah,  offering a further basis for unity and harmony despite the diversity within the Ummah. (Part 3 of 3)