Shi'te

Shi'te (Arabic, “sectarian”), member of one of Islam's two great sects, the other being the orthodox Sunni. The schism arose over disagreement about Muhammad's successor. The Shi'te reject the first 3 caliphs and recognize Ali (Muhammad's son-in-law) and his descendants as rightful successors. They are concentrated principally in Iran, but also with communities in Iraq, Yemen, Pakistan, Oman, and Lebanon.

See also: Islam; Sunni.