Hanafi vs Shafi'i: Two of the four major Sunni madhabs (schools of jurisprudence). Hanafi is most common in South Asia and Turkey; Shafi'i in East Africa and Southeast Asia. Differences in fiqh details — e.g., prayer posture, bleeding invalidating wudu, etc. Most Muslims in my community follow which?

Sunni vs Shia: The main split in Islam originates from disagreement over succession after the Prophet ﷺ. Sunnis (~85–90% of Muslims) followed Abu Bakr. Shia (~10–15%) believed Ali (RA) should have led. Key theological and practical differences — important to understand without bias.

Zakat vs Sadaqah: Zakat is obligatory (2.5% of qualifying wealth annually). Sadaqah is voluntary charity — any amount, any time. Sadaqat al-jariyah is ongoing charity that keeps rewarding after death (e.g., a well, a school, teaching someone).

Halal investment & finance: Islamic finance prohibits riba (interest). Exploring halal investment options — what's actually permissible for stocks, mortgages, business structures.

Music in Islam: Scholarly debate. Many scholars prohibit instruments; some permit certain types. The ruling varies by madhab and scholar. Still researching this personally.

Ghusl vs Wudu: Ghusl (full ritual bath) is required after marital relations, menses, and other major impurities. Wudu (ablution) is required before prayer and becomes nullified by minor impurities. Still clarifying exact rules.