Sunni—One who believes leadership of Islam should come from among the Quraish Arabs, Muhammad’s tribe. Nearly 90 percent of the world’s Muslims, Sunnis follow the traditions of Islam, rather than a charismatic leader, and are considered the “orthodox” of Islam. They emphasize the individual’s direct relationship with Allah without any human mediation, are culturally and religiously diverse and do not insist on uniformity in every question of faith or practice. Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Egypt and Indonesia are among countries where Sunni Islam is dominant. Both Sunnis and Shiites believe Islam is destined for world domination. Osama bin Laden is Sunni.

Shiite—One who believes that leadership of Islam should come from descendants of Fatima, Muhammad’s only living offspring, and her husband, Ali. Literal meaning: “Partisan.” Places a heavy emphasis on leaders called imams, inspired purveyors of truth. Allows a charismatic leader power to reinterpret Islam. Official religion of Iran. Communities of believers in India, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and other areas. About 10 percent of the world’s Muslims.

Sufi—The mystics of Islam; often the prophetic voice of the faith and highly influential through the centuries; conservative Muslims view the movement with skepticism, at times see it as heretical; seek direct union with Allah through asceticism, contemplation and prayer; small in number, Sufis flourish in communities in various parts of the world by virtue of their sensitivity to and flexibility among local traditions and cultures.