Final answer:
Islam's practices have diversified over time, with core practices like the Five Pillars remaining central. Sunni and Shia Islam represent significant divisions with differing interpretations of leadership. Cultural integration has led to localized Islamic expressions, as documented by Ibn Battuta's travels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on Ibn Battuta's accounts, Islam and its practice have evolved significantly since the early days of Muhammad. While the core beliefs and practices, such as the Five Pillars of Islam, have remained central to the religion, the interpretations and expressions of these practices have diversified over time.
Cultural integration and local traditions in regions like India and Indonesia have led to a blend of Islamic practices with indigenous customs. These variations are also reflected in the adaptations of the Arabic script to write local languages, showing a cultural integration while maintaining Islamic faith and identity.
The similarities in Islamic religious practices around the world include the adherence to the Five Pillars of Islam, including the communal Friday prayer, and the use of the Quran as the holy book. However, there are differences too. Notably, Sunni and Shia Islam represent the two main divisions within Islam, each with its own interpretation of religious authority and practice. While the majority of Muslims are Sunni, the Shia community upholds a distinct lineage of leadership stemming from Muhammad's family. These sectarian differences have been influential throughout history, as highlighted in the disputes over Muhammad's successors and the Abbasid period.
Overall, the spread of Islam through trade, migration, and conquest has led to a rich tapestry of Islamic expression around the globe. Ibn Battuta's travel narratives underscore the interconnectedness of the Muslim world through trade routes and shared religious and legal institutions, despite the distances and differences between Islamic communities.