A: Shia in Arabic means follower
Sunnat/sunni in arabic means traditions/ People of tradition
Hence Islam is to submit and follow(shia) the traditions(Sunnat) of the prophet of Allah to be able to know Allah,thru his messengers and divinely appointed leaders.
The term Shia has been mentioned in the Quran, as in Ibrahim was the Shia of Noah in Quran (Refer to ayas 79-83:37 As-Saaffaat )
So who is a true follower (shia) of the traditions of the prophet (sunnat)? :
Hadith :
Imam Baqir (A.S) has said those who claim to be shia should know that shias are our friends and followers. They are:
1.Pious 2.Obedient 3.Humbleness 4. Uprightness 5.Trustworthiness
6.By their, Zikr-remembrance of God 7.Their salaat 8.fasting 9.Kindness to parents
10.Respect for the rights of neighbors 11. Their assistance for the poor and the disabled
12.Sympathy for the destitute 13.Loving behavior towards orphans 14.Truthfulness
15.Recitation of the Holy Quran, and acting according to all commandments and laws in it
16.True Shi’as control their tongue and use it in the best manner for beneficence
18. Wish the best for all the servants of God and 19. give shelter to their friends.