The concept of 'divide and conquer' has been used time and again successfully.

The concept of 'divide and conquer' has been used time and again successfully. For this very reason, the Muslims need to be vigilant, and strengthen their solidarity. The concepts of brotherhood, unity and jehad are the same in all Muslim communities and working with these it is possible to maintain a solid union despite the differences that do exist. If we stop fighting against each other, we will realize what a great power he Muslims are.

It is only in times of internal unity that we can expect to concentrate on higher aims and gain the upper hand over our enemies.

The late Imam Khomeini (May the Almighty be pleased with his soul) in his will told the Muslim Ummah the following: "I advise the nations of all Muslim countries to join hands in brotherhood in any country from any creed and race, wherever they may be because the great Islam needs them and honours them as brothers." It is for Muslims to sincerely pray and put an effort into creating this unity.

If we are successful in implementing such a brotherhood through the efforts of our governments and nations, then undoubtedly Muslims will flourish throughout the world. A Holy Verse Allah (S.W.T.) reminds all Muslims about their duty towards unity saying: "And hold on to the rope of Allah strong and firm and do not create any discord." Sura Ale Imran, Verse 103 SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT… The Muslim Ummah can be divided into two groups: Shia and Sunni.

Although they differ on the concept of Imamat and some areas of Fiqh, both are Muslims. They both worship One God - Allah (S.W.T.), believe in the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.w.), pray facing the Ka'bah, and accept the Holy Qur'an as the source of heavenly guidance. The Shias believe that the Prophet (s.a.w.w.) left his Ummah with a guide and spiritual leader.

On many occasions he introduced Imam Ali (a.s.) as the leader after him, therefore appointing him as the religious authority and protector of Islam after himself. Hence, Imam Ali (a.s.) was the rightly guided Imam for Muslims. On the other hand, the Ahle-Sunnah are of a different opinion i.e. that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.w.) did not appoint anyone to succeed him after his demise and this matter was left in the hands of the Ummah.

Both the Shia and Ahle-Sunnah must be aware of their common enemy - the Kuffar. They should be prepared to overcome their differences and stand united against the enemy. By doing so, the Muslims will progress and become a strong, formidable force.