"Unity and Peculiarities of Islamic Sects" was the title of the eighth lecture that was delivered by Sheikh Hasan Alsaffar in Ashura season in Qatif, east of Saudi Arabia. In this lecture which was delivered in December 25th, 2009, he discussed three significant topics; difference in religion, respecting peculiarities of Islamic sects and possible unity.

Sheikh Alsaffar mentioned that some people have a naive and superficial view to difference in religion, and believe that their religion, sect or orientation is the best and the most true one. They, also, find it strange that others do not believe or accept what they believe in. Sheikh Hasan Alsaffar indicated that the issue of religion is highly sophisticated, and it is not that easy for people to change their religion or trend because they usually inherit their beliefs through generations as their language.

He said that religious affiliation grows with human beings, but after they realize the existence of other trends and orientations, they should be open and know how to deal with others. He, also, confirmed that religious orientation is part of human beings identity; therefore, they fanaticize to it and defend it as they do to their lands, interests and principles.

Alsaffar mentioned that some orientations are controlled by political or economic interests. Such interests are usually attached with certain leaderships which do not want to lose their authorities, or with some groups that do not want to be alienated among their communities that adopt the prevailing orientation.

Moreover, he stated that each trend has its peculiarities that distinguish it in various fields; ideological, doctrinal or historical. On the other hand, there are some commons with other trends that must be reinforced and used as means for rapprochement and unity. He cleared that despite the infidelity verdicts and oppression practiced against some followers of trends, people still adhered to their beliefs and principles. They would not compromise in their convictions and religious peculiarities because they represent their identities.

Sheikh Alsaffar emphasized the necessity of getting over the frustration that resulted from the tremendous amount of problems and instabilities as well as the prevailing state of pessimism of finding Sunni- Shiite unity. He, also, referred to the three approaches for possible unity. Focusing on the common beliefs such as believing in Allah, Prophet Mohammad (pbuh), Holy Qur'an, Kiblah and others is the first approach that was mentioned by Sheikh Alsaffar. The second one is political unity in which he stressed the significance of standing firmly together against challenges and anti-Muslims as citizens of one unified nation. He, also, confirmed the importance of social unity, and called for communication and openness with the other different trends.