1 (a) Describe the economic system used in Mecca during Pre-Islamic times. [4] (b) Describe the treatment of slaves, women and infant girls in Pre-Islamic Arabia. [10] (c) ‘Khadija’s moral support for the mission of the Prophet (pbuh) was significant.’ Discuss this statement and show that you have thought about different points of view. [6] [Total: 20]

1(a) Describe the economic system used in Mecca during Pre-Islamic times. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information: • There was barter (trading) of goods and animals. • Caravans carrying goods on trade routes to Syria, Persia, etc. • Financial systems such as banking were developed. • Money lending for interest had also become part of the economic system. • A system of taxation was developed, for example, the taxing of merchants on trade routes and pilgrims visiting the Ka’ba. • Trading of slaves • There were three markets – rich, common and slave. One mark for a simple statement and a further three marks for other points or development. 4 1(b) Describe the treatment of slaves, women and infant girls in Pre-Islamic Arabia. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 1 Knowledge and understanding. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information: Slavery was a common practice. Slaves were bought and sold in the markets. The owner had the right of life and death over his slaves. The slaves could be treated cruelly and were regarded as goods/possessions rather than as human beings. Before the advent of Islam, women occupied a lowly/vulnerable place in society. They could be inherited like property or animals. Women were regarded as chattels (possessions). They had no rights and no social standing. A man could marry as many women as he liked and could divorce them without their consent. Bartering and exchanging women/slaves, using them as wagers in gambling and prostitution were common vices. Widows were amongst the most vulnerable and poorest members of society. Female infanticide was prevalent. The birth of a daughter was regarded as a matter of shame and boys were preferred. Female children were murdered because their parents feared the poverty that would come from raising them. 10 1(c) ‘Khadija’s moral support for the mission of the Prophet (pbuh) was significant.’ Discuss this statement and show that you have thought about different points of view. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 2 Evaluation. Responses might consider the following and/or other relevant information: From the beginning, Khadija recognised Muhammad’s qualities of truthfulness and trustworthiness. After the revelation, when he was trembling and afraid, she comforted him and reassured him that he was a good man. Her action in taking him to her cousin Waraqah ibn Nawfal confirmed for Muhammad (pbuh) that he was a chosen prophet. Her unwavering faith in Muhammad (pbuh) meant that she was the first person to accept Islam. The Prophet (pbuh) said “She believed in me when no one else did; she accepted Islam when people rejected me; and she helped and comforted me when there was no one else to lend me a helping hand.” Her support throughout the persecutions in Mecca and at the time of the boycott and her willingness to stand by the Prophet (pbuh) were of paramount importance. It might also be argued that other factors such as the financial support of a wealthy woman helped him in the beginning and throughout their life in Mecca. This is mentioned in the Qur’an. It enabled Muhammad (pbuh) to devote his time to preaching the message of Islam and helped at the time of the boycott. Also, she was the mother of all his children, except for Ibrahim. 6 (a) To earn marks, you need to describe the economic system in Pre-Islamic Mecca by stating at least one feature, and then providing three more distinct points or developing an initial point further. (b) To earn marks, you need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the treatment of slaves, women, and infant girls in Pre-Islamic Arabia, providing detailed descriptions for each category. (c) To earn marks, you need to discuss the significance of Khadija's moral support for the Prophet's mission, presenting different perspectives or arguments on the statement.

2 (a) Give four reasons why the young Muhammad (pbuh) was cared for by Halima. [4] (b) What aspects of the character of Muhammad (pbuh) signified that he might be a future prophet? [10] (c) ‘Muhammad (pbuh) was well supported in his childhood.’ Discuss this statement and show that you have thought about different points of view. [6] [Total: 20] Section B: Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

2(a) Give four reasons why the young Muhammad (pbuh) was cared for by Halima. Responses might include four of the following and/or other relevant information: • Muhammad’s father Abdullah died six months before his birth. • His mother was Amina bint Wahab, and she entrusted the care of Muhammad (pbuh) from a very young age to his foster mother, Halima Sa’diyah. • This was the custom of the noble Quraish tribe. • Halima was a Bedouin and belonged to a tribe known for the pure Arabic dialect they spoke. • Muhammad (pbuh) stayed with Halima in the desert, to learn the pure Arabic, • to become robust and well-mannered in the atmosphere of the desert, • to be brought up away from the hustle and bustle of city life. One mark for each response. 4 2(b) What aspects of the character of Muhammad (pbuh) signified that he might be a future prophet? Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 1 Knowledge and Understanding. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information: Prophets were chosen because of their piety and good character. As a boy Muhammad (pbuh) was a shepherd and he developed a contemplative nature at a young age and never took part in the frivolous activities of other youths. He was an orphan and understood the suffering of orphans, widows and destitute in society and in later life taught about the need to protect their rights. He had a good marriage with Khadija, but he saw how men treated women in general which made him concerned for their welfare. The cruelty and suffering he observed during the war (Harb al Fijar) made him detest violence and convinced him of the need for peaceful solutions to conflict. He always remembered the alliance made to protect the vulnerable, e.g. Hiful Fudul, in which he took part. He became aware of the injustice of wars and the need to protect the rights of the oppressed. He was aware of the vices of Meccan society by which he was surrounded and never took part. Prophets never attended festivals or places where idolatry was celebrated/practised. His dealings with others earned him the titles of the Truthful (as-Sadiq) and the Trustworthy (al-Amin). Although surrounded by pagan idol worshippers, he was aware of the beliefs of the hanifs (his grandfather had been one) and those who followed the religion of Abraham. After marriage to Khadija, he often went into the hills to spend time in solitude and meditation, searching for spiritual guidance. Other aspects of his character could be some of the signs that showed he was a future prophet such as the washing of his heart when he was a young boy, the blessings that came to Halima when he went to live with her, and the signs seen by Bahira when he met the Prophet (pbuh) on a trade journey. 10 2(c) ‘Muhammad (pbuh) was well supported in his childhood.’ Discuss this statement and show that you have thought about different points of view. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 2 Evaluation. Responses might consider the following and/or other relevant information: Responses might argue that despite the misfortune of being an orphan, in a society where orphans had no rights, the care Muhammad (pbuh) received from Halima, his grandfather (who was a leader of the Quraish) and his uncle Abu Talib, as his guardians ensured he had a stable, comfortable upbringing. Candidates might recall that, at several times in his life, God reminds Muhammad (pbuh) that He (God) is responsible for providing the means for his care and, eventually, financial independence, through the marriage to Khadijah. So, another view might be that Muhammad (pbuh) received human love and support but that all actions are pre-ordained by God. 6 (a) To earn marks, students must provide four distinct reasons why Muhammad (pbuh) was cared for by Halima, such as his father's death, his mother entrusting him, the custom of the Quraish, or the benefits of a desert upbringing. (b) Students need to describe specific character traits of Muhammad (pbuh) that indicated his future prophethood, such as his piety, contemplative nature, or never participating in certain activities. (c) Students must discuss the support Muhammad (pbuh) received during his childhood and present different perspectives on this support to earn marks.

2 (a) Give four features of nomadic life in Pre-Islamic Arabia. [4] (b) Give an account of the importance of the Ka’ba in Mecca in Pre-Islamic Arabia. [10] (c) In what ways were the actions of Muhammad (pbuh) in the dispute of replacing the black stone an example for Muslims today? Give reasons to support your answer. [6] [Total: 20] Section B: Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

2(a) Give four features of nomadic life in Pre-Islamic Arabia. Responses might include four of the following and/or other relevant information. • They wandered from oasis to oasis across the desert, looking after animals. • Water and pasture were their main priorities. • They were organised into tribes and clans. • The authority of the Shayk was predominant. • Feuding was common. • Bartering for animals was the only form of trade. • Raiding of animals and crops was common. • There were occasional visits to fairs/towns to visit idols. • There was a custom of wet-nursing. One mark for each response. 4 2(b) Give an account of the importance of the Ka’ba in Mecca in Pre-Islamic Arabia. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 1 Knowledge and Understanding. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information: The Ka’ba was believed to have been built by the first man, Adam (AS). Later, God directed Ibrahim (AS) and his son, Ishmael to rebuild it. The Qur’an says that the Ka’ba was the first house of worship appointed for man by God. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded by God to proclaim pilgrimage to the House of God. Later it became a sanctuary of Allah with 360 idols around it. Pilgrims came from all over Arabia to worship there and circumambulate around the Ka’ba. Violence was forbidden within a twenty-mile radius of the Ka’ba. The sanctity of the Ka’ba and the pilgrimage were essential to the survival and wealth of the Quraish who controlled Mecca. The town of Mecca had grown up around the Ka’ba and the nearby water supply of Zamzam. Taxes were paid by pilgrims, which provided a source of income. Mecca was controlled by the Quraish. The chiefs of the Quraish (like Abdul Muttalib, the Prophet’s grandfather) were traditionally honoured as the custodians of the Ka’ba. The Ka’ba was a symbol of glory and power and provided spiritual benefit. The sanctity of the Ka’ba and pilgrimage to Mecca was essential to the survival of the Quraish who made their living from taxes paid by pilgrims. 10 2(c) In what ways were the actions of Muhammad (pbuh) in the dispute of replacing the black stone an example for Muslims today? Give reasons to support your answer. Mark according to level descriptors for Assessment Objective 2 Evaluation. Responses might consider the following and/or other relevant information: The diplomatic skills that Muhammad (pbuh) demonstrated and the example for Muslims today might be shown as follows: He listened carefully to the problem and the reason for the dispute and agreed to arbitrate. This is an example that Muslims should be willing to listen to and advise others and not be afraid of making decisions about right and wrong actions, or about helping to find a way out of a dispute. The clan/tribal leaders shared the honour between them of lifting the cloak and carrying the black stone to its designated place. This is an example to Muslims that they should be aware of the principles and sensitivities of others and respect them/respect one another. Muhammad (pbuh) placed the stone himself - an example of taking responsibility for one’s own decisions and actions. By doing this he demonstrated the need for Muslims to try to correctly judge a situation according to its possible consequences. This way disputes can be peacefully settled, and bloodshed might be avoided. 6 (a) To earn marks, you need to list four distinct features of nomadic life in Pre-Islamic Arabia. (b) To earn marks, you need to provide a detailed account of the Ka'ba's importance in Pre-Islamic Mecca, demonstrating strong knowledge and understanding. (c) To earn marks, you need to explain how the Prophet Muhammad's actions in the Black Stone dispute serve as an example for Muslims today, providing reasons to support your answer.

3 (a) Explain why Abu Bakr needed to rescue Bilal. [4] (b) Describe the relationship between Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr during the Prophet’s lifetime. [10] (c) ‘The support of the early Muslims was important to the mission of Muhammad (pbuh) in Mecca.’ Discuss this statement and show that you have thought about different points of view. [6] [Total: 20]

3(a) Explain why Abu Bakr needed to rescue Bilal. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information: • Bilal was a slave, so he had no social standing. • The early Muslims who were vulnerable were persecuted and tortured. • Bilal was tied down on the burning sand of the desert with a heavy stone crushing his chest. • He remained steadfast to Islam and only cried out ‘Allah! the One, Allah! the One. • Bilal was ready to sacrifice his life for his faith. • Abu Bakr bought Bilal’s freedom • and rescued him from a cruel master. One mark for a simple statement, three further marks for elaboration. 4 3(b) Describe the relationship between Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr during the Prophet’s lifetime. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 1 Knowledge and Understanding. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information: Abu Bakr As Siddiq was born in 573 AD in Mecca. He was two years younger than the Prophet (pbuh). He belonged to a respectable and noble family of the Banu Tamim; a clan of the Quraish tribe. He was a lifelong friend and neighbour of the Prophet (pbuh) and accompanied Muhammad (pbuh) on some of his trade missions. He was the first adult free man to believe in Muhammad’s mission. The Prophet (pbuh) once spoke about this and said, “when I invited people towards Allah everybody thought it over and hesitated except for Abu Bakr, he accepted my call and did not hesitate for even a moment.’ After his conversion to Islam, he received the name as-Sadiq (The Truthful). When the Prophet (pbuh) narrated the experience of the Mi’raj, Abu Bakr immediately believed him. Abu Bakr brought many influential converts to Islam such as ‘Uthman, Talha, Zubair and other prominent Quraish. He was generous and used to help the poor and needy and freed a number of slaves who has accepted Islam. When Muhammad (pbuh) decided to migrate to Medina, Abu Bakr was his only companion and hid with the Prophet (pbuh) in the Cave of Thaur for three days. This is mentioned in the Qur’an. He fought all the battles with the Prophet (pbuh). On the Tabuk expedition he contributed all he possessed and when asked by the Prophet (pbuh) what he had left for his family Abu Bakr replied, ‘I have left them Allah and his Prophet’. To further increase the close connection between them, the Prophet (pbuh) married Abu Bakr’s daughter Aisha. The Prophet (pbuh) appointed Abu Bakr as the first Amir-al Hajj when it first became obligatory and when the Prophet (pbuh) became ill and was nearing death he appointed Abu Bakr to lead the prayers. When the Prophet (pbuh) died Abu Bakr addressed those who were grieving and said ‘O People if any one of you worshipped Muhammad (pbuh) he should bear in mind that Muhammad (pbuh) is dead. But those who worship Allah should know that he is alive and will never die.’ 10 3(c) ‘The support of the early Muslims was important to the mission of Muhammad (pbuh) in Mecca.’ Discuss this statement and show that you have thought about different points of view. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 2 Evaluation. Responses might consider some of the following and/or other relevant information: In agreement with the statement, candidates might point out that in the early days of preaching Islam, the Prophet (pbuh) suffered rejection by his family and his clan and persecution by the leaders of the Quraish. The dedication and bravery of the first followers could certainly be said to have contributed to the success of the Prophet’s mission. The early followers too suffered persecution, cruelty, and torture. In the beginning the Muslims were only a small band of mainly poor people and slaves, but gradually, as more influential Quraish figures joined the Prophet (pbuh) and converted to Islam, the Muslims became bolder, and morale became stronger. The support of major figures such as ‘Uthman, Hamza and ‘Umar certainly contributed to the growing success of Islam. However, on balance, it might also be argued that alongside this, God protected and cared for his messenger and the early converts. The success of the mission was dependent on God. 6 (a) To earn marks, students must state that Bilal was a persecuted slave and then elaborate on the specific tortures he endured, his steadfastness, and Abu Bakr's action of buying his freedom. (b) Students need to describe the close and lifelong relationship between Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr, including details about their friendship, shared experiences like trade journeys, and Abu Bakr's unwavering support. (c) Students must discuss the importance of early Muslim support for Muhammad's mission in Mecca and present different points of view on this topic.

3 (a) Describe the relationship between Muhammad (pbuh) and ʿAli. [4] (b) Give an account of ʿAli’s services to Islam during the Prophet’s lifetime. [10] (c) What benefits are there for society today in following the example of brotherhood that Muhammad (pbuh) created in Medina? [6] [Total: 20]

3(a) Describe the relationship between Muhammad (pbuh) and ‘Ali. Responses might include the following and/or other relevant information. • They were cousins. ‘Ali was the son of Abu Talib, the uncle and guardian of Muhammad (pbuh). • ‘Ali was much younger than Muhammad (pbuh), he was born about thirty years later. • Muhammad (pbuh) brought up ‘Ali as his own son. • Their relationship was very close, ‘Ali married the Prophet’s daughter, Fatima. • He was the father of the Prophet’s grandsons Hassan and Hussein. • ‘Ali was one of the first converts. • He stood up and supported the Prophet (pbuh) when he first preached his message publicly. • ‘Ali learnt from being in the Prophet’s company. One mark for each response. 4 3(b) Give an account of ‘Ali’s services to Islam during the Prophet’s lifetime. Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 1 Knowledge and Understanding. Responses might include some of the following and/or other relevant information: ‘Ali was the second person to accept Islam when he was eleven years old. He stood up and spoke out in support of Muhammad (pbuh). He was in the Prophet’s household during all the time of the persecutions and the boycott. At the time of the migration, the Prophet (pbuh) left him in his bed (to act as a decoy and return the possessions of the Meccans) when Muhammad (pbuh) fled with Abu Bakr to begin the journey to Medina. ‘Ali later joined the two at Quba and helped to build the first mosque there. At the time of establishing brotherhood between the Ansar and Muhajirun in Medina, Muhammad (pbuh) took ‘Ali to be his brother. ‘You are my brother in this world and in the hereafter.’ ‘Ali was a very brave man, he participated in all the battles against the non- believers during the time of the Prophet (pbuh). He was called Asad-ullah (the Lion of Allah). At Khyber he led the force that took the last Jewish stronghold of Qamus. When the Prophet (pbuh) went on the expedition to Tabuk in 9 AH he left ‘Ali in charge of Medina. He was one of the great jurists among the companions and the Prophet (pbuh) appointed him Qadi (judge) of Yemen and some suggest he blessed him with the following prayer, ‘O Allah put truth on his tongue and enlighten his heart with guidance.’ He was one of the original scribes of the Qur’an. During the Prophet’s final illness, ‘Ali attended to him day and night and after his death prepared his body for burial. 10 3(c) What benefits are there for society today in following the example of brotherhood that Muhammad (pbuh) created in Medina? Mark according to the level descriptors for Assessment Objective 2 Evaluation. Responses might consider the following and/or other relevant information: The society that the Prophet (pbuh) created in Medina was classless. Everyone was equal. The Prophet (pbuh) encouraged a collective, co- operative spirit between the Ansar and the Muhajirun when he made them brothers. Today Muslims might learn that unity creates strength in society, and it promotes peace between people. Creating and encouraging ties of brotherhood ensures that the vulnerable in society are provided for, no one eats while his brother is hungry. The status of the poor and disadvantaged will be improved. Creating this kind of unity between people means that there is also tolerance in individual life and in the community and people protect one another from discrimination and persecution. This can extend to every aspect of life and mean that there is freedom of expression and a just society. Some candidates might answer in general terms and others might illustrate their points by giving examples from personal and community life. 6 (a) To earn marks, you need to state four distinct aspects describing the relationship between Muhammad and Ali. (b) To earn marks, you need to provide a detailed account of Ali's services to Islam during the Prophet's lifetime, demonstrating strong knowledge and understanding. (c) To earn marks, you need to explain the benefits for society today of following the example of brotherhood established by Muhammad in Medina, providing reasons to support your answer.

Cambridge O Level Islamic Studies · 2068

O-Level Islamic Studies (2068) Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) past paper questions

Revise O-Level Islamic Studies (2068) — Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) with real Cambridge past-paper questions grouped by topic, each shown with its marking scheme. Working one topic at a time targets exactly the skill each question tests.

38 free questions from 2017–2021, each with its marking scheme. Open the full topical bank to filter by subtopic, paper, and year.