The Sunni branch of Islam basically hold the same religious beliefs as other Muslims. The division into the Sunni and Shia branches occurred following the death of Muhammad in 632 and was caused by two opposing views of whom should take over leadership. The Sunni faction believed that the new leader should be someone who was closely associated with Muhammad and understood his vision. The Shias thought that the role was hereditary and that it could only be passed to a relative, someone specifically pointed out by the prophet, or an Imam appointed by God.

Over the years, the split has become more pronounced and the division between them has become more intense. Although approximately 85% of the Muslims are Sunni, there are strong Shia holdings in Iran and Iraq, as well as a presence in Yemen, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Syria.

The religious differences include the Sunni belief that heredity is inconsequential in picking the leaders. Contrary to the Shia belief that Imams are saints and can intercede on the believer's behalf, the Sunnis don't believe in saints and do not glorify the Imams in any way. The Sunnis also believe that a person in the leadership role must earn and keep the trust of the community. Sunnis also believe that in the afterlife, the faithful will see Allah and will be blessed by him, whereas the Shias believe that Allah has no form and cannot be seen.

There are other differences between the two factions, however the basic Islamic beliefs are the same. You can read more about the split, as well as get more information about the Islamic religion at :http://www.islamfortoday.com/shia.htm

Word Sunni is derived from Sunnah which means the actions of Prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H. Sunni is the largest sect of Islam and the followers of Sunni sect is refer as Ahlus Sunnah.
Sunni version of Islam is considered as the most authentic and oldest version of Islam. Sunni practice those things which are recorded in hadiths. The two books which are considered most authentic in Sunni version of Islam are Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslims.
Sunni sect is further divided into four more sub sects or we can say school of thoughts and all of these sub sects are accepted by one another. Followers of Sunni version of Islam accepts all the first four Caliphs as true successors of Prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H and beside this Sunni muslims also have firm belief on Hadiths narrated by companion of Prophet P.B.U.H.
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