1 Choose any two of the following passages from the Qur’an, and: (a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage [4] (b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. [4] (i) Sura 41.37 37. Among His signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Adore not the sun and the moon, but adore Allah, who created them, if it is Him you wish to serve. (ii) Sura 42.4–5 4. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth: and He is most high, most great. 5. The heavens are almost rent asunder from above them, and the angels celebrate the praises of their Lord, and pray for forgiveness for beings on earth: Behold! Verily Allah is He, the oft-forgiving, the most merciful. (iii) Sura 2.21–22 21. O people! Adore your Guardian-Lord, who created you and those who came before you, so that you may have the chance to learn righteousness; 22. Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens; and by it brought forth fruits for your sustenance; then do not set up rivals to Allah, when you know. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …

1(a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage Use the AO1 Marking Grid Sura 41.37 The main themes are: • God creates and controls everything, in this verse specifically the sun and the moon. • The order and cycle of the sun and the moon are God's signs for humankind of His power. • As the Creator only He should be worshipped (tawhid). • It is a negation of paganism – the sun and moon are not to be worshipped. Sura 42.4–5 The main themes are: • God is the owner of everything because He created everything. • Due to His greatness above them, the heavens are almost torn apart. • The angels praise God and pray for forgiveness of humans on earth as part of their duties. • Humans are reliant on God’s mercy as He is the most forgiving, the most merciful. Sura 2.21–22 The main themes are: • God is the Creator of humankind so they should only worship Him. • He also created what is for the benefit of humankind (guidance, fertile earth, shade and water from sky), so they should be grateful to God. • God has not only created but has also made arrangements for the sustenance of His creations. • Humankind should not commit the greatest sin of associating partners/rivals with God, for He is the only Creator and Sustainer. 4 1(b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. Use the AO2 Marking Grid Sura 41.37 • The importance of these verses is that believers should acknowledge and reflect on the fact that created things are not permanent. • They should realise they need to look to one God for their answers, rather than looking to created things for guidance. • They should ponder on His signs, the perfection of His creations and nature in order to strengthen their faith. Sura 42.4–5 • The importance here is that God tells humankind of His power and control over all things so they should remember that they do not have any power in comparison hence be humble. • God is Merciful, even when Muslims have committed wrong actions, so Muslims have someone to turn to in times of need. • As God is merciful to humankind, they in turn should be grateful and also try to be forgiving of others, even if they have been hurt or injured. • Humans should not despair of Him or give up on His mercy – even if they have sinned, they should turn back to Him and He will forgive. • The obedience of angels to God can encourage humans to be obedient to God too. Sura 2.21–22 • The natural world is a comfort for humankind, and so they should look after it. • God provides the world for humankind so humans should be responsible for looking after their environment, which can be done in many ways. • Humans should acknowledge who their sustenance has come from and rely on God for everything as well as be grateful. • Strong belief/reliance on God should make Humans confident and courageous. 4

1 Choose any two of the following passages from the Qur’an, and: (a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage [4] (b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. [4] (i) Sura 99 1. When the earth is shaken to her utmost convulsion, 2. And the earth throws up her burdens, 3. And man cries out: ‘What is the matter with her?’, 4. On that day will she declare her tidings: 5. For that your Lord will have given her inspiration. 6. On that day will men proceed in companies sorted out, to be shown their deeds. 7. Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good see it! 8. And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall see it. (ii) Sura 5.110 Then will Allah say: ‘Jesus son of Mary! Recount my favour to you and to your mother. Behold! I strengthened you with the holy spirit, so that you spoke to the people in childhood and maturity. Behold! I taught you the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel. And behold! You make out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by my leave, and you breathe into it and it becomes a bird by my leave, and you heal those born blind, and the lepers, by my leave. And behold! You bring forth the dead by my leave. And behold! I restrained the Children of Israel from you when you showed them the clear signs, and the unbelievers among them said: ‘This is nothing but evident magic.’ (iii) Sura 2.30–37 30. Behold, your Lord said to the angels: ‘I will create a vicegerent on earth.’ They said: ‘Will You place there one who will make mischief there and shed blood?- whilst we celebrate your praises and glorify your holy (name)?’ He said: ‘I know what you do not know.’ 31. And He taught Adam the names of all things; then He placed them before the angels, and said: ‘Tell me the names of these if you are right.’ 32. They said: ‘Glory to You, of knowledge we have none, save what You have taught us: In truth it is You who are perfect in knowledge and wisdom.’ 33. He said: ‘Adam! Tell them their names.’ When he had told them, Allah said: ‘Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?’ 34. And behold, We said to the angels: ‘Bow down to Adam’. And they bowed down. Not so Iblis: he refused and was haughty: he was of those who reject faith. 35. We said: ‘Adam! You and your wife dwell in the Garden; and eat of the bountiful things in it as you wish. But do not approach this tree, or you will run into harm and transgression.’ 36. Then Satan made them slip from there, and got them out of what they had been in. We said: ‘Go down, with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood, for a time.’ 37. Then Adam learnt from his Lord words of inspiration, and his Lord turned towards him; for He is often-returning, most merciful. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …

1(a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage Use the AO1 Marking Grid Sura 99 The main themes are: • God’s relationship with the created world. • The signs of the Last Day. • The earth will be shaken, destroying what He created - He has the power to give life and death. Everything will be destroyed. • The earth will give testimony to what occurs, from environmental abuse to neglect of resources. • People will be responsible for their actions on earth and given their accounts. • Humans will be accountable to God. • God will be judge and justice will be done. • He will decide rewards and punishments. Sura 5.110 The main themes are: • God’s assistance and guidance to His prophets, in this case Jesus was helped by the holy spirit, the Book and the wisdom, the Law and the Gospel. • God supports Prophets in their mission by giving them miracles. • Jesus did great things but only with God’s permission, “by my leave”, hence real power lies with God. • Prophets face opposition and persecution. In this case Jesus was rejected with claims of magic. Sura 2.30–37 The main themes are: • God’s prophets. • God created Adam, as well as everything else (e.g. angels), and made him a vicegerent (khalifa), which suggests God values humans above angels. • God gives knowledge to who He wants, and He gives the special status of prophethood to whom He wishes. • When Satan misled Adam, God did not leave him or allow any obstacle to prevent him from making Adam His representative on earth, in other words God looks after His Prophets. • Adam was forgiven when he repented, God’s forgiveness and mercy extends to all. 4 1(b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. Use the AO2 Marking Grid Sura 99 • The verses reaffirm Muslim belief in the Day of Judgment. • It creates a sense of accountability, reminding Muslims to stay on the correct path. • Good deeds will be rewarded, encouraging Muslims to do good at all times, e.g. following the Pillars, being honest and helping others. • It keeps them away from unpleasant things, e.g. lying, cheating, gossiping and not obeying God’s commandments. • It helps Muslims understand the temporary nature of the world which stops them being distracted by worldly things, e.g. fashion or money. • Muslims feel comforted by God's justice that no good deed will go unnoticed, or bad deed unpunished. Sura 5.110 • These teachings reaffirm for Muslims the prophethood of Jesus and the power of God. • The teachings show humans are capable of great feats, but it is God who gives permission, strength and assistance for these. For example, the moon landings and space travel. • Muslims should use these as signs of God’s grace and believe in His power to control everything and allow things to happen. • They should therefore remember Him often, by praying, supplicating or doing good deeds to ensure they are counted as believers. Sura 2.30–37 • This gives Muslims a sense of their connection to God as Adam is called the father of humankind and everyone is descended from him. • God made the angels bow to Adam. This showed his elevated status amongst God’s creatures and that of humanity in general. • God granted forgiveness to Adam. This should make humankind believe in God’s mercy and forgiveness and they should repent. • Shows God’s care and direct relationship with every individual. • Makes one realise the importance of knowledge and learning. • Teaches people to stay away from arrogance and pride. 4

1 Choose any two of the following passages from the Qur’an, and: (a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage [4] (b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. [4] (i) Sura 112 1. Say: He is Allah, the one and only; 2. Allah, the eternal, absolute; 3. He does not beget, nor is He begotten; 4. And there is none like Him. (ii) Sura 1 1. In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful. 2. Praise be to Allah, the cherisher and sustainer of the worlds; 3. Most gracious, most merciful; 4. Master of the day of judgement. 5. You we worship, and your aid we seek. 6. Show us the straight way, 7. The way of those to whom You have given your grace, not those who earn your anger, nor those who go astray. (iii) Sura 108 1. To you have We granted abundance. 2. So pray to your Lord and sacrifice. 3. For he who hates you, he will be cut off. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …

1(a) Use the AO1 Marking Grid Sura 112 The main themes are: • this is the main sura revealed to describe tawhid. • Ahad — The Only One, the Unique — the One who was, is, and will ever remain alone. He is indivisible and the essence of unity. • Samad is an important description of God as it encompasses many meanings – power, independence, absolute, etc. • He has no partners or family, does not have anyone to share His authority nor any children. • Nothing or no one can ever be equal to Him in essence in all His beautiful attributes, God is unlike anyone or anything in creation. Sura 1 The main themes are: • His qualities of mercy and forgiveness are highlighted here. • it is God who presides over judgment and controls the worlds. • God gives guidance to those who ask for the straight path. • He is the one to ask for help, and it is He who can grant it for anything. • He is Master of all creation so only He is deserving of worship. • The first few verses establish God as Lord of the Worlds, then mercy is established then guidance is sought. Sura 108 The main themes are: • It was revealed as a consolation to the Prophet (pbuh) and foretold the destruction of his opponents. • God has given the Prophet (pbuh) Kawthar, which has various meanings. • Most common is a river in paradise, but also has the meaning of progeny, guidance in abundance, success and his followers. • God commands His followers to pray to Him. • To show his gratitude the Prophet (pbuh) in particular, and Muslims in general, are expected to worship God and display the spirit of sacrifice, determination and good character. 4 1(b) Briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. Use the AO2 Marking Grid Sura 112 The importance of stressing the Oneness of God is so that people do not take other people or created things as their Lord, so they should not replace God with things like famous people/saints, or place anyone or anything alongside Him. It ensures they know that God does not have family, so they will avoid making the mistake of believing in God having children or a partner, or anyone to share in His authority. It gives them clarity and allows them to develop a relationship with God. This sura is considered one third of the Qur’an because the theme of tawhid is summarised in it and it is said to be one of the suras of protection. Sura 1 This is recited in every prayer. 'No prayer is accepted without Fatiha'. It is a conversation with God and He is the Creator, and God is replying to each verse. Through it humans communicate with God. Muslims use this to ask for guidance (given in the Qur'an and sunna), for mercy and help, even outside the prayer. Submitting to God brings humbleness into lives, and because Muslims are accountable to God they pray to be guided on the straight path. Sura 108 The teachings give an insight into how the relationship between God and the Prophet (pbuh) has lessons for Muslims. Muslims today are that future generation of followers that was given to the Prophet (pbuh), and so this sura gives hope to people in times of need. Future hope is also given with the promise of the Kawthar in paradise. God always intervenes in times of difficulty so Muslims should always remember to look to Him for help and support, and not feel disheartened in times of difficulty, e.g. during illness or oppression. Muslims should remain steadfast despite the difficulties or mockeries that they face. Even prophets were tested and faced hardships but remained steadfast so Muslims should not despair of God’s mercy when facing hardships. 4

1 Choose any two of the following passages from the Qur’an, and: (a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage [4] (b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. [4] (i) Sura 2.255 Allah. There is no god but He, the living, the self-subsisting, eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permits? He knows what is before or after or behind them. Nor shall they compass any of His knowledge except as He wills. His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Most High, the Supreme. (ii) Sura 99 1. When the earth is shaken to her utmost convulsion, 2. And the earth throws up her burdens, 3. And man cries out: ‘What is the matter with her?’, 4. On that day will she declare her tidings: 5. For that your Lord will have given her inspiration. 6. On that day will men proceed in companies sorted out, to be shown their deeds. 7. Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good see it! 8. And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall see it. (iii) Sura 93 1. By the glorious morning light, 2. And by the night when it is still, 3. Your Lord has not forsaken you, nor is He displeased. 4. And truly the Hereafter will be better for you than the present. 5. And soon your Lord will give you so that you will be pleased. 6. Did He not find you an orphan and give you shelter? 7. And He found you wandering, and He gave you guidance. 8. And He found you in need, and made you independent. 9. Therefore, do not treat the orphan with harshness, 10. Nor drive the beggar away; 11. But tell about the bounty of your Lord! … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …

1(a) briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage Use the AO1 Marking Grid (i) Sura 2.255 The main theme is God in Himself: • Oneness of God/Tawhid, God is the Creator/Lord of everything in the heavens and earth. • He is The Ever Living and The Sustainer, The Self-Subsisting hence all creations are dependent on Him, but He is independent. • He does not have human qualities so does not sleep or get tired in what He does. • Everything in the universe is His kingdom and under His power and authority. • His knowledge is limitless, and humans only know what He allows them. • His throne is understood as His majesty, uniqueness, knowledge and having total power. It emphasises how He is the only one who can make decisions about His creation yet is transcendent – completely independent from His creation. • He is the Highest authority. (ii) Sura 99 The main theme God’s relationship with the created world: • The signs of the Last Day, • The earth will be shaken and the inescapable quaking will baffle humans. • Everything will be destroyed as God has the power to destroy His own creation (Al-Mumit “The Destroyer). • The earth will give testimony on what occurred, from environmental abuse to neglect of resources. • People will be responsible for their actions on earth and given their accounts. • God will be the Judge. • Decision about the eternal life will be made by God, only He has the power to do so. • Every little act of goodness or sin will be taken account of by God while complete justice will be done. (iii) Sura 93 The main theme is God’s Messengers: • God helps those who are in distress, prophets, and Muslims. • This sura is directed to the Prophet (pbuh) himself showing how God helped him, in this case with shelter, guidance and independence. • He is always present and with them through the hardships they endure, and He supports them. • God reminds the Prophet (pbuh) of the worthlessness of worldly life and the eternal bounties awaiting him in Akhirah. All prophets preferred afterlife over their earthly abode. • Special instruction for good treatment of the needy and the poor are also given. • Prophet (pbuh) is also asked to show gratitude and gratefulness. 4 1(b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim’s life today. Use the AO2 Marking Grid (i) Sura 2.255 The importance of these themes is that these verses allow Muslims to learn and understand something about God in a way relevant to them. The theme of God’s self-subsistence shows how certain attributes that affect humans do not affect Him, for example, sleep, so they can rely entirely on Him. He has the knowledge and power over all things, and this could make Muslims more cautious of their practices. It can be considered as one of the best passages of the Qur’an, and Muslims often recite it daily for protection. Candidates could say how they use Ayat al-Kursi in their own lives. (ii) Sura 99 The verses reaffirm Muslim belief in the Day of Judgment. It creates a sense of accountability, reminding Muslims to stay on the straight path. Good deeds will be rewarded which encourages Muslims to always do good, for example, following the Pillars or being honest and helping others. It keeps them away from displeasing things like lying, cheating, gossiping and not obeying God’s commandments. It helps Muslims understand the temporary nature of the world which stops them being distracted by worldly things, such as fashion or money. Muslims feel comforted by God's justice that no good deed will go unnoticed, or bad deed will go unpunished. (iii) Sura 93 These themes tell humans not to worry when others oppose or hurt you. A person may think that God has deserted them, or He does not seem to be there when they go through hard times in their lives, but these themes assure them that He is always present and with them. God gave blessings to the Prophet (pbuh), despite people saying that he had been forgotten by God. Muslims should look at their own lives to see their blessings and not think they have been given nothing; they should not constantly want more than what they have. These themes also encourage people to be kind and compassionate to the vulnerable members of the society, particularly orphans and destitute. These themes also create appreciation and gratitude in Muslims. 4

2 (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] … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …

2(a) Give an account of the different ways in which the Prophet (pbuh) received revelation. Use the AO1 Marking Grid Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant information must be credited. Candidates should write about the different ways in which the Prophet (pbuh) received revelation and not focus on the first revelation only. The Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet (pbuh) over a period of 23 years. After the first revelation, in Cave Hira, revelation stopped for a period which caused the Prophet (pbuh) to worry. Once they started again, they came strongly and frequently. There were different ways in which the verses were revealed to the Prophet (pbuh). A few times the Prophet (pbuh) saw the Angel in his original form. For example, on the night journey (Sura Najm), and at the time of the first revelation. Sometimes the Angel Jibril came in the form of a man, and he resembled the Companion Dihya al Kalbi. The revelations also came in the form of dreams, and he would wake up and remember them. The most difficult revelations were when they came as the ringing of a bell. The revelations would weigh down on the Prophet (pbuh) so much so that his camel could not withstand the weight. During one of the revelations it put pressure on Zayd’s thigh when he was sitting next to the Prophet (pbuh). They would cause him to sweat even in the winter and shiver in the summer. Ayesha’s Hadith could be given as reference for this. They were not within his control (Sura 75:16–19), he had no idea when they were coming, and they were safeguarded by God. The Prophet (pbuh) also had direct revelation, when he went on the night journey and ascension. The candidates might also mention how different verses/Suras were revealed according to the need of time and circumstances. 10 2(b) The Qur’an was not revealed all at one time. Why do you think this was important? Use the AO2 Marking Grid Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant information must be credited. It was important because the power and words of the Qur’an weighed heavily on the Prophet (pbuh) so it was better for it to be revealed over time. Also, the way the revelation came was physically demanding for the Prophet (pbuh) and so again it was easier for him if the revelations were spaced out. Another reason was that the new Muslims needed change slowly and so the Qur’an being revealed gradually, allowed them to put actions into practise before new ideas and rules were given. Being revealed over time also meant that questions that arose from the Quraysh or the Muslims were given an answer through new revelation. Gradual revelation also catered for the changing needs and circumstances of the emerging Muslim community. 4

Cambridge O Level Islamiyat · 2058

O-Level Islamiyat (2058) The history and importance of the Qur'an past paper questions

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The history and importance of the Qur'an in O-Level Islamiyat 2058 exams, 2020–2025

Across 2020–2025, The history and importance of the Qur'an accounted for 68 questions worth 802 marks in Cambridge O Level Islamiyat (2058) papers.