One division between Sunni and Shi'a Muslims is the question of who interprets the Qur'an and the Sunna. Who has that authority for the Shi'a?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For Shi'a Muslims, authority to interpret the Qur'an and the Sunna rests with the imam, who is believed to be divinely inspired and protected from error. This is a fundamental difference from the Sunni view, which holds that anyone capable of studying the sacred texts can interpret them.

One Division Between Sunni and Shi'a Muslims Is the Question