History and Importance of Quran

1. (a) Write about how God describes Himself so humans can know Him using: [10] (i) Sura 2.255 (Ayat
al-Kursi) (ii) Sura 114 (Ikhlas). (b) How can Muslims use the verses from part (a) to connect to God in
their everyday lives? [4] ON22/11
2. (a) Write about the ways in which the Qur’an was compiled and preserved after the Prophet’s death.
[10] (b) Muslims today can access the Qur’an in a number of different ways. How useful is this? Give
reasons to support your answer. [4] ON22/12
3. (a) Write about the Qur’an and Sunna and how they are used with ijma’ in Islamic Law. [10] (b) How
has the Qur’an, as a primary source of law, helped to unify Muslims over time? [4] MJ22/11
4. (a) Give an account of the Prophet’s experience of receiving the first revelation of the Qur’an. [10] (b)
What was the significance of the Qur’an being revealed over 23 years? [4] MJ22/12
5. (a) Using passages from the syllabus, write about the duties of humankind towards God and the created
world. [10] (b) What do Muslims have to consider when looking after their environment? [4] ON21/11
6. (a) Write about the way in which the Qur’an and Sunna are used in Islamic Law. [10] (b) Give one
example where using ijma or qiyas has been significant for Muslims today. [4] ON21/12
7. (a) Give an account of the different ways in which the Prophet (pbuh) received revelation. [10] (b) The
Qur’an was not revealed all at one time. Why do you think this was important? [4] MJ21/11
8. (a) Write about the ways in which Abu Bakr, ‘Umar and ‘Uthman were involved in the compilation and
preservation of the Qur’an. [10] (b) What is the significance for Muslims to have the Qur’an written in
the form of a book? [4] MJ21/12
9. (a) Using passages from the syllabus, write about what God says about His relationship with two of His
Messengers. [10] (b) How might Muslims use the Qur’an to have a closer connection with God? [4]
ON20/11
10. (a) Describe the different ways that the Prophet (pbuh) received revelation from God. [10] (b) Why do
you think that the revelation was sent to someone who could not read or write? [4] ON20/12
11. (a) Write about the events of the first revelation received by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and how he
was reassured afterwards. [10] (b) What can Muslims today learn from the first revelation about the
importance of reading and understanding the Qur’an? [4] MJ20/11
12. (a) Using three passages you have studied from the syllabus, write about God’s relationship with His
created world. [10] (b) How might teachings from these passages encourage people to take care of their
environment? [4] MJ20/12
13. (a) Write an account of how the four sources of Islamic Law are used together. [10] (b) Why do you
think some scholars do not favour the use of qiyas? [4] ON19/11
14. (a) Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s first experience of revelation. [10] (b) The Prophet (pbuh)
could not read or write. In what way has this always been significant for Muslims? [4] ON19/12
15. (a) Write about the way in which the Qur’an was compiled after the Prophet’s death. [10] (b) How does
the Qur’an in written form help Muslims around the world? [4] MJ19/11
16. (a) Using the Qur’an passages set for special study in the syllabus, outline the relationship between God
and two of His Messengers: • Adam, • Abraham, • Jesus. [10] (b) God’s Messengers experienced trials.
How can their responses help Muslims face difficulties in their own lives? [4] MJ19/12
17. (a) Write an account of the different ways in which revelations came to the Prophet. Include examples in
your answer. [10] (b) Muslims around the world memorise/recite the Qur’an in Arabic even if they do
not understand it. What do you think are the benefits of this? [4] ON18/11
18. (a) Write an account of how the four sources of Islamic Law are used together. [10] (b) How useful are
ijma’ and qiyas when dealing with modern issues? [4] ON18/12
19. (a) The Qur’an teaches Muslims about their relationship with God. Write about this relationship using
the passages you have studied. [10] (b) ‘God gave humankind guidance and teachings.’ Why does the
Qur’an lay emphasis on the need to gain knowledge? [4] MJ18/11
20. (a) Write an account of the events of the first revelation and the Prophet’s reaction afterwards. [10] (b)
The Qur’an was revealed in parts over a number of years. Why was this important? [4] MJ18/12
21. (a) Write about the function of the Qur’an and Sunna as the two primary sources of Islamic law. [10] (b)
Why do you think the Qur’an and Sunna are not the only sources of Law and are supplemented by ijma’
and qiyas? Give examples to support your answers. [4] ON17/11
22. (a) The Qur’an has been preserved in writing for over 1400 years. Give an account of the way in which
it was compiled in the written format. [10] (b) Do you think, for Muslims nowadays, having the Qur’an
in a written format outweighs the benefits of having the oral tradition? Give reasons for your answer. [4]
ON17/12
23. (a) Choose two from the following passages and write in detail about the various ways in which the
passages describe God and how He is unique: 6.101–103, 42.4–5, 112, 41.37. [10] (b) In your opinion,
why should Muslims try to understand God’s attributes? Give reason(s) for your answer. [4] MJ17/11
24. (a) From the Qur’an passages set for special study in the syllabus, describe the ways in which God gave
knowledge of Himself to His Messengers. [10] (b) ‘Undergoing hardships brings a person closer to
God.’ Agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your answer. [4] MJ17/12
25. (a) From Qur’an passages you have studied, write about what lessons can be learnt from God’s
conversations with Adam and Jesus. [10] (b) As God’s “representative (khalifa) on Earth”, say how men
and women can serve God, giving examples. [4] ON16/11
26. (a) The first revelation came to the Prophet Muhammad in 610. Describe his experience of this event.
[10] (b) Why do you think the revelation was sent to a person who could not read or write? [4] ON16/12
27. (a) Describe the ways in which Abu Bakr, ‘Umar and ‘Uthman were involved in the compilation of the
Qur’an. [10] (b) ‘The Qur’an should not have been compiled in written form because it did not take
place during the Prophet’s lifetime.’ Agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your
answer. [4] MJ16/11
28. (a) The Qur’an is the main source of Islamic Law. Write an account of how it is used with each of the
other three sources. [10] (b) Do you think that both ijma’ and qiyas are equally important for solving
present day issues? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ16/12
29. (a) Using Qur’an passages you have studied from the syllabus, describe how God guided His
messengers to increase their belief in Him. Refer to at least two messengers in your answer. [10] (b)
God sends humankind messengers from amongst their own communities. Explain why this is
significant. [4] ON15/11
30. (a) Write about the preservation of the Qur’an in the form of the mushaf held by Hafsa. [10] (b)
‘Memorising the Qur’an is no longer important because the Qur’an is preserved as a book.’ Discuss
whether you agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your answer. [4] ON15/12
31. (a) The Angel Jibril brought the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad at different times
and places. Give examples to show how this took place. [10] (b) What was the significance of the
Prophet being given the revelation by word rather than in writing? [4] MJ15/11
32. (a) Using Qur’an passages from the syllabus, describe what the Qur’an teaches about God’s
responsibility to His creatures and their duties towards Him. [10] (b) ‘The Qur’an teaches that humans
should be responsible towards the environment.’ Give reasons to agree or disagree with this statement.
[4] MJ15/12
33. (a) Write about how the Qur’an is used with the other three sources in Islamic law. [10] (b) How
important is the use of ijma’ or qiyas in Islamic law in present day situations? Give reasons for your
answers. [4] ON14/11
34. (a) Write about the methods used to compile the Qur’an into a book after the death of the Prophet. [10]
(b) Why is understanding the teachings of the Qur’an important to Muslims? [4] ON14/12
35. (a) Give an account of how the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet. [10] (b) Was it significant that
the Qur’an was revealed to someone who could not read or write? Give reasons for your answer. [4]
MJ14/11
36. (a) The Sunna is often used with the Qur’an as a primary source of Islamic law. Describe the ways in
which they are used together. [10] (b) “The Qur’an is not as relevant to Muslims now as it was 1400
years ago.” Give two reasons to agree or disagree with this statement. [4] MJ14/12
37. (a) Write about the experiences of two prophets you have studied in the Qur’an (not including the
Prophet Muhammad). [10] (b) What lessons can Muslims learn from these stories? [4] ON13/11
38. (a) Using passages you have studied, write about the main teachings about God in the Qur’an. [10] (b)
How might these teachings affect a Muslim’s life today? [4] ON13/12
39. (a) Write about the relationship between God and two of the prophets you have studied in the Qur’an
(not including the Prophet Muhammad). [10] (b) Why do prophets go through difficulties in their lives?
[4] ON13/41 (Special Paper for Pakistan)
40. (a) Describe what the following suras tell Muslims about the circumstances in which they were
revealed: 112 (Al-Ikhlas) and 108 (Al-Kawthar). [10] (b) To what extent is the Qur’an the basis of legal
thinking in Islam? [4] MJ13/01
41. (a) Write about the Prophet’s different experiences of revelation, after the first revelation. [10] (b)
Explain the significance of the Qur’an being revealed over a period of time. [4] ON12/11
42. (a) Write about the way in which the two primary sources of Islamic legal thinking are used. [10] (b)
How is the use of ijma ’ (consensus) important to Muslims today? [4] ON12/12
43. (a) From passages you have studied from the Qur’an, write about God’s relationship with humankind.
[10] (b) Explain the significance of the Qur’an being revealed to humankind. [4] MJ12/01
44. (a) Give an account of how the Qur’an developed into book form. [10] (b) What is the significance to
Muslims today of having the Qur’an in the form of a book? [4] ON11/11
45. (a) Give an account of how the Qur’an developed into book form. [10] (b) What is the significance to
Muslims today of having the Qur’an in the form of a book? [4] ON11/12
46. (a) From the Qur’anic passages you have studied, outline the relationship between God and two of His
messengers who were sent before the Prophet Muhammad. [10] (b) Explain why God sends his
revelations through messengers. [4] MJ11/01
47. (a) Describe how the two main sources of Islamic legal thinking are related. [10] (b) Give an example to
show how the Qur’an could be used in the exercise of qiyas (analogy). [04] ON10/01
48. (a) Give an account of how the Qur’an was compiled in the years following the Prophet’s death. [10] (b)
Explain why the first community of Muslims thought it was necessary to compile the Qur’an. [4]
MJ10/01
49. (a) Write an account of the ways in which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet between the years 610
and 632. [10] (b) What does the Prophet’s first experience of revelation tell us about the nature of
prophethood in Islam? [4] ON09/01
50. (a) How are the Qur’an and Hadiths used together in Islamic legal thinking? [10] (b) Why do some legal
scholars reject the use of analogy (qiyas)? [4] MJ09/01
Life of the Prophet (PBUH)
1. (a) Write about the persecution faced by the Prophet (pbuh) after he started preaching Islam openly. [10]
(b) Choose one example of the Prophet’s conduct when persecuted and explain how it can be followed
by Muslims today. [4] ON22/11
2. (a) Write an account of the first actions taken by the Prophet (pbuh) to establish a Muslim community in
Madina. [10] (b) How might Muslims today follow the example of the community in Madina to make
their own communities stronger? [4] ON22/11
3. (a) Describe the ways in which the clans in Makka treated the Prophet (pbuh) before and after he
received revelation. [10] (b) Why was it significant that the Quraysh continued to trust the Prophet
(pbuh) with their belongings, after revelation? [4] ON22/12
4. (a) Write an account of the Prophet Muhammad’s life from his birth until he received revelation. [10]
(b) The Prophet (pbuh) was an orphan and raised by many people. How did this prepare him for
prophethood? [4] MJ22/11
5. (a) Describe the Prophet’s pilgrimage in the final year of his life and his Farewell Sermon. [10] (b) In
your opinion, what was the most important teaching from the Farewell Sermon? Give reasons to support
your answer. [4] MJ22/11
6. (a) Give an account of the tribes living in Madina and the details of the Constitution of Madina that
brought them all together. [10] (b) In your opinion, what important lesson(s) can be learned from the
Constitution of Madina by Muslims today? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ22/12
7. (a) Describe the main events of the Battle of Khaybar and the Battle of Tabuk. [10] (b) Despite their
difficulties in the Battle of Khaybar the Muslims never gave up. What might Muslims learn from this in
their everyday lives? [4] MJ22/12
8. (a) Describe the main events of the Pledges of Aqaba and the details in the Pledges. [10] (b) What might
Muslims do to set an example and welcome others who move to their areas? [4] ON21/11
9. (a) Write about the main events of the Battle of Badr. [10] (b) What can the events of the Battle of Badr
teach Muslims? [4] ON21/11
10. (a) Outline the main events from the Prophet’s night journey and ascension (al-isra wal-mi’raj). [10] (b)
In what way did this event give hope to the Prophet (pbuh)? [4] ON21/12
11. (a) Write about the events of the migration to Abyssinia by some of the early Muslims. [10] (b) What
might be learned from the way the Muslims were treated in Abyssinia? [4] ON21/12
12. (a) Describe the main events of the Prophet’s migration (hijra) from Makka to his welcome in Madina.
[10] (b) The Companions showed friendship and support for the Prophet (pbuh). How can Muslims
show friendship and support for each other? [4] MJ21/11
13. (a) Write about the events of the Battle of Khaybar and the Battle of Hunain. [10] (b) In your opinion,
which of these two battles was the most significant for Muslims? [4] MJ21/11
14. (a) Write about the events of the Battle of Uhud fought in 625. [10] (b) What lessons might be learned
from the outcome of the Battle of Uhud? [4] MJ21/12
15. (a) Giving examples from the Prophet’s life, write about how he showed both the qualities of patience
and forgiveness. [10] (b) Why should Muslims show patience in their everyday lives? [4] MJ21/12
16. (a) The Prophet (pbuh) conquered Makka in 630. Write an account of the main events of the conquest.
[10] (b) Why was it important for the Prophet (pbuh) to offer refuge to the Makkans? [4] ON20/11
17. (a) Choose three events from the Prophet’s life that demonstrate his moral character, and write in detail
about them. [10] (b) Which of these events do you think is the most relevant as a lesson for Muslims
today? [4] ON20/11
18. (a) The Prophet (pbuh) was mistreated by the Makkans after preaching the message of Islam. Write an
account of the difficulties he faced. [10] (b) How can the Prophet’s response to opposition help Muslims
when they are mistreated? [4] ON20/12
19. (a) Describe the events of the migration (hijra) from Makka to Madina. [10] (b) In what way is this
journey significant for the Muslim community now? [4] ON20/12
20. (a) The Prophet (pbuh) went to spread Islam in Ta’if. Write about the background and details of this
event. [10] (b) Giving examples, show how Muslims can practise forgiveness in their lives. [4] MJ20/11
21. (a) The Battle of the Trench (Khandaq) was fought in 627. Give an account of the main events that took
place. [10] (b) What can Muslims learn from this event about taking advice from others? [4] MJ20/11
22. (a) Give an account of the main events of the Prophet’s preaching up until the public declaration on
Mount Safa. [10] (b) What do the Prophet’s struggles in these early years teach Muslims about dealing
with their own difficulties? [4] MJ20/12
23. (a) Describe the main events of the Battle of Mu'tah and the Battle of Hunain. [10] (b) From these
battles, what can be learnt about good leadership skills? [4] MJ20/12
24. (a) The Prophet (pbuh) was generous and forgiving. Write about events from his life that demonstrate
these qualities in action. [10] (b) How easy is it for Muslims in the present day to follow the Prophet’s
generosity? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON19/11
25. (a) By referring to the Treaty of Madina, describe the relationship between the Muslims and the
non-Muslims when the Prophet (pbuh) first arrived. [10] (b) How can Muslims apply the Prophet
Muhammad’s example of compassion when building community relations? [4] ON19/11
26. (a) Write about the events related to the signing of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and the main terms in it.
[10] (b) What in your opinion were the benefits, if any, for the Muslims signing the Treaty of
Hudaybiyyah? [4] ON19/12
27. (a) Describe the events of the first battle in Islam, the Battle of Badr. [10] (b) How important was the
outcome of this battle for the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers? Give reasons for your answer. [4]
ON19/12
28. (a) Describe the events of the Prophet’s night journey and ascension (al-isra wal miraj). [10] (b) Why do
you think it was important for God to take the Prophet (pbuh) on this journey? [4] MJ19/11
29. (a) Describe the main events in the life of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from his childhood until he
received revelation. [10] (b) The Prophet (pbuh) faced challenges in his early years but maintained his
good character. How can Muslims learn from this today? [4] MJ19/11
30. (a) Give an account of the Prophet’s migration (hijra) from Makkah to Madina. [10] (b) Why was it
significant that one of the Prophet’s first tasks was to construct mosques at Quba and Madina? [4]
MJ19/12
31. (a) Write about the events of the final year of the Prophet’s life. [10] (b) Which of the Prophet’s
teachings from his final sermon do you think is the most important for Muslims today? Give reasons for
your answer. [4] MJ19/12
32. (a) The Prophet had different experiences in the caves of Hira and Thawr. Give an account of his
experiences in both caves. [10] (b) How did the events in the cave of Thawr help strengthen the
Prophet’s relationship with God? [4] ON18/11
33. (a) The Prophet Muhammad brought the message of Islam to Makka. Describe the ways the main clans
treated him after hearing his message. [10] (b) Why did the Quraysh fear the Prophet and his message
even though he was not violent or aggressive towards them? [4] ON18/11
34. (a) Giving at least four examples from his life, write about the ways in which the Prophet Muhammad
showed generosity and humility. [10] (b) Giving examples, write about how Muslims can be generous
with their neighbours. [4] ON18/12
35. (a) The Prophet Muhammad migrated to Madina from Makka. Write about the Ansar and the Muhajirun
and the way they helped each other. [10] (b) Using this example, what can Muslims do for those people
who have left their homes and come to live amongst them in their communities? [4] ON18/12
36. (a) How did Islam grow in the years between the Prophet’s first revelation and his first public preaching
in Makka? [10] (b) How can the behaviour of the first converts to Islam provide an example for
Muslims today? [4] MJ18/11
37. (a) Write about the main events of the battles of Khaybar and Tabuk. [10] (b) The Battle of Tabuk
became a mission of peace instead of war. What can Muslims learn from this? [4] MJ18/12
38. (a) The Prophet’s relationship with the Quraysh changed after he began to receive revelations. Describe
the differences in the way the Quraysh treated him after this event. [10] (b) The Prophet did not change
his character despite the way the Quraysh changed towards him. What can Muslims learn from this? [4]
MJ18/12
39. (a) ‘Uthman and Ja’far were among the companions who migrated to Abyssinia. Write an account of
this migration and the events in it. [10] (b) How does this migration compare to recent migrations of
Muslims to other countries? [4] MJ18/12
40. (a) The Prophet exercised a lot of self-restraint and patience when preaching Islam in Makka. Write
about at least three events from this period of time that show these virtues. [10] (b) Giving examples,
say how in your opinion Muslims can show self-restraint and patience in their everyday lives. [4]
ON17/11
41. (a) Give a detailed account of the Prophet’s journey from Makka to Madina in 622. [10] (b) How is the
migration of the Prophet like the migration of some Muslims now? Give reasons for your answer. [4]
ON17/11
42. (a) The Prophet went to Ta’if to teach the people there about one God. Write about his experience of this
event. [10] (b) The Prophet showed great forgiveness despite the cruelty of the people of Ta’if. Do you
think Muslims now can follow this example? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON17/12
43. (a) Write about the battle of the Trench (Khandaq) fought in 627. [10] (b) What can Muslims learn from
the Prophet’s involvement in the digging of the trench? [4] ON17/12
44. (a) The Battle of Uhud was fought in the year 625. Describe the main events of this battle. [10] (b) Why
is it important for Muslims to show obedience to God in difficult situations? [4] MJ17/11
45. (a) Write about events from the Prophet’s life that show his qualities of generosity, honesty and
simplicity in action. [10] (b) Can Muslims adopt a life of simplicity like the Prophet in current times?
Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ17/11
46. (a) The Pledges of Aqaba were made in the Prophet’s last years in Makka. Outline the reasons for these
pledges and write about the details in them. [10] (b) In your view, why should Muslims provide a safe
haven for others? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ17/12
47. (a) The Muslims in Makkah faced a lot of hostility after the Prophet began preaching openly. Describe
the persecutions against the followers of the Prophet at this time. [10] (b) In today’s world how practical
are the reactions of the Prophet’s followers to these persecutions? [4] MJ17/12
48. (a) Write about the way in which the Prophet interacted with non-Muslims after his move to Madina.
[10] (b) How can Muslims now apply the lessons learnt from the Prophet’s interaction with
non-Muslims? [4] ON16/11
49. (a) The Battle of Badr took place in the second year after the hijra. Describe the main events of this
battle. [10] (b) Can those involved in present day conflicts learn any lessons from the way the Prophet
treated prisoners after battles? [4] ON16/11
50. (a) The Prophet Muhammad was taken on a night journey and ascent to the heavens (al-‘isra
wa-l-mi’raj). Write an account of this journey. [10] (b) What was the significance of this journey to the
Prophet? [4] ON16/12
51. (a) With reference to the conduct of the Muslims, describe the events of the Conquest of Makkah. [10]
(b) Can Muslims today learn from the Prophet’s treatment of his former enemies? Give reasons for your
answer. [4] ON16/12
52. (a) The Prophet was described as humble and just. Giving examples from his life, write about events
that describe these qualities. [10] (b) How can Muslims today apply the Prophet’s example of humility
when dealing with either friends or strangers? [4] MJ16/11
53. (a) The Prophet died in 632. Write about the events of the final year of his life. [10] (b) The Farewell
Sermon given by the Prophet contains teachings for Muslims of all times. Explain how two of these
teachings can be applied today. [4] MJ16/11
54. (a) Describe the main events in the Prophet’s life before he was granted prophethood. [10] (b) ‘The
Prophet’s family was important in preparing him for prophethood.’ Agree or disagree, giving reasons for
your answer. [4] MJ16/12
55. (a) Write about the events surrounding the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and the main terms in it. [10] (b)
From this event, what can Muslims learn about the importance of keeping their word? [4] MJ16/12
56. (a) Describe the events of the Battle of Uhud. [10] (b) ‘Success for Muslims depends on their obedience
to the Prophet.’ Discuss this statement in relation to Muslims today. [4] ON15/11
57. (a) The Prophet entered Makkah and took control of it in 8AH. Describe the main details of this event.
[10] (b) The Prophet’s characteristic of mercy was clearly demonstrated in this event. Is it realistic to
expect Muslims today to follow his example? [4] ON15/11
58. (a) The Qur’an says the Prophet is of ‘great moral character’ (68.4). Identify events from his life that
show a range of his moral characteristics. [10] (b) Which of the Prophet’s characteristics you have
written about in part (a) is the most important in your opinion and why? [4] ON15/12
59. (a) Outline the difficulties the Prophet faced between receiving his first revelation and the boycott of
Banu Hashim. [10] (b) Why did some people fear the message that the Prophet had brought? [4]
ON15/12
60. (a) Write about the changes in the relationship between the Prophet and the Quraysh in the years
between his marriage to Khadija and the death of Abu Talib. [10] (b) Why is it significant that the
Quraysh were still willing to keep their belongings with the Prophet after he started to preach Islam? [4]
MJ15/11
61. (a) The Prophet paired Muslims from Makka and from Madina after the migration (hijra). Give
examples to show the character of the relationship between various Emigrants and Helpers. [10] (b)
Today Muslims often seek refuge in neighbouring countries. Show how the example of the Emigrants
and Helpers can still provide a model today. [4] MJ15/11
62. (a) Give an account of the way in which the Prophet started to preach Islam in the first few years after
he first received the revelation. [10] (b) Was it significant that the Prophet began preaching the message
in secret? [4] MJ15/12
63. (a) Write about the main events of two of the following battles: Khaybar, Mu’ta, Hunain, Tabuk. [10] (b)
Choose one of the four battles mentioned and explain what Muslim leaders now can learn from it. [4]
MJ15/12
64. (a) Describe the events of the Prophet’s visit to Ta’if. [10] (b) How can Muslims apply in practice the
lessons learnt from the Prophet’s behaviour in this situation? [4] ON14/11
65. (a) Give an account of the Prophet’s life up to the time the revelations began. [10] (b) Despite living
through the days of ignorance, the Prophet remained true to his mission. What lessons can Muslims
learn from this today? [4] ON14/11
66. (a) Write about the Prophet’s activities in spreading Islam outside Makka, before the migration to
Madina. [10] (b) Choose one quality shown by the Prophet in these activities and explain how Muslims
today can learn from it. [4] ON14/12
67. (a) Outline the Prophet’s experiences in the caves of Hira and Thawr. [10] (b) In what respects were the
Prophet’s experiences in the cave of Thawr important for his prophethood? [4] ON14/12
68. (a) The Prophet Muhammad is said to have been patient and trustworthy. Write about events in his life
that illustrate these qualities. [10] (b) Choose one of these qualities and explain why it was important for
the Prophet to possess it. [4] MJ14/11
69. (a) Give an account of the hijra of the Prophet from Makkah to Madina. [10] (b) What is the
significance of the Prophet establishing mosques as a first task after the hijra? [4] MJ14/12
70. (a) Write about the main events of the battles of Khaybar and Mu’ta. [10] (b) Choose one of these
battles and explain why it was important for the Muslims of Madina to fight in it? [4] MJ14/12
71. (a) Write about the Prophet’s night journey and ascension [al-‘isra wa-mi’raj]. [10] (b) How did this
journey help the Prophet in his mission? [4] ON13/11
72. (a) Give an account of the migration of the early Muslims to Abyssinia. [10] (b) What was the
significance of this migration for the early Muslim community? [4] ON13/11
73. (a) Write an account of the battle of Badr. [10] (b) Can the Prophet’s conduct during this battle contain
lessons for military leaders today? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON13/12
74. (a) Describe the events of the final year of the Prophet’s life. [10] (b) Explain how any two teachings
given in the Prophet’s Farewell Sermon can help Muslim communities today. [4] ON13/12
75. (a) Abu Talib died in 619. Describe the events following this that led to the Prophet’s migration (hijra)
to Madina. [10] (b) Why was this migration important for the Muslim community? [4] ON13/41
(Special Paper for Pakistan)
76. (a) Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s interaction with non-Muslims in Madina. [10] (b) What can
Muslims learn from this interaction? [4] ON13/41 (Special Paper for Pakistan)
77. (a) Write about the events of the first year following the Prophet’s arrival in Madina. [10] (b) What
lessons can Muslims learn from the brotherhood that was created in Madina? [4] MJ13/01
78. (a) Describe the events of the Conquest of Makkah. [10] (b) Why are the actions of the Prophet after the
conquest important for Muslims to learn from? [4] MJ13/01
79. (a) Describe three qualities of the Prophet Muhammad that make him a model for humankind. [10] (b)
How can Muslims put one of these qualities into practice? [4] ON12/11
80. (a) Give an account of the events surrounding the Pledges of ‘Aqaba and the main details in them. [10]
(b) How were these pledges important for the future community of Muslims? [4] ON12/12
81. (a) Describe the persecution faced by the first Muslims in Makkah. [10] (b) What can Muslims in
modern times learn from these stories? [4] ON12/12
82. (a) Give an account of the battles of Khandaq (Trench) and Khaybar. [10] (b) What lessons can Muslims
learn from either of these battles? [4] MJ12/01
83. (a) Describe the main events relating to the first migration (hijrah) of Muslims to Abyssinia. [10] (b)
What was the importance of making this migration at that time? [4] MJ12/01
84. (a) Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s interaction with the Quraysh while he lived in Makka, before
and after revelation. [10] (b) Why did the Quraysh feel they needed to reject the Prophet’s message? [4]
ON11/11
85. (a) Describe the Prophet’s conduct as leader in two of the battles he fought in. [10] (b) What can Muslim
leaders today learn from the Prophet’s conduct in their relations with other states? [4] ON11/11
86. (a) Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s interaction with the Quraysh while he lived in Makka, before
and after revelation. [10] (b) Why did the Quraysh feel they needed to reject the Prophet’s message? [4]
ON11/12
87. (a) Describe the Prophet’s conduct as leader in two of the battles he fought in. [10] (b) What can Muslim
leaders today learn from the Prophet’s conduct in their relations with other states? [4] ON11/12
88. (a) Give an account of the events of the Prophet’s night journey and ascension [‘Isra wa-mi’raj ]. [10]
(b) Explain the importance of this event to the Prophet himself. [4] MJ11/01
89. (a) Describe the difficulties faced by the followers of the Prophet in Makkah. [10] (b) What can these
stories teach Muslims in their everyday lives today? [4] MJ11/01
90. (a) Describe the main difficulties confronted by the Prophet (PBUH) himself during his time in Makkah
after his call to prophethood. [10] (b) How does his conduct in one of these difficulties provide an
example for Muslims today. [4] ON10/01
91. (a) Outline the main events of Prophet (PBUH)’s journey from Makkah to Madina. [10] (b) What was
the significance of this journey for the Muslims. [4[ ON10/01
92. (a) Write about the life of the Prophet up until the first revelation. [10] (b) Why was his relationship
with his wife Khadija important for him? [4] MJ10/01
93. (a) Describe the events relating to the Prophet’s experiences in caves. [10] (b) Explain the significance
of one of these experiences for the development of Islam. [4] MJ10/01
94. (a) Describe two events from the life of the Prophet that illustrate the way he treated non-Muslims. [10]
(b) How can these examples help Muslims today in their relationships with non-Muslims? [4] ON09/01
95. (a) Trace the events that led up to the Prophet’s migration (hijra). [10] (b) Explain the importance of the
Pledges of ‘Aqaba to the Prophet in the period leading up to the migration. [4] ON09/01
96. (a) Describe the events of two of the battles fought by the Prophet while he was leader of the
community at Madina. [10] (b) How does his conduct in one of these battles provide a model for
Muslims today when they face difficulties? [4] MJ09/01
97. (a) Write an account of the first migration (hijra) of the Muslims to Abyssinia. [10] (b) Why did the
people of Makka pursue these Muslims? [4] MJ09/01
First Muslim Community
1. (a) Write about the lives of the Prophet’s uncles: Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib and Abu Talib. [10] (b)
What can be learned from Abu Talib’s example of support for the Prophet (pbuh)? [4] ON22/11
2. (a) Write about the lives of the Prophet’s grandsons: Hassan ibn ‘Ali and Hussain ibn ‘Ali. [10] (b)
Hussain defended what he believed was right for the future of Islam. What lessons might Muslims learn
from this? [4] ON22/12
3. (a) Write about the lives of two of the following wives of the Prophet (pbuh): • Sawda bint Zama’a •
Aisha bint Abu Bakr • Hafsa bint ͑Umar • Umm Salama. [10] (b) Choose from one of the wives named
in part (a) and write about what her life might teach Muslims about the role of women in society. [4]
ON22/12
4. (a) Write about the various tasks performed by some of the Prophet’s Companions as his Scribes. [10]
(b) What are the benefits of the Qur’an being available to everyone on the internet? [4] MJ22/11
5. (a) Write about the lives of the Companions Bilal ibn Rabah and Abu Sufyan ibn Harb. [10] (b) What
lessons can be learned about equality from either Bilal’s or Abu Sufyan’s conversion to Islam? [4]
MJ22/12
6. (a) Write about the lives of two of the following Companions: Salman al-Farsi, Ja’far ibn Abi Talib,
Abd al-Rahman ibn Awf. [10] (b) Even when they had wealth, some Companions lived simple lives.
How can Muslims show simplicity in their everyday lives? [4] ON21/11
7. (a) Write about the lives of ‘Umar and ‘Uthman during the lifetime of the Prophet (pbuh). [10] (b) What
lessons can be learned from ‘Uthman’s life before he became Caliph? [4] ON21/12
8. (a) The first wife of the Prophet (pbuh) was Khadija. Write about the main events of her life. [10] (b)
What does Khadija’s marriage to the Prophet (pbuh) teach Muslims about family relationships? [4]
MJ21/11
9. (a) Write about the life of the Prophet’s daughter, Fatima. [10] (b) What can be learned from her life
about the relationship between parents and children? [4] MJ21/12
10. (a) Describe the main difficulties faced by the early followers of Islam. [10] (b) How can these events
give hope to Muslims today? [4] ON20/11
11. (a) Write about the brotherhood in Madina that developed between the Helpers (Ansar) and the
Emigrants (Muhajirun). [10] (b) How can Muslims today show their brotherhood and sisterhood
towards each other? [4] ON20/12
12. (a) Write an account of the life of the Prophet’s Companion Abu Bakr, during the Prophet’s lifetime.
[10] (b) Abu Bakr used his wealth to help others. How can Muslims follow his example today? [4]
MJ20/11
13. (a) Give an account of the life of the Prophet’s wife Aisha during the lifetime of the Prophet (pbuh). [10]
(b) From the example of Aisha, what lessons can be learnt about education in Islam? [4] MJ20/12
14. (a) Some Muslims travelled to Abyssinia. Describe what happened to the groups that migrated. [10] (b)
In your opinion, was this migration similar to Muslim migrations today? Give reasons for your answer.
[4] ON19/11
15. (a) Write about the lives of ‘Uthman and ‘Ali during the lifetime of the Prophet (pbuh). [10] (b) From
‘Ali’s early life, what lessons can young people learn about their role in the community? [4] ON19/12
16. (a) In Madina, the Helpers (Ansar) and Emigrants (Muhajirun) were made brothers. Give an account of
the main developments of this relationship. [10] (b) How can Muslims apply this model of brotherhood
to help their communities? [4] MJ19/11
17. (a) Write a detailed account of the lives of Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib and Khalid ibn Walid during the
lifetime of the Prophet (pbuh). [10] (b) Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib showed loyalty to the Prophet
(pbuh). How can Muslims show loyalty in their everyday lives? [4] MJ19/12
18. (a) Two of the Prophet’s wives were Aisha and Hafsa. Write an account of their lives during the lifetime
of the Prophet. [10] (b) Both wives were narrators of Hadith. What can Muslims learn from this about
women and education? [4] ON18/11
19. (a) Write a detailed account of the lives of the Prophet Muhammad’s daughters, Zaynab and Fatima.
[10] (b) What can Muslims learn from the Prophet about the relationship between fathers and
daughters? [4] ON18/12
20. (a) Write an account of the main events in the life of Abu Bakr during the life of the Prophet. [10] (b)
How can Muslims use the example of Abu Bakr in showing loyalty to their friends and colleagues? [4]
MJ18/11
21. (a) Describe in detail the roles of Halima and Abu Talib in the early years of the Prophet’s life. [10] (b)
From these relationships, what can be learnt about keeping family ties? [4] MJ18/11
22. (a) ‘Uthman and Ja’far were among the companions who migrated to Abyssinia. Write an account of
this migration and the events in it. [10] (b) How does this migration compare to recent migrations of
Muslims to other countries? [4] MJ18/12
23. (a) Write about the lives of the Companions Bilal ibn Rabah, Ja’far ibn Abi Talib and Salman al-Farsi.
[10] (b) In your opinion, what is the significance of the Prophet encouraging the liberation of Bilal and
Salman from slavery? [4] ON17/11
24. (a) Khadija bint Khuwaylid was the Prophet’s first wife. Write an account of her life in the period she
knew the Prophet. [10] (b) The Prophet’s employer was a woman who was successful in business. What
lessons can be derived from this for Muslims now? [4] ON17/12
25. (a) Write about the lives of Fatima and any one other of the Prophet’s daughters. [10] (b) Explain the
importance of the statement, ‘Daughters are a mercy (rahma)’. [4] MJ17/11
26. (a) Outline the tasks performed by the Prophet’s scribes during his lifetime. [10] (b) The scribes had the
Prophet as a source of information. How useful is the internet as a source of information about Islam?
[4] MJ17/12
27. (a) Give an account of the difficulties experienced by the early Muslim community in Makka. [10] (b)
Drawing from this account, what advice could be given to Muslims now living in fear of persecution?
[4] ON16/11
28. (a) Give an account of the lives of ‘Uthman and ‘Ali during the lifetime of the Prophet. [10] (b)
‘Uthman was known to be generous with his wealth. How can Muslims now apply the trait of
generosity? [4] ON16/12
29. (a) The Prophet allowed some of the early Muslims to move to Abyssinia. Write about the events of this
migration. [10] (b) Can this migration be compared to the migration of some Muslims today? Give
reasons for your answer. [4] MJ16/11
30. (a) Write about the lives of the Prophet’s uncles, Hamza and Abu Sufyan. [10] (b) Many of the people
who had been enemies of the Prophet accepted Islam. What lessons can Muslims learn from this? [4]
MJ16/12
31. (a) Give an account of the lives of ‘Ali ibn Talib and Zayd bin Harith during the life of the Prophet. [10]
(b) To what extent do ‘Ali and Zayd’s relationships with the Prophet provide models for family relations
today? [4] ON15/11
32. (a) Write about the lives of two of the Prophet’s wives whom he married after the death of Khadija. [10]
(b) “The best of you is the one best to his wife.” Explain what the Prophet meant by this statement and
how it is relevant to Muslims now. [4] ON15/12
33. (a) Write about the role of ‘Umar in the lifetime of the Prophet. [10] (b) What lessons can Muslims learn
from ‘Umar’s conversion? [4] MJ15/11
34. (a) Write about the Prophet’s wife Aisha during the lifetime of the Prophet. [10] (b) ‘Aisha is a role
model for Muslim women around the world.’ Say whether you agree or disagree with this statement,
giving reasons for your answer. [4] MJ15/12
35. (a) Write about the role played by Abu Bakr during the period between the first revelation and the death
of the Prophet. [10] (b) What lessons can Muslims learn from Abu Bakr’s conduct in this period, and
how are these lessons relevant now? [4] ON14/11
36. (a) Give an account of the lives of Abu Sufyan and Khalid bin Walid during the time of the Prophet.
[10] (b) In your opinion, can Muslims today learn anything from Abu Sufyan’s involvement with the
Prophet? [4] ON14/12
37. (a) Describe the roles played by Abu Talib and Hamza in the life of the Prophet. [10] (b) Did the role of
Abu Talib help strengthen the early Muslim community? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ14/11
38. (a) Write briefly about the tasks carried out by the Scribes of the revelation at the time of the Prophet.
[10] (b) Explain the importance of the principles employed by the compilers of the Qur’an at the time of
the Caliphs. [4] MJ14/11
39. (a) Write about the life of the Prophet Muhammad’s first wife Khadija. [10] (b) Taking two aspects of
their relationship, explain how the marriage of the Prophet and Khadija sets a good example for Muslim
marriages today? [4] MJ14/12
40. (a) Write about the brotherhood that developed between the new community of Muslims in Madina.
[10] (b) How is this brotherhood a good example for Muslim communities now? [4] ON13/11
41. (a) Give an account of the lives of the Prophet’s four daughters. [10] (b) Can Muslims learn from the
Prophet’s bond with Fatima? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON13/12
42. (a) Give an account of the persecutions faced by the early converts to Islam in Makka. [10] (b) How are
these accounts relevant to Muslims now? [4] ON13/41 (Special Paper for Pakistan)
43. (a) Write about the lives of ‘Umar and ‘Uthman during the lifetime of the Prophet. [10] (b) Why was
‘Umar’s conversion important for the early Muslims? [4] MJ13/01
44. (a) Write about the Prophet’s relationship with the following figures: Aminah, Halimah Sa’adiah and
Abu Talib. [10] (b) What can these relationships teach Muslims today about family ties? [4] ON12/11
45. (a) Write about the main points in the lives of Bilal and Abu Sufyan. [10] (b) What can be learnt from
Bilal’s role in the Islamic community? [4] ON12/11
46. (a) Write about the lives of any two of the following wives of the Prophet: Sawda bint Zama’a, Aisha
bint Abu Bakr, Hafsa bint ‘Umar and Umm Salama. [10] (b) What can the life of any one of these wives
teach Muslims about marriage? [4] ON12/12
47. (a) Describe the persecution faced by the first Muslims in Makkah. [10] (b) What can Muslims in
modern times learn from these stories? [4] ON12/12
48. (a) Outline the main events in the lives of the Prophet’s grandsons al-Hasan and al-Husayn. [10] (b)
Explain how al-Husayn’s death remains important to Muslims today. [4] MJ12/01
49. a) Write about the life of Aisha during the Prophet’s lifetime. [10] (b) How can she be seen as a role
model for Muslims now? [4] ON11/11
50. (a) Write about the life of Aisha during the Prophet’s lifetime. [10] (b) How can she be seen as a role
model for Muslims now? [4] ON11/12
51. (a) Write an account of the following figures during the lifetime of the Prophet: Hamza, ‘Abu Bakr and
‘Ali. [10] (b) Explain why one of these figures was important in the development of the Islamic
community. [4] MJ11/01
52. (a) Write about the major contribution made to Islam by Abu Bakr during the lifetime of the Prophet
(PBUH). [10] (b) Why was Abu Bakr given the title ‘Saviour of Islam’? [4] ON10/01
53. (a) Describe the teachings of Islam about the position of women as wives, mothers and daughters. [10]
(b) What do these teachings tell us about the relationship between men and women? [4] MJ10/01
54. (a) Write briefly about the conversion to Islam of Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman and ‘Ali. [10] (b) In what
ways did the conversion of ‘Umar help the young Muslim community? [4] ON09/01
55. (a) Write accounts of the lives of the Prophet’s two grandsons al-Hasan and al-Husayn. [10] (b) Explain
why they each died in the way they did. [4] MJ09/01
History and Importance of Hadith
1. (a) Hadiths and the Qur’an are the primary sources of Islamic Law. Describe how the two are used
together in law-making. [10] (b) In your opinion, why is consensus (ijma’ ) important in the Muslim
world today? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] ON22/21
2. (a) Using four of the set Hadiths, outline the Prophet’s teachings about how a Muslim should conduct
their personal life. [10] (b) In your opinion, what are the communal benefits of following the Prophet’s
Hadiths? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] ON22/22
3. (a) Write an account of the following three categories of Hadiths: • Sound Hadith (Sahih) • Good Hadith
(Hasan) • Weak Hadith (Da’if). [10] (b) In your opinion, why was it considered important to classify
Hadiths into Sahih, Hasan and Da’if? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ22/21
4. (a) Consensus (ijma’) is the third source of Islamic law. Write an account of ijma’ and give two
examples of how it was practiced in the time of the Companions. [10] (b) ‘By using analogy (qiyas) the
laws of Islam can be applied at any time and in any case.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your
answer. [4] MJ22/22
5. (a) Referring to the set Hadiths write about the benefits to the community of following the Prophet’s
guidance. [10] (b) Why is the example of the Prophet (pbuh) important for Muslims today? [4] ON21/21
6. (a) Write about the checks made on the transmitters of Hadiths and on the text of Hadiths to ensure their
authenticity. [10] (b) Why was so much importance given to collecting and preserving authentic
Hadiths? [4] ON21/22
7. (a) Write a detailed account of the two components of Hadiths: • chain of transmission (isnad) and • text
(matn) [10] (b) Both of these components are equally important for establishing the authenticity of
Hadiths. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ21/21
8. (a) Write about the importance of knowing the Prophet’s Hadiths and following his Sunnah for
Muslims. [10] (b) Why are belief and action both important for Muslims? Give reasons to support your
answer. [4] MJ21/22
9. (a) Describe the method used to make a judgement by analogy (qiyas) using the Qur’an and Hadith.
Give examples to support your answer. [10] (b) Why do you think the Prophet (pbuh) encouraged the
use of personal reasoning amongst his Companions? [4] ON20/21
10. (a) Write an account of: • the reasons given by scholars for compiling Hadith collections, and; • the
checks made to confirm their authenticity. [10] (b) What is the purpose of having false Hadiths in
Hadith collections? [4] ON20/22
11. (a) Write an account of the collection of Hadiths during: • the Prophet’s lifetime, and • the time of the
Companions immediately after the Prophet’s death. [10] (b) In your opinion what were the main reasons
for Hadith collections? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ20/21
12. (a) Outline the relationship between the Qur’an and Hadith when formulating Islamic law. [10] (b) What
is the importance of consensus (ijma’) in the Muslim world today? Give reasons for your answer. [4]
MJ20/22
13. (a) From the set Hadiths you have studied outline the Prophet’s teachings on the individual conduct of
Muslims. [10] (b) How do Muslims benefit in their community life by following the guidance given in
the Prophet’s Hadiths? [4] ON19/21
14. (a) Write a detailed account of the musannaf and musnad collections of Hadith. [10] (b) In your opinion,
from the two Hadith collections above, which is the more useful to Muslims? Give reasons for your
answer. [4] ON19/22
15. (a) Give a detailed account of the checks made on the text and narrators of Hadiths. [10] (b) In your
opinion what are the main advantages of carrying out checks to confirm the reliability of Hadiths? [4]
MJ19/21
16. (a) Write an account of the compilation of Hadiths during the period of the Successors of the Successors
(tabi’ al-tabi’in). [10] (b) Why do you think the chain of narrators (isnad) of a Hadith is given so much
importance in establishing its genuineness? [4] MJ19/22
17. (a) What measures were taken in early Islamic times to check the reliability of Hadiths? [10] (b) Why
was it important for the Muslim community to have authentic Hadiths? [4] ON18/21
18. (a) Hadiths are broadly classified as sound (sahih), good (hasan) and weak (da’if). Write a detailed
account of these three categories of Hadiths. [10] (b) What in your opinion is the importance of
classifying Hadiths? [4] ON18/22
19. (a) Outline the relationship between the Hadith and the Qur’an as sources of Islamic law. Give examples
to support your answer. [10] (b) Why have Muslims, right from the earliest years of Islam, attached so
much importance to the Prophet’s Hadiths? [4] MJ18/21
20. (a) Why did it become important to compile the prophetic Hadiths after the time of the Rightly Guided
Caliphs? [10] (b) In your opinion, can Islam be practised without the Hadiths? [4] MJ18/22
21. (a) Write an account of how the Hadiths of the Prophet stress upon the unity of the Islamic community.
Use at least four set Hadiths from the syllabus to develop your answer. [10] (b) Why do you think Islam
gives so much importance to maintaining unity within the Islamic community? [4] ON17/21
22. (a) Write about the relationship between the Qur’an and the Hadiths of the Prophet and say what the
difference is between Hadith Qudsi and Hadith Nabawi. [10] (b) Why do you think it was important for
the Prophet to give permission to his companions to write down his Hadiths? [4] ON17/22
23. (a) Write a descriptive account of the terms isnad and matn of a Hadith and the role they play in
establishing the genuineness of a Hadith. [10] (b) How does the Muslim community benefit by having
genuine compilations of Hadiths? [4] MJ17/21
24. (a) ‘My community will never agree upon an error.’ The Prophet’s Hadith encourages the use of
consensus of opinion (ijma’ ). Outline: • what consensus of opinion (ijma’ ) is, and how many kinds of
ijma’ there are; • who is qualified to practise it; • give examples of how the Prophet and the Rightly
Guided Caliphs practised ijma’. [10] (b) Why are some Muslims not in favour of the use of analogy
(qiyas) in solving present day issues? [4] MJ17/22
25. (a) Describe the relationship of Hadiths with the Qur’an, giving examples of how Hadiths are used in
understanding God’s words. [10] (b) ‘By using the principle of analogy (qiyas) the basic laws of Islam
can be applied at any time and in any case.’ Do you agree? [4] ON16/21
26. (a) Giving references from the set Hadiths you have studied, outline the Prophet’s teachings about care
in the community. [10] (b) How can the teachings of the Prophet concerning care in the community be
applied today? [4] ON16/22
27. (a) What is the role of Hadiths as a source of guidance in the lives of Muslims? [10] (b) How are
Muslims obeying God when they obey the Prophet? [4] MJ16/21
28. (a) Write a detailed account of the parts of a Hadith and say how these parts help in determining the
different categories of Hadiths, namely; sahih; hasan; da’if and mawdu’. [10] (b) Why do you think the
Prophet practised and encouraged the use of ijma’? [4] MJ16/22
29. (a) Describe how the Prophet’s Hadiths can be used together with the Qur’an to help Muslims
understand and practise their faith. [10] (b) How could your community be improved by applying the
Prophet’s Hadiths more fully? [4] ON15/21
30. (a) Outline the roles of the following in formulating Islamic law: (i) The Prophet’s Hadiths (ii)
Consensus (ijma’ ) [10] (b) Some Muslim scholars have questioned the use of analogy (qiyas) in Islamic
law. Why do you think they have done so? [4] ON15/22
31. (a) Write an account of the parts that make up a Hadith, and describe the checks made by the collectors
of the Hadiths to ensure the accuracy of their collections. [10] (b) Why was it important to check the
accuracy of Hadiths? [4] MJ15/21
32. (a) Give an account of how the Prophet’s Hadiths have been a source of guidance to Muslims in putting
their faith into practice. [10] (b) Why do the Prophet’s Hadiths link belief and action so closely? [4]
MJ15/22
33. (a) What do Muslims generally understand by the terms: • isnad and matn of Hadiths; • musannaf and
musnad Hadiths? [10] (b) Which in your opinion is more beneficial for Muslims to have; musannaf
collections or musnad collections of Hadiths? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON14/21
34. (a) Outline the main teachings of the set Hadiths about the conduct of Muslims in communal life. [10]
(b) How do you think following the guidance of the Prophet (pbuh) as regards communal living can
improve society today? [4] ON14/22
35. (a) Describe how the compilers of the Prophet’s Hadiths checked the biographies of the transmitters, and
say why they thought it was important to do so. [10] (b) In your opinion what are the main advantages
of having authentic Hadiths? [4] MJ14/21
36. (a) What rules did the writers of the six authentic books (Sihah Sitta) apply to ensure the authenticity of
Hadiths? [10] (b) Why in your opinion was it important for them to apply these rules? [4] MJ14/22
37. (a) Write about the structure of a Hadith and describe the main methods used by the compilers of
Hadiths to establish their genuineness. [10] (b) What was the significance of the Prophet not allowing
the writing down of Hadiths in the early days of his prophethood? [4] ON13/21
38. (a) Describe how the Hadiths are used in establishing law in Islam. [10] (b) ‘My community will never
agree upon an error’. In your opinion why is this Hadith important for the practice of consensus (ijma)?
[4] ON13/22
39. (a) From the set Hadiths outline the Prophet’s teachings about the conduct of the individual in the
community. [10] (b) How does following the example of the Prophet in one’s behaviour towards others
affect the community? [4] ON13/42 (Special Paper for Pakistan)
40. (a) Why do Muslims need to know about the Prophet’s Hadiths and what benefit do they hope to get by
following his sunnah? [10] (b) Briefly discuss why the need arose during the early Islamic period to
compile the Hadiths of the Prophet. [4] MJ13/02
41. (a) Outline how the following sources are used in establishing Islamic law: (i) Hadith and Sunnah; and
(ii) Qiyas. [10] (b) How easy is it to use ijma in Islamic legal thinking today? [4] ON12/21
42. (a) What are the different types of Hadiths? How is each Hadith classified into the different types? [10]
(b) Giving one example, explain how the Sunna is important in a Muslim’s life today. [4] ON12/22
43. (a) According to the teachings of the set Hadiths you have studied, outline the ways in which Muslims
should treat one another. [10] (b) What are the advantages of having different categories of Hadiths? [4]
MJ12/02
44. (a) Outline the main teachings of the Hadiths you have studied, from the passages set for special study,
about the responsibilities of individual Muslims. [10] (b) Explain by giving an example how a Hadith
has been used together with the Qur’an in working out an Islamic law. [4] ON11/21
45. (a) Outline the main teachings of the Hadiths you have studied, from the passages set for special study,
about the responsibilities of individual Muslims. [10] (b) Explain by giving an example how a Hadith
has been used together with the Qur’an in working out an Islamic law. [4] ON11/22
46. (a) What part do Hadiths play in Islamic legal thinking? [10] (b) What is the importance of consensus
(ijma) in Islam? [4] MJ11/02
47. (a) How have the Hadiths of the Prophet been used as a source of guidance by Muslims? [10] (b) ‘Truly,
My mercy overcomes My wrath.’ This is a Hadith Qudsi. What is special about Hadiths of this kind? [4]
ON10/02
48. (a) How did the compilers of Hadiths (muhaddithun) judge between acceptable and unacceptable
Hadiths? [10] (b) How are the Qur’an and Hadith employed in working out Islamic law? [4] MJ10/02
49. (a) Describe the methods employed by the compilers of the major books of Hadith to ensure the Hadiths
they collected were authentic. [10] (b) Why is it important for Muslims to have collections of authentic
Hadiths? [4] ON09/02
50. (a) Outline the main teachings of the Hadiths you have studied about the importance of Muslim
communal life. [10] (b) Explain the main differences between musnad and musannaf Hadiths. [4]
MJ09/02
The Rightly Guided Caliphate
1. (a) Give an account of the steps taken by Abu Bakr to establish his caliphate. [10] (b) In your opinion,
which one of Abu Bakr’s achievements as caliph was the most significant? Give reasons to support your
answer. [4] ON22/21
2. (a) Give an account of the administrative reforms that improved the lives of people in ͑Umar’s caliphate.
[10] (b) What do ͑Umar’s actions in his last days after his attack tell you about his character? [4]
ON22/22
3. (a) Write about the Battle of the Bridge and the Battle of Buwayb, fought during the caliphate of ͑ Umar.
[10] (b) Why was victory in the Battle of Buwayb significant for Muslims? [4] MJ22/21
4. (a) Give an account of the main reasons for the revolt against ͑ Uthman’s rule and the events of the
rebellion in Madina. [10] (b) In your opinion, what was the most serious consequence of ͑ Uthman’s
assassination? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ22/21
5. (a) Write an account of the leadership qualities shown by the Rightly Guided Caliphs during their rule.
Give examples to support your answer. [10] (b) Choose an example of leadership shown by the Rightly
Guided Caliphs and say how it can be applied by leaders today. [4] MJ22/22
6. (a) Write an account of the martyrdom of ͑Uthman and the election of ͑Ali as caliph. [10] (b) Why do you
think ͑Ali encountered so much opposition after becoming caliph? [4] MJ22/22
7. (a) ͑ Uthman was the third caliph of Islam. Write an account of his election and the administration of his
caliphate. [10] (b) ‘ ͑ Uthman’s greatest achievement as caliph was the compilation of the Qur’an’. Do
you agree or disagree? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] ON21/21
8. (a) Write a detailed account of the Battle of the Camel. [10] (b) What was the most serious consequence
of this battle to the Muslims at the time it was fought? Give reasons to support your answer. [4]
ON21/22
9. (a) Write about the role of ͑Umar and ͑Uthman in preserving the Qur’an. [10] (b) In your opinion, were
the two stages of the preservation of the Qur’an equally important? Give reasons to support your
answer. [4] ON21/22
10. (a) Write an account of the false prophet Musailimah and the battle fought against him in 632. [10] (b)
What was the importance of this battle to future generations of Muslims? [4] MJ21/21
11. (a) Give an account of the election of Abu Bakr and the expedition he sent to Syria soon after becoming
caliph. [10] (b) Explain the most significant action Abu Bakr took as caliph. [4] MJ21/22
12. (a) Write in detail about the Battle of Siffin and the events that led up to it. [10] (b) In your opinion,
what was the main consequence of this battle? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ21/22
13. (a) Give an account of the administration of the caliphate under ‘Uthman. [10] (b) In your opinion what
was ‘Uthman’s greatest achievement as caliph? [4] ON20/21
14. (a) Write a descriptive account of the Battle of Siffin and the arbitration that followed it. [10] (b) What
in your opinion was the most serious outcome of the arbitration? Give reasons to support your answer.
[4] ON20/21
15. (a) Write an account of how Abu Bakr led the Islamic empire when he became the first caliph. [10] (b)
Why was defeating the false prophets so important to the stability of the Islamic state during Abu Bakr’s
caliphate? [4] ON20/22
16. (a) Write about the compilation of the Qur’an in the caliphates of both Abu Bakr and ‘Uthman. [10] (b)
In your opinion was the compilation of the Qur’an the greatest achievement of the two caliphs? Give
reasons for your answer. [4] MJ20/21
17. (a) Write an account of the administration of the caliphate under ‘Umar. [10] (b) In your opinion what
was the most important feature of ‘Umar’s administration? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ20/21
18. (a) Write a detailed account about the Battle of Yarmouk fought in the caliphate of ‘Umar. [10] (b) What
was the significance of the conquest of Jerusalem in ‘Umar’s caliphate? Give reasons for your answer.
[4] MJ20/22
19. (a) Write an account of the achievements of Abu Bakr as the first caliph of Islam. [10] (b) Which was
his greatest contribution as caliph? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON19/21
20. (a) Give a detailed account of the following events: • the opposition faced by ‘Ali when he became
Caliph and • the Battle of Camel [10] (b) In your opinion what was the greatest threat faced by ‘Ali
during his caliphate? [4] ON19/21
21. (a) Write a detailed account of the election of Abu Bakr as the first caliph and the action he took against
any two of the false prophets. [10] (b) What was the most serious danger faced by the Islamic state
during Abu Bakr’s caliphate? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON19/22
22. (a) Outline the reasons for the unrest against ‘Uthman and write an account of the rebellion in Madina
that led to his martyrdom. [10] (b) ‘Umar and ‘Uthman stood by what they believed to be just and were
martyred for the position they took. What lessons can be learnt from their martyrdom? Give reasons for
your answer. [4] MJ19/21
23. (a) Mu‘awiya was opposed to ‘Ali’s caliphate. Give reasons for his opposition and write an account of
the Battle of Siffin which resulted from this opposition. [10] (b) In your opinion what was the most
serious consequence of the outcome of this battle? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ19/22
24. (a) How did the arbitration following the Battle of Siffin lead to the emergence of the Kharijites? [10]
(b) ‘The Kharijites were the main reason for ‘Ali not winning the Battle of Siffin’. Do you agree or
disagree? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] ON18/21
25. (a) Choose any two caliphs from the three given below and say how and why they were martyred: •
‘Umar; • ‘Uthman; and • ‘Ali. [10] (b) In your opinion what lesson(s) can be learnt by the martyrdom of
‘Umar? [4] ON18/22
26. (a) Write an account of the campaign led by Abu Bakr against the tribes refusing to pay zakat. [10] (b)
How important in your view was the campaign against the tribes refusing to pay zakat? [4] ON18/22
27. (a) Write a detailed account of Abu Bakr’s achievements as Caliph. [10] (b) What was the significance
of his actions in dealing firmly with the apostate tribes? [4] MJ18/21
28. (a) Write a detailed account of two battles under the caliphate of ‘Umar. [10] (b) Give reasons for why
you have selected the two battles in Part (a) as being the most important. [4] MJ18/22
29. (a) Outline the reasons why the caliphs Abu Bakr and ‘Uthman thought it necessary to compile the
Qur’an and describe how they went about completing this task. [10] (b) In your opinion, how important
was it to have a compiled copy of the Qur’an and what could have been the dangers of not having one?
[4] ON17/21
30. (a) Write a detailed account about the election and administration of Abu Bakr. [10] (b) In your opinion,
what was the greatest service performed by Abu Bakr during his caliphate? Give reasons for your
choice. [4] ON17/22
31. (a) Outline the characteristics of the caliphates of all four Rightly Guided Caliphs which make them an
example of leadership for Muslim rulers. [10] (b) In your opinion, which characteristic of the rules of
the caliphs, if adopted by the present day rulers, would improve the lives of ordinary people in the
countries they live in? [4] ON17/22
32. (a) Write about the following events that took place during the caliphate of ‘Ali: • the battle of Siffin; •
the emergence of Kharijites; and • the arbitration after Siffin. [10] (b) What in your opinion was the
most serious consequence of the outcome of the arbitration during the rest of ‘Ali’s reign? [4] MJ17/21
33. (a) ‘Umar made several administrative reforms during his ten year caliphate. Write an account of at least
five of them and say how these reforms helped make his rule so admirable. [10] (b) Which, in your
opinion, was Umar's greatest quality as caliph? Give reasons for your choice. [4] MJ17/22
34. (a) Give an account of: (i) the election of the caliph ‘Uthman, and (ii) the compilation of the Qur’an that
took place during his caliphate. [10] (b) Three of the four Rightly Guided Caliphs were martyred for the
 decisions they made. Can Muslim leaders today learn anything from this? Give reasons for your answer.
[4] ON16/21
35. (a) Write in detail about the policy followed by ‘Uthman as caliph in expanding and maintaining the
state. [10] (b) How justified were the criticisms against ‘Uthman for burning the copies of the Qur’an?
Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON16/22
36. (a) The conquest of Persia was one of ‘Umar’s great achievements. Write an account of any two battles
fought with the Persians during his caliphate. [10] (b) Say which in your opinion was the most
significant of the battles fought under ‘Umar against the Persians and why. [4] MJ16/21
37. (a) Write a detailed account of the battle of Yamama, and of the compilation of the Qur’an during the
caliphate of Abu Bakr. [10] (b) The Prophet called Abu Bakr ‘al-Siddiq’ (Testifier of the Truth). How
did Abu Bakr live up to his title during his caliphate? [4] MJ16/22
38. (a) Write an account of the events that resulted from the opposition of Talha and Zubayr to ‘Ali. [10] (b)
Explain why you think Mu’awiya refused to step down from the governorship of Syria at ‘Ali’s request.
[4] MJ16/22 (Question 5)
39. (a) ‘Ali’s policy of changing the governors appointed by ‘Uthman led to a lot of problems for him.
Outline: (i) his reasons for making these changes; (ii) the effects of his policy. [10] (b) ‘‘Ali was a strong
caliph.’ Give reasons to agree or disagree with this statement. [4] ON15/21
40. (a) Outline the charges levelled against ‘Uthman by his opponents, and describe the main events of the
revolt against him. [10] (b) What do you think was the most harmful outcome of ‘Uthman’s
assassination? [4] ON15/22 (Question 4)
41. (a) Write about any two major events that took place during the caliphate of Abu Bakr. [10] (b) In your
opinion which of the two events you have written about in Part (a) was the more significant and why?
[4] MJ15/21 (Question 5)
42. (a) ‘ ‘Umar’s caliphate is regarded as a golden era in Islamic history.’ Write an account of how ‘Umar
ruled during his ten year caliphate. [10] (b) What do you think was ‘Umar’s greatest achievement during
his rule? Explain why you think so. [4] MJ15/22
43. (a) What were the causes of the revolt against ‘Uthman and what charges were made against him? [10]
(b) Can Muslims today learn lessons from the martyrdom of ‘Uthman? Give reasons for your answer.
[4] ON14/21
44. (a) Write an account of the Battle of Yamama fought during the caliphate of Abu Bakr, and the Battle of
the Camel fought during the caliphate of ‘Ali. [10] (b) Which of these two battles was, in your opinion,
the more significant? [4] ON14/22
45. (a) Write a detailed account of the four false prophets, and how the caliph Abu Bakr defeated them. [10]
(b) Why did Abu Bakr think it of great importance to defeat the false prophets? [4] MJ14/21
46. (a) Write an account of the Battle of Yarmuk fought during the caliphate of ‘Umar. [10] (b) ‘ ‘Umar’s
unbending attitude led to his assassination.’ What can Muslims learn from this? [4] MJ14/21
47. (a) ‘Ali’s caliphate was riddled with problems. Describe what these problems were. [10] (b) Choose any
one problem you have written about in Part (a) and say why you think it was significant. [4] MJ14/22
48. (a) Write about how the four Rightly Guided Caliphs ruled during their caliphates in accordance with
Islamic values. [10] (b) Choose any one practice of the caliphs from Part (a) and explain how
governments today could act on it. [4] ON13/21
49. (a) What were the consequences of ‘Uthman’s murder? [10] (b) ‘Ibn Muljam’s murder of ‘Ali was
unjustified’. Discuss, giving reasons for your answer. [4] ON13/22
50. (a) Give an account of the following two battles fought during the rule of ‘Umar: • Battle of Qadisiya; •
Battle of Yarmuk [10] (b) Was ‘Umar better as a military leader or as an administrator? [4] ON13/42
(Special Paper for Pakistan)
51. (a) Which important battles were fought during the caliphate of ‘Ali? Write a descriptive account of
each. [10] (b) ‘ ‘Ali was the right ruler for the time’. Briefly discuss this statement. [4] MJ13/02
52. (a) Write about the election of Abu Bakr as caliph and how he dealt with the false prophets during his
reign. [10] (b) Was Abu Bakr a good choice as caliph? Give reasons to support your answer. [4]
ON12/21
53. (a) Write about how the four Rightly Guided Caliphs are role models for leaders today. [10] (b) How
does ‘Umar’s conduct at the surrender of Jerusalem set an example for Muslims? [4] ON12/22
54. (a) Write a descriptive account of the important events that took place in the caliphates of any two of the
four Rightly Guided Caliphs. [10] (b) Briefly state why any one event you have written about in part (a)
was of special significance. [4] MJ12/02
55. (a) Briefly describe the main events of the caliphate of any two of the rightly guided caliphs given
below: (i) Abu Bakr (ii) ‘Umar (iii) ‘Uthman [10] (b) In your opinion what was the most important task
that faced Abu Bakr on becoming caliph? Briefly discuss. [4] ON11/21
56. (a) Briefly describe the main events of the caliphate of any two of the rightly guided caliphs given
below: (i) Abu Bakr (ii) ‘Umar (iii) ‘Uthman [10] (b) In your opinion what was the most important task
that faced Abu Bakr on becoming caliph? Briefly discuss. [4] ON11/22
57. (a) Write a detailed account of the administrative measures put in place by ‘Umar during his caliphate.
[10] (b) ‘ ‘Umar’s caliphate is regarded as the golden period of early Islamic history’. Discuss. [4]
MJ11/02
58. (a) What were the main events of the caliphate of ‘Ali? [10] (b) Why do you think Mu’awiya refused to
accept ‘Ali as caliph? [4] ON10/02
59. (a) What major events took place during the caliphate of ‘Uthman? [10] (b) Explain why ‘Uthman
encountered difficulties in the later years of his caliphate and was assassinated. [4] MJ10/02
60. (a) Describe Abu Bakr’s activities against the false prophets and apostate tribes. [10] (b) Why is Abu
Bakr called the Saviour of Islam? [4] ON09/02
61. (a) Trace the expansion of the Islamic empire under the rule of the caliph ‘Umar. [10] (b) What does the
way he died tell us about his character? [4] MJ09/02
62. (a) Describe the main events of the caliphate of ‘Ali. [10] (b) Explain why Talha and Zubayr opposed
‘Ali. [4] MJ09/02
Beliefs and Practices
1. (a) God sent prophets throughout the ages to guide mankind. Write an account of Muslim belief in
prophets. [10] (b) Why were prophets chosen from within their own communities? Give reasons to
support your answer. [4] ON22/21
2. (a) Write an account of Muslim belief in the oneness of God (tawhid). [10] (b) How do signs from the
natural world strengthen a Muslim’s belief in God? [4] ON22/21
3. (a) Give an account of the ways Muslims can practise jihad peacefully in their daily lives. [10] (b) In
your opinion, how do Muslims benefit from practising jihad in their daily lives? [4] ON22/22
4. (a) Give a descriptive account of Muslim belief in life after death and the Day of Judgement. [10] (b)
How does the belief in life after death affect the daily lives of Muslims? [4] ON22/22
5. (a) Friday (Jum’a) prayer is of special importance to Muslims. Describe: • how worshippers prepare for
this prayer • what its main features are. [10] (b) What are the benefits of praying in a congregation?
Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ22/21
6. (a) Give an account of the significance of the following: • Day of ‘Arafah • Eid-ul Adha. [10] (b) The
Prophet (pbuh) performed pilgrimage (hajj) only once in his lifetime. What do you think this tells
Muslims today? [4] MJ22/22
7. (a) Write an account of Muslim belief in divinely revealed books and their content and purpose. [10] (b)
In your opinion, why is the Qur’an the most important source of Islamic law? Give reasons to support
your answer. [4] ON21/21
8. (a) Describe how and when the two Eids are celebrated and give an account of the Eid prayer. [10] (b)
What is the importance of celebrating religious festivals? Give reasons to support your answer. [4]
ON21/21
9. (a) Write a detailed account about the second Pillar of Islam: prayer (salat). [10] (b) What is the
importance of praying in the mosque for Muslims? [4] ON21/22
10. (a) Fasting in Ramadan benefits Muslims in many ways. Write about the major benefits of fasting in
Ramadan. [10] (b) Explain why the Night of Power (Layla-tul-Qadr) is so important for Muslims. [4]
MJ21/21
11. (a) Give an account of the Pillar of Almsgiving (zakat). [10] (b) In your opinion, what is the most
important benefit of giving zakat? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ21/21
12. (a) Write about the different types of purification before the performance of salat: • wudu • tayammum
and • ghusl. [10] (b) In your opinion, what is the most important benefit of salat in the lives of Muslims?
Give reasons to support your answer. [4] MJ21/22
13. (a) Write about the rituals that take place on the first three days of the annual pilgrimage (hajj). [10] (b)
In your opinion should hajj be performed as many times as possible in a Muslim’s life? Give reasons for
your answer. [4] ON20/21
14. (a) Write a detailed account of belief in: • God as the Supreme Lord and Master of all creation; • God
alone is entitled to worship; and • God is known by His most beautiful names and attributes. [10] (b)
Why is the declaration of faith (Shahadah) at the core of Islam? [4] ON20/22
15. (a) Describe how the fast in the month of Ramadan should be observed by Muslims. [10] (b) In your
opinion what is the most important benefit of fasting in Ramadan? Give reasons for your choice. [4]
ON20/22
16. (a) There are five forms of jihad. Write an account of any three of them. [10] (b) In your opinion, which
is the most important kind of jihad? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ20/21
17. (a) Write about Muslim belief in: • divine books, and • prophets. [10] (b) Why is belief in all prophets
important in Islam? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ20/22
18. (a) How do Muslims prepare themselves for Friday (Jum’a) prayers and what are the special features of
this prayer? [10] (b) In your opinion, what are the benefits of praying in a mosque? Give reasons for
your answer. [4] MJ20/22
19. (a) Describe any three of the following elements of pilgrimage (hajj): • ihram (garment worn) • sa’i
(running between the hills of Safa and Marwa) • rami (stoning the Jamarat), and • qurbani (sacrifice).
[10] (b) Why do you think pilgrims strive so hard to touch the Black Stone (Hajr al Aswad)? [4]
ON19/21
20. (a) Write about the following: • the conditions that should be met before Muslims start prayer (salat),
and • the importance of prayer (salat) in the life of Muslims. [10] (b) Why is private prayer (du’a) given
so much importance by Muslims? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON19/22
21. (a) Write an account of alms-giving (zakat) and say who is liable to pay it and who it can be paid to.
[10] (b) What is the importance of zakat in Muslim society? [4] ON19/22
22. (a) Write about the following: • The benefits of private prayer (du’a) in a Muslim’s life. • The times
when God is thought most likely to accept du’a. [10] (b) How does du’a bring a believer closer to God?
[4] MJ19/21
23. (a) Describe how Muslims observe the fast of Ramadan and how this month should be spent. [10] (b)
What is the purpose of fasting during the month of Ramadan? [4] MJ19/21
24. (a) Islamic teachings revolve around six main Articles of Faith. Write about the following two: • belief
in God, and • belief in angels. [10] (b) Why is the belief in angels important for Muslims? [4] MJ19/22
25. (a) ‘Prophets played a central part in conveying God’s message to humanity.’ Write an account of
Muslim belief in prophets. [10] (b) Why do you think God gave miracles to his chosen prophets? [4]
MJ19/22
26. (a) According to Muslim belief what part do angels play in the everyday lives of human beings? [10] (b)
What in your opinion is the primary link between angels and prophets in Islam? [4] ON18/21
27. (a) In what circumstances are Muslims obliged to engage in; • armed fighting (jihad bis-saif) and; • what
rules and limitations apply to this jihad? [10] (b) What do you understand by the term jihad? [4]
ON18/21
28. (a) Write a detailed account of the following: • ihram; • tawaf; and • sa’i [10] (b) What is the
significance of the Black Stone (Hajr al Aswad ) to Muslims? [4] ON18/22
29. (a) List the Six Articles of Faith and give an account of what any two of them teach. [10] (b) What, in
your opinion, is the importance of prophets being sent to humanity? [4] MJ18/21
30. (a) Write about the moral, social and economic benefits of a Muslim fasting. [10] (b) What, in your
opinion, is the greatest reward of fasting? Support your answer by giving reasons for your choice. [4]
MJ18/21
31. (a) Write in detail about Muslim belief in Life after Death and the Day of Judgement. [10] (b) How does
belief in life after death affect the life of a Muslim? [4] MJ18/22
32. (a) ‘There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger.’ Write about the significance of the
shahada to a Muslim. [10] (b) Why is the second Pillar of Islam prayer (salat) so important in a
Muslim’s life? [4] MJ18/22
33. (a) Outline the various kinds of circumambulations (tawaf) around the Ka’ba required during the annual
pilgrimage (hajj) and describe the conditions of performing them. [10] (b) Why in your opinion is it
desirable that the pilgrims should visit Madina after the performance of hajj or umra? [4] ON17/21
34. (a) Write an account about the relationship between belief in God’s divine decree and human
responsibility. [10] (b) How does this belief in God’s divine decree affect the day-to-day life of
Muslims? [4] ON17/21
35. (a) Prayers (salat), whether obligatory or voluntary, require preparation. Write an account of how a
Muslim prepares for it. [10] (b) Invocation (dua) is highly recommended immediately after the
obligatory prayer. Why do you think this is so? [4] ON17/22
36. (a) Belief in the oneness of God (tawhid) is a fundamental aspect of faith. State how tawhid benefits
Muslims in their everyday life. [10] (b) Give reasons to support the statement that without tawhid there
is no faith. [4] MJ17/21
37. (a) Alms-giving (zakat) is an act of worship which benefits the community of Muslims. Write in detail
about its benefits to the giver, the receiver and to society as a whole. [10] (b) Abu Bakr fought against
those who refused to pay zakat during his caliphate. In your view what is the significance of this action?
[4] MJ17/21
38. (a) Associating partners (shirk) is opposed to believing in the oneness of God (tawhid) and can be
divided into three main categories. Write about each category. [10] (b) Does belief in angels make a
Muslim’s faith stronger? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ17/22
39. (a) Write about the preparations made for the two ’Id prayers and say how they are performed. [10] (b)
What in your opinion is the importance of celebrating the two ’Ids? [4] MJ17/22
40. (a) What are the benefits to individuals and the community of fasting in the month of Ramadan? [10] (b)
Are ‘Id al-Fitr and ‘Id al-Adha more than just celebrations? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON16/21
41. (a) Write an account of the difference in meaning between: (i) jihad of the self, (ii) jihad of the tongue,
and (iii) jihad of the sword. [10] (b) In your opinion, what is the importance of following the rules of
jihad in modern times? [4] ON16/21
42. (a) Belief in all the prophets is one of the articles of faith in Islam. Write about this Muslim belief in
detail. [10] (b) How is the message brought by these prophets important for Muslims today? [4]
ON16/22
43. (a) Describe the particular features of Friday congregational prayers (Jum’a) and the main features of
the Friday sermon. [10] (b) Explain how this event upholds the unity of the Muslim community. [4]
ON16/22
44. (a) (i) Outline the main teachings in the Qur’an and Prophetic Hadiths about prayer (salat) as the
foundation of Islam. (ii) Describe how Muslims prepare themselves for prayer. [10] (b) Why should
meeting for congregational prayers be more advantageous than performing prayer alone? [4] MJ16/21
45. (a) Muslims believe that God alone is Lord, that He alone should be worshipped and that His names and
attributes are unique to Him. Outline Muslim beliefs in the oneness of God. [10] (b) Why has God
repeatedly warned Muslims against committing shirk? [4] MJ16/21
46. (a) ‘And complete the hajj or umrah in the service of God’ (al-Baqarah 2:196). What observances does a
pilgrim complete in the performance of umrah and how is umrah different to hajj? [10] (b) Explain how
the outward actions performed during umrah improve a pilgrim’s inner spirituality. [4] MJ16/22
47. (a) Write an account of the benefits that result from the payment of charity (zakat ), and state to whom it
should and should not be paid. [10] (b) In your opinion, what is the greatest benefit for the giver of zakat
? Give reasons to support your answer. [4] ON15/21
48. (a) Belief in prophets and the revealed books is essential to Islam. Write an account of these two articles
of faith. [10] (b) The Qur’an describes itself as a confirmation of earlier revelations. Does the Qur’an
differ in any significant way from earlier revealed books? [4] ON15/21
49. (a) Describe the particular features of congregational prayers, both daily and on Fridays (Jum’a prayers).
[10] (b) In your opinion why are congregational prayers considered to be beneficial to Muslims? [4]
ON15/22 (Question 3)
50. (a) Describe the meaning of the term jihad and say how Muslims can practise jihad in their everyday
lives. [10] (b) Why do you think jihad of the self (jihad bil-nafs) is greater than armed jihad (jihad
bis-saif )? [4] ON15/22
51. (a) Give an account of the conditions required for ablution (wudu) and the method of performing it. [10]
(b) Why is ablution (wudu) given so much importance in your view? [4] MJ15/21
52. (a) What acts do pilgrims (hajjis) perform on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijja and how does the rest of the
Muslim community (umma) celebrate this day? [10] (b) What in your opinion are Muslims reminding
themselves of when they celebrate Eid al-Adha? [4] MJ15/21
53. (a) What do Muslims believe about the Day of Resurrection and Judgment? [10] (b) How does this
belief affect the daily living of Muslims? [4] MJ15/22
54. (a) Write about the practice of fasting in Ramadan and the moral benefits that a Muslim gains from
fasting in this month. [10] (b) How do you think observing the Pillar of giving alms (zakat ) benefits the
giver? [4] MJ15/22
55. (a) The Prophet said, ‘Between a person and disbelief is discarding prayer.’ What benefits do Muslims
find in regular prayer (salat)? [10] (b) Why do Muslims regard delayed (qada) prayers as a sign of God’s
mercy? Give reasons for your answer. [4] ON14/21
56. (a) What are the moral, spiritual and other benefits of fasting in Ramadan? [10] (b) Choose any one
benefit of the Ramadan fast you have written about in Part (a) and say why you think it is most useful.
[4] ON14/21
57. (a) ‘Pilgrimage to the House is a duty people owe to Allah, those who can afford the journey.’ (Al
‘Imran 3:97) (i) For whom is the annual pilgrimage (hajj ) compulsory, and which Muslims are exempt
from it? (ii) What things are forbidden to pilgrims while in the state of ihram ? [10] (b) Some Muslims
are exempt from performing the annual pilgrimage (hajj ). Why do you think this is so? [4] ON14/22
58. (a) Name the revealed books mentioned in the Qur’an, giving the names of the messengers they were
revealed to and the message they contained. [10] (b) All the revealed books were sent by God. What in
your opinion makes the Qur’an unique? [4] ON14/22
59. (a) Write about how the pillars of Islam help Muslims to improve their communal relationships and
social responsibilities. [10] (b) Why is it beneficial for Muslims to pray salat five times a day? [4]
MJ14/21
60. (a) How do Muslim individuals and the Muslim community benefit from the annual pilgrimage (hajj )?
[10] (b) How does the talbiya sum up the relationship between the pilgrim (hajji ) and God? [4]
MJ14/22
61. (a) Write an account of: (i) The Prophet’s teachings about armed warfare (jihad ). (ii) Under what
circumstances is jihad thought to be compulsory? [10] (b) ‘The Prophet’s teachings about armed warfare
(jihad ) are not relevant today.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. [4] MJ14/22
62. (a) Outline the practice of almsgiving (zakat ) in Islam. [10] (b) Who do you think benefits more from
the payment of zakat and why, the giver or the receiver? [4] ON13/21
63. (a) Write a description of the Muslim teachings about jihad. [10] (b) Why is greater jihad considered the
more important? [4] ON13/21
64. (a) Give an account of Muslim belief in prophets and the messages they preached. [10] (b) How are
these prophets and their messages important for Muslims? [4] ON13/22
65. (a) How are individuals and the community benefited by almsgiving (zakat )? [10] (b) Why are Muslims
encouraged to pay sadaqah during Eid-al-Fitr ? [4] ON13/22
66. (a) Outline the main observances of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj ). [10] (b) How does Hajj encourage a
sense of equality amongst Muslims? [4] ON13/42 (Special Paper for Pakistan)
67. (a) Describe how and why Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. [10] (b) How do the two Eids
bring the Muslim community together? [4] ON13/42 (Special Paper for Pakistan)
68. (a) Outline the Muslim teaching about belief in the oneness of God (tawhid). [10] (b) Why is associating
partners with God (shirk) regarded as a great sin? [4] MJ13/02
69. (a) How do the Pillars of prayer (salat ) and fasting (sawm) bring Muslims closer to both God and other
people? [10] (b) Briefly reflect upon the importance of any one of the remaining three Pillars in the life
of a Muslim. [4] MJ13/02
70. (a) Give an account of Muslim belief in the following: (i) angels; and (ii) prophets. [10] (b) Explain the
importance of the Day of Judgment in Muslim belief. [4] ON12/21
71. (a) Describe the benefits of zakat for the Muslim community. [10] (b) How might fasting and zakat
bring Muslims closer to God? [4] ON12/21
72. (a) ‘There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.’ Describe the Muslim beliefs
summarised by the declaration of faith (shahada). [10] (b) Explain how the declaration of faith
(shahada) is acted upon through the remaining four pillars of Islam. [4] ON12/22
73. (a) What is the purpose of prayers in congregation? [10] (b) Explain why Muslims believe that personal
prayer (du’a) is important? [4] ON12/22
74. (a) Give a detailed account of how Muslims prepare for prayer. [10] (b) ‘A mosque is a focal point in
the lives of Muslims.’ Discuss. [4] MJ12/02
75. (a) Outline the features of the Ramadan fast, and identify which Muslims are exempt from fasting
during this month. [10] (b) What advantages does the fast of Ramadan bring to the Muslim community?
[4] MJ12/02
76. (a) Give descriptions of the way in which fasting and almsgiving are carried out among Muslims. [10]
(b) Show how these two pillars keep the Islamic community together. [4] ON11/21
77. (a) Give a full account of the Muslim belief in prophets. [10] (b) Briefly explain why Allah revealed
different books from time to time. [4] ON11/21
78. (a) Give descriptions of the way in which fasting and almsgiving are carried out among Muslims. [10]
(b) Show how these two pillars keep the Islamic community together. [4] ON11/22
79. (a) Give a full account of the Muslim belief in prophets. [10] (b) Briefly explain why Allah revealed
different books from time to time. [4] ON11/22
80. (a) What does the statement ‘There is no ability or power except through Allah’ tell you about Muslim
belief in Allah’s predestination and decree? [10] (b) To what extent does this belief affect the daily
living of Muslims? [4] MJ11/02
81. (a) What beliefs and practices are involved in: (i) stoning the Jamarat (ii) performing sa’y (iii)
assembling at Arafat [10] (b) Explain the main differences between hajj and umrah. [4] MJ11/02
82. (a) What are the daily observances of the Ramadan fast? [10] (b) Explain why the Ramadan fast is
important to Muslims. [4] ON10/02
83. (a) Give a descriptive account of the Muslim belief in revealed books. [10] (b) Discuss the importance
of Jibreel in comparison to other angels. [4] ON10/02
84. (a) What are Muslim beliefs about angels? [10] (b) Why is the belief in resurrection important to
Muslims in their daily living? [4] MJ10/02
85. (a) What are the conditions of prayer (salat) that must be fulfilled before performing them? [10] (b)
Explain the importance of mosques in Muslim communities. [4] MJ10/02
86. (a) Describe the particular features of congregational prayers on Fridays (jum‘a). [10] (b) Why do
Muslims regard these prayers as important? [4] ON09/02
87. (a) Describe the main events of the annual pilgrimage (hajj). [10] (b) Explain the significance of the
prophet Abraham in the observances of the pilgrimage. [4] ON09/02
88. (a) Write about Muslim beliefs in prophets. [10] (b) Explain how this belief influences the daily living
of a Muslim. [4] MJ09/02