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Themes of Quran
M/J 2017(11)
2(a) Choose two from the following passages and write in detail about the various ways in
which God describes in them how He is unique: 6.101–103, 42.4-5, 112, 41.37. [10]
O/N 2013
2 (a) Using passages you have studied, write about the main teachings about God in the
Qur’an. [10]
O/N 2022
2 (a) Write about how God describes Himself so humans can know Him using:
(i) Sura 2.255 (Ayat al–Kursi)
(ii) Sura 112 (Ikhlas) [10]
Answer [Learn and write]:
The passages set for special study which represent the fundamental Quranic theme of ‘God in
Himself’, give us the prefect knowledge about God’s personality, Oneness and attributes. In the first place
these passages shed light on the concept of Tawhid in different ways. It is the first and the main principle of
Islamic faith. It means that Allah is the Supreme Being, Creator, Sustainer and Master of the Universe. The
language and descriptions used are there for humans to understand aspects of the nature of God in ways
that would be understandable and relatable, as the reality is that God is far beyond a human being’s
comprehension.
Surah Baqarah (2:255) also known as the Verse of Throne (Ayat al Kursi) clearly mentions the
concept of Tauhid (Oneness of God), which is the first part of the declaration of faith (Shahada) “Allah, there
is no god but He the Living, the self-subsisting, Eternal.” Surah Anaam (06:101) gives the same concept by
refering to God as the creator of everything that exists.
so He depends on no one, but everyone depends on Him. He is eternal so He was always there and will
exist forever. He does not get tired, nor does he sleep – God is using examples that humans can relate to,
to show how He can never be unaware nor become negligent in His actions. “No slumber can seize him
nor sleep…” Everything is created and owned by Him showing His ultimate control and power. “to Him
belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth.” No one can appeal to God, or intercede, without His
permission. His knowledge is all encompassing, knowing everything in the past present and future. “He
knows what is before or after or behind them.” No one will gain knowledge unless He allows it. The Kursi
is His Throne and encompasses many meanings, including His power, His dominion and His Knowledge.
And in all this there is no fatigue, with His attributes being beyond human understanding.

Surah Anaam 6. 101-103 speaks of the absolute unity and Authority of Allah over the entire universe,
being the only Creator and Protector of everything . Therefore, He alone is to be worshipped .Allah creates
on His own without any help which shows that not only the Creation ,but the plan and means of creation
are all on account of His Will .It says “To Him is due to primal origin of the heavens and the earth.” Ayat al
Kursi [verse of throne] also mentions that everything belongsto God as He alone is theMaster.
Since everything is creation of Allah, the question of His heaving a son does not arise. Allah, unlike humans,
is free from all human attributes and far superior to be in need to have children or spouse. “How can He
have a son when he has no consort.” Surah Ikhlas also refers to God having no physical relationship with
any of his creatures.
It is further states that human vision does not comprehend Him, but He comprehends everything of the
universe and nothing remains hidden from Him. Nothing is conceived from Him. He watches us all the time
and knows our intentions, “He created all things and He has full knowledge of all things.” Allah’s nature is
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so subtle and far beyond our limited conception so as to be invisible to the physical eye and to be
imperceptible to the senses. His presence can only be felt through the manifestation of His creation and
His total control over it.
Surah Fussilat 41.37
This passage speaks of the cosmic sign of the universe as the great signs of Allah’s lordship, authority,
wisdom and power. These signs are not to be worshipped. Instead, by pondering over them one can
understand the reality of Allah’s Greatness and creative power. People have repeatedly been told in the
Quran that natural objects on earth and sley are creation of Allah with no power or authority .Night and
day are not conflicting power but are both creations of Allah. Allah is the sole cause and the source of all
that exits and whatever exits is a sign of His creative power. The objectives in this verse is to express the
glory of Allah and His exclusive worthiness for worship in the minds of the human beings. This verse invites
people to look over the wondrous creation of Allah and believe in Him. Quran says, “Behold! In the
creation of the heavens and earth and the alternation of night and day there are indeed signs for men of
understanding”
The cycle of the night and day clearly points to the fact that sun and moon are not the objects of divine
power, but are helpless and powerless objects . They are moving according to the law of Almighty Allah . So
Allah alone should be worshipped and not the things which he has created which are actually subservient to
His commands. Thus these passage reflect that Allah is unique in His attributes and power. He alone is
worthy of worship and praise.
Surah ash Shura 42. 4-5
This passage highlights Allah’s total authority and ownership. All that is in the heaven and on the earth is
the exclusive property of Allah and He has full authority and controls to deal with it in any manner He
wants. He is the Master and Owner of the earth and heavens and everything contained in them, in any
form whatsoever, and no one else has any part or share in His ownership, His attributes and His Power. It is
said in Quran, “His are all things in the heavens and on earth.” Same message of power and authority is
given in ayat al Kursi [verse of throne] as well.
Allah’s glory and praise is so majestic that even the magnificent heavens tremble before His Might and
Splendour above them and are almost ready to burst asunder by His glory . “The heavens are almost rent
asunder from above them.” The angels, who are noble and pure beings glorify Allah. They look after the
safety of all beings on earth and pray to Allah for their forgiveness .They reflect on one side on Allah’s glory
and praise and on the other, to His forgiveness and mercy.
As all humans beings are weak and are liable to err and sin , Allah has willed upon Himself the law of grace
and mercy. Allah is forgiving and Merciful is clear from the fact that people persist in transgressing His
commands and rejecting His message, yet He mercifully goes on giving them respite so that they may
realize their mistakes and come to the right path. The Quran says, “He has inscribed for Himself (the rule
of ) Mercy.”

Surah Ikhlas 112

The name of this sura is Ikhlas meaning “Purity of faith” which is core matter because faith in the absolute
unity of Allah is the foundation of Islam. Allah is one, without any hint of plurality, He has no one to share
in His lordship, neither in His essence or His attributes. He is the only one to whom worship is due, all
other things or being are His creatures and in no way resemble Him are comparable to Him in rank,
attributes work or power “Say, He is Allah, the one and only.”
Allah is Eternal and Immortal without beginning or end , not limited by time or place or circumstances. He
is absolute no sustained or dependent on any other person or thing whereas all other are dependent on
Him for beginning as well as their continued existence. “Allah, the eternal, absolute.”
This sura negates the concept of polytheism and destroys all assumptions of family relations of Allah when
it is said, “He begets not nor is He begotten.”And there remains no room for confusion in this regard the
Quran says , “No son did Allah beget, nor is there any god along with Him.”
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The fact that Allah is matchless and unique in every respect beyond the range of human imagination
explains why any attempt at depicting Him by means of figures or symbols must be denial of truth. “And
there is none like him.”
2(b) In your opinion, why should Muslims try to understand God’s attributes? Give
reason(s) for your answer. [4]

• It is extremely important for Muslims to understand God’s personality and attributes because
now a days, many Muslims are becoming detached from God.
• Learning about God’s attributes allows them to have an understanding of Him which increases
their understanding of the world around them, or their faith, etc.
• Because God is beyond humankind’s knowledge/perception, understanding Him through what
He says about Himself in the Qur’an allows humans to know why God is important to them in
their lives.
• Knowing God gives substance, reason, and purpose to our worship. Once we know him, it
makes perfect sense to worship him.
• We understand our relationship with God more clearly when we see not only how he
differs from us, but also how we can relate to him in spite of that.

God’s relationship with the created world

M/J 2012
2 (a) From passages you have studied from the Qur’an, write about God’s relationship with humankind.
[10]
M/J 2015
2 (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]
M/J 2018 (11)
2(a) The Qur’an teaches Muslims about their relationship with God. Write about this relationship using
the passages you have studied.[10]
M/J 2020
2 (a) Using three passages you have studied from the syllabus, write about God’s relationship
with His created world. [10]
O/N 2021
2 (a) Using passages from the syllabus, write about the duties of humankind towards God and
the created world. [10]
Answer (Learn and write):
There are five passages are : 1, 2.21–22, 96.1–5, 99, and 114. These passages are about God’s
relationship with creation, but each talk about that relationship in a distinctive way. They all allow
humankind to see the link between them and God. It is not just about God giving human beings
things for their sustenance, but humans need to give thanks in return and live their life
remembering Him, which can be done in different ways.

• Surah al Fatiha(1) talks about humankind being created to worship God and that can be done
in many ways: praying, following the sunnah, making dua etc “Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher
and Sustainer of the Worlds.”. It emphasises that He is the creator and controller of all that is in
the heavens and the earth, and that He will judge over humankind. They should keep this in mind
when they do anything. In return they should ask Him for help to remain guided. Asking for help
is important which is why this is used as a prayer. . It says “ You alone we worship and your aid
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we seek.” It also shows that perfect guidance is provided by God, humans should seek it and
follow it.

• Surah al Baqarah[2:21-22] shows that God is the Cherisher and Sustainer of all that exists. These
verses speak of God’s favours upon us for our sustenance which includes the creation of man
himself, heavens and the earth, rain and growth of fruits. It says “Who has made the earth your
couch and heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens......”.They should therefore
look after their environment and protect the things that God has provided for them. It also reminds
Muslims of their duty to worship God alone and to avoid shirk, which is the greatest sin in Islam.
God wants humans to acknowledge that He is the one who provides them with this, and not anyone
else, and so they should not seek to praise others for what they have been given by [Link] says
“Then do not set up rivals with Allah when you know.” Humans should also show humbleness to
God as the real provider.
• Surah Al Alaq (96:1-5) shows the link between humankind and God by emphasising the
creation of humans, and that He then gave knowledge to humans, the tool for their learning.
They in return should seek knowledge by reading and writing whenever they can as well as
teaching it.“Read in the name of your Lord and Cherisher , who created.”(96:1). This passage
also dignifies God as the greatest teacher who teaches all forms of knowledge to mankind and
made them superior over all other creatures. “He, who taught by the pen, taught man what he
did not know.” They in return should seek knowledge whenever they can as well as teaching it.
God has made provisions for fulfilling the intellectual needs of humans in addition to their
physical and emotional needs.
• Surah al Zilzaal (99)tells us about God is the master of the Day of Judgement. God is not only
the creator of everything, but He can also destroy His creation with ease. This passage talks about
God’s power as the Destroyer, the vulnerability of humans and their surroundings as well as
God’s power of judgment. This shows that the earth is created for humankind’s benefit and that
they will be judged at the end of time according to how they lived their lives on it. “Then shall
anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it and anyone who has done an atom’s
weight of evil shall see it.” That could be related to how well they followed God and His
Messenger (pbuh), how they fulfilled their obligations, or how they looked after the earth which
was created for their benefit. They have a responsibility for their actions, so although God
provides for humans, they have to do good to show God that they are grateful and not be
forgetful of their accountability. Humans are expected to keep a watch over their actions and do
as many good deeds as possible.
• Surah Naas (114)speaks of God as the safest refuge from all kinds of evil because He is the
most powerful. “Say! I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind.”
It warns humans against secret whispers of evil by Satan within their hearts, who whisper evil/bad
ideas to humans, and then disappear and leave them on their own. “From the mischief of the
whisperer who withdraws.” Since God is all powerful and provider of all necessities and protection.
God wants humans to know that only He is the Lord, King and God over all humankind and so
everyone should turn to Him for help in difficult times, and that protection comes from Him. It also
shows humans’ responsibility to acknowledge and rely on God’s assistance not only for physical
sustenance but also in emotional and spiritual matters.

2(b) ‘God gave humankind guidance and teachings.’ Why does the Qur’an lay emphasis
on the need to gain knowledge?[10]
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Having given guidance (through the Qur’an and sunnah, etc.), God wants knowledge to be used to learn
about life and to live lives in a good way. Without learning, humans would not know about their rights and
responsibilities or about their potential as human beings. In order to respond to what God wants or what is
of benefit to themselves or others, they have to learn how to respond. God is full of mercy and love, He is
guiding people so they benefit in this life and in the next. The most beneficial knowledge would be that
which helps a person fulfil their rights towards God, fellow humans, and to develop themselves.

2 (b) What do Muslims have to consider when looking after their environment?[4]
God has given humans a responsibility on earth, so they should reflect on this and what impact
their actions might have. They should consider their responsibility to other creatures, human
beings and animals, e.g. keeping pathways clear for neighbours or treating animals well by feeding
them or providing shelter. They should think about how they can look after the land and natural
environment that God has given them for their sustenance and benefit. This can take many forms:
At a basic level they can pick up their own litter and keep their own area in good condition. They
could grow their own food which has many benefits to the environment. They should also consider
ethical farming, whether they are farmers or consumers, where animals and crops are treated in a
way that has the least impact on the environment. Reducing consumption, reusing items for longer,
and recycling are also aspects that have to be taken into account to help the environment. Finding
a way to reduce waste is an important consideration for the future of the planet.

God’s Messengers
M/J 2011
2 (a) Write about the experiences of two prophets you have studied in the Qur’an (not
including the Prophet Muhammad). [10]
O/N 2016
2 (a) From Qur’an passages you have studied, write about what lessons can be learnt from
God’s conversations with Adam and Jesus. [10]
M/J 2017(12)
2(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]
M/J 2019
2(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]
Answer [Learn and write]:
Adam (2.30–37): Adam was the first human to be created by God. God had told the angels He
would place a representative on earth, and the angels asked why, if he will only make mischief unlike the
angels who only glorify God. When God spoke to Adam, he gave him knowledge about Himself through
the things he was taught the names of, and the lessons he learnt in obedience to God. God gives
knowledge to whom He wills. “And He taught Adam the names of all things.” It shows the superiority
of humans over angels due to what they know, and so it stresses the importance of gaining knowledge.
God also told Adam that he and his wife should live in the Garden but they were not to touch a specific
tree. “But donot approach this tree, or you will run into harm and transgression.” Satan, who was
jealous of Adam and had refused to bow to him, came to tempt Adam and his wife into eating from the
tree. He is from the mischief makers who whisper evil into the minds/hearts of humans.
God sent Adam and his wife to live on earth. Adam realised his mistake and through this event turned to
God for forgiveness. And God, because He is the most merciful, turned towards Adam, meaning He
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forgave Him. . Through these events Adam learnt about God’s creation, His Knowledge and His
forgiveness.
This passage tells Muslims about the favours God gives his prophets. He gives them knowledge for
guidance, and He forgives when people turn to Him in repentance.
Ibrahim (6:75-79) was a native of Mesopotamia, presently southern Iraq. He lived amongst the
idolaters. His father Azar was an idol maker. Most of the people of his time worshiped the sun, the moon,
and the stars and prayed to them. He was given knowledge of God through the law and order of the
heavens and the earth. One night he went out in search of God to the mountains. He looked to the stars
and the moon and the sun, which people at his time worshipped. God inspired him to realise that the
things in creation that do not last cannot be the things to be worshipped as God does not change.
“Unless my Lord guides me, I will surely be of those who go astray.”
Ibrahim was gifted with exceptional wisdom Through which he understood the concept of Oneness of
God despite he was born in the people who were polytheists. It describes the stages of Ibrahim’s spiritual
enlightenment until he declared the unity of Allah to his people and forbade them from associating
partners with Allah (shirk). “And never shall I give partners to Allah.”
Through these events he turned himself to believe in God and did not associate partners with Him. God
showed Ibrahim His Unity, and His control over creation.
“How should I fear (the beings) you associate with Allah when you fear not to give partners to Allah..”
(6:81)
It also show that all the Messengers conveyed the same message of oneness of Allah (Tauheed)
Jesus (5.110) was the son of Maryam (Mary). His birth was a Miracle. He was born to Maryam
without a father by Allah’s command. He spoke as an infant and defended his mother. He was given
special miracles which helped him understand God’s personality and His ultimate power. God asked Jesus
to recount the blessings that God had given him and his mother (Maryam), showing that God gives his
prophets favours to help them in their lives. God then gives a list of the things He has given Jesus, and
the benefits of those favours: He was given the holy spirit which allowed him to speak to the people as
a child and when he was older. He was also taught the Law and the Gospel to teach the people how to
live their lives in accordance to God’s laws. He was also able to give life to the dead and heal the sick, by
the will of God. “And you heal those born blind, and the lepers by my leave ,and behold you bring forth
the dead by my leave.” (5 :110)
He also protected Jesus from the unbelievers who accused Jesus of magic and did not believe His powers
were a sign of God’s majesty. “That they said (in boast) “We killed Christ Jesus the son of Mary the
Apostle of Allah;” But they killed him not, nor crucified him but so Allah raised him up unto Himself;
and Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.” This all showed Jesus the favours he was given by God which
allowed him to believe in Him and follow Him.
The Prophet Muhammad faced hardships like the other prophets, but God reminds him that He
gave him blessings in this life and the next.
God revealed Surah Kauthar(108) to console and give hope to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) under the increasing
difficulties in Makkah by promising that he would be given abundant blessings in this worldly life and in
the hereafter.” To you have we granted abundance”. It is interpreted as fountain in heaven, his spiritual
progeny (Muslims) and his daughter Fatima, who gave him two grandsons Hassan and Hussain. Prophet
(P.B.U.H) was instructed to remain loyal to his faith by continuing to live as God taught him. “So pray to
your Lord and sacrifice”. It also warned that it would not be the Prophet (P.B.U.H) but his enemies that
would be cut off. “He who hates you, he will be cut off”.
Surah Duha (93) reassured him that “your lord has not forsaken you, nor is He displeased”. It also gave
him the glad tiding of successful future life by saying, “and the hereafter will be better for you than the
present .”which referred to his successful future life in Madina. It reminded the prophet (pbuh) of God’s
support for him throughout his life “did he not find you an orphan and give you shelter ; And he found
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you wondering and he gave you guidance ; And he found you in need and he made you independent”
After the revelation of these surah the Prophet (P.B.U.H) continued his mission with renewed hope,
strength and devotion.
In this way these passages of Quran strengthen our belief in all the messengers which is an article of faith in
Islam. They also show God’s special concern for his chosen people and how they were helped throughout
their lives.

2(b) ‘Undergoing hardships brings a person closer to God.’ Agree or disagree with this
statement, giving reasons for your answer. [4]
Yes, it brings a person closer to God. All prophets were tested which allowed them to get closer to God,
likewise humankind now can get closer to their Lord through their hardships, as long as they reflect and
understand that God is testing them. Also, by remaining patient and steadfast, and not leaving their worship,
they will gain rewards and understanding. Prophets were tested and remained steadfast, so Muslims should
also expect to be tested and they should also remain steadfast.

(b) As God’s “representative (khalifa) on Earth” say how men and women can serve God,
giving examples. [4]
Muslims can serve God on earth by understanding and fulfilling their obligation to Him, primarily through
praying and fulfilling the five pillars, and by not disobeying His commands. They should be grateful to Him
for what He has given them, food, shelter, clothing, and thank Him. This can be done by praying, reciting
Qur’an, being generous to others, helping those in need, e.g. by feeding the poor, giving gifts and charity.
They should also look after the provisions God has given them, whether it be the food and the environment
it grows in, the knowledge He gives for guidance or the people who are in a person’s life for their help and
wellbeing, e.g. by not wasting food or eating too much, by learning something and teaching others, by
respecting teachers and colleagues.

Circumstances of Surahs
M/J 2013 (01)
2 (a) Describe what the following suras tell Muslims about the circumstances in which they
were revealed: 112 (Al-Ikhlas) and 108 (Al-Kauthar). [10]
Surah Ikhlas(112) was revealed in Makkah after the event of open preaching of Islam, When
Prophet (P.B.U.H) invited them to the worships of Allah alone and forbade them from Idols worship.
According to Hazrat Abdullah bin Masud the Quraish asked the Prophet (P.B.U.H) “tell us of the ancestry of
your Lord” There upon this Surah was revealed.
The content of the Surah clearly established God’s oneness (Tauheed) by declaring the rejection of shirk
which the pagans did by worshiping 360 idols placed in the Kaabah. ‘Say! He is Allah, the one and only”.
Surah also said that God does not have a beginning or end unlike the idols that were worshiped by the pagans
at that time. “Allah the eternal absolute.” It announced that God does not have any physical relations with
anyone. The pagans believed that angels were God’s daughter. Simultaneously it negated the idea of trinity
(father, son, Holy Spirit) which the Christians believed in, “He begets not, nor is he begotten”
The pagans believed and worshiped the idols they could see, therefore this Surah negated that God had any
physical or human characteristics and said that God is beyond human comprehension because He is unique
in His personality, attributes and actions. “And there is none like him”.
As the Prophet was preaching his message, many people would ask about his God, and this sura would be
recited as an answer, giving a short and comprehensive insight into Islam’s belief in God.
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Surah Al kauthar (108) was revealed in Makkah after the mount of Safa incident of often preaching
of Islam, when Prophet (P.B.U.H) was going through a period of difficulty with the Quraish. Both his sons Al
Qasim and Abbdullah had died and Quraish used this as an opportunity to mock the Prophet (P.B.U.H) in
order to discourage him from preaching Islam. After his second son Abdullah’s death his uncle and worst
enemy Abu Lahab called him “Abtar” (cut off from his root) meaning that he had no male descendants to
carry his name and they thought that his message would die when he passed away.
God revealed this Surah to console and give hope to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) under these increasing difficulties
by promising that he would be given abundant blessings in this worldly life and in the hereafter. “To you
have we granted abundance”.
Prophet (P.B.U.H) was instructed to remain loyal to his faith by continuing to line as God thought him. “So
pray to your Lord and sacrifice”. It also wanted the Prophet (P.B.U.H) enemies specially Abu Lahab of Allah
wrath and said that it would not be the Prophet (P.B.U.H) but his enemies that would be cut off. “He who
hates you, he will be cut off.”

Surah Duha (93) was revealed in Makkah when the prophet pbuh was preaching his message openly and
the Makkans had become his enemies. It was revealed after an interval of 11 months between the
revelations, due to which pagans mocked at him. Specially Abu Lahb’s wife Umm e jamil remarked,
“Muhammad! your Lord has forsaken you” .This surah reassured him that “your lord has not forsaken
you, nor is He displeased”. It also gave him the glad tiding of successful future life by saying, “and the
hereafter will be better for you than the present .”which reffered to his successful future life in Madina. It
reminded the prophet (pbuh) of God’s support for him throughout his life “did he not find you an orphan and
give you shelter ; And he found you wondering and he gave you guidance ; And he found you in need and
he made you independent” .
Lastly it instructed him to continue to live as God taught him by helping the poor and the needy and by
expressing gratitude for God favours upon him. After the revelation of this surah, the prophet saw was
comforted and he continued to preach Islam to the Makkans.

Surah Nas (114) is one of those few surahs of Quran which were revealed on more than one occasions.
Firstly it was revealed in Makkah after the open preaching of Islam when the prophet (saw) forbade the
Makkans from idol worship. They threatened the prophet (saw) of the wrath of their false gods and cursed
him. This Surah was revealed to condemn their claims by their declaring that Prophet (pbuh) was in divine
protection therefore, Satan or his followers could not harm him, “say, I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind
,King of mankind, God of mankind from Jinn and from mankind”.
Later this surah was revealed in Madina together with surah Falaq when charms and black magic were
practiced on the lock of prophet’s hair by two Jew sisters of Labit bin Aasam by tying 11 knots. As the result
of that prophet (saw) had headache and at time thought of doing something that he had not done. Allah
revealed the surahs to cure the evil effects of black magic. Prophet saw)called Hazrat Ali and told him about
the well, where lock of his hair was thrown and guided him how to undo the black magic by untying each
knot by reciting one verse from there surahs. Hazrat Ali did likewise thus the prophet (pbuh) was cured from
black magic. These surahs together are known as a “Muazzatain” or protection seeker as they inovaked
Allah’s protections against all types of evils.
 Surahs
Allah in Himself

(a)Main Theme: [2 marks]

• This verse of Surah Fussilat discusses the theme of Allah in Himself. It is directing attention to the
concept of Tawhid (Oneness of God) by saying that God creates and controls everything; in this verse
specifically the sun and the moon.
• celestial bodies and the cycle of nature on earth are the signs of God’s power for mankind and help
them to identify their true Lord and His presence. The Quran says, “Behold! in the creation of the
heavens and the earth and the alternation of Night and Day – there are indeed signs for men of
wisdom.” (3:190)
• The order of the sun and the moon shows that God alone should be praised and worshipped and nothing
should be associated with Him. It is a negation of paganism; the sun and moon are not to be
worshipped.

(b) Importance [2 marks]

• This passage is important in daily lives of Muslims because it creates a strong link with God so Muslims
do not look up to anything/anyone else, famous people, money, etc., and they worship only Him.
• It stops them from committing shirk by making them realise that all created things are not permanent.
• God's signs invite Muslims to observe their environment and ponder over His signs. It creates awe and
wonder to help get closer to Him.
• Muslims in their daily lives learn from this passage that God administers all affairs. Thus, they consider
themselves humble servants of God and turn to Him for salvation through prayer, fasting and other
acts of worship.
(a) Main theme: [2] marks
• These verses of Surah Shura represent the theme of God in Himself. These verses confirm God’s power,
majesty and His ultimate authority over all that exists in this Universe. God is the owner of everything
because He created everything
• His majesty is so much that the heavens tremble and are almost ready to tear apart by His glory.
Everything in the Universe acknowledges His power and supremacy by praising Him. The Quran says,
“Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.”
• It further discusses that angels always glorify God’s attributes of forgiveness and mercifulness for those
who repent and request Him for their forgiveness. Humans are reliant on God’s mercy as He is the most
forgiving, the most merciful
(b) Importance [2 marks]
• 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 which in turn protects them from
arrogance.
• In their daily lives Muslims need to show humbleness like Angels who despite having magnificent
power to dispose different affairs but they fear God and seek His mercy day and night. The obedience
of angels to God can encourage humans to be obedient to God too.
• 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. They must keep trust in God who would help them in all their
problems.
• As God is merciful to humankind, they in turn should be grateful through acts of worship like
prayer,fasting etc and also try to be forgiving of others, even if they have been hurt or injured.
(a) Main Theme : [2] marks
• Surah Ikhlas presents the fundamental Quranic theme of Allah in Himself. It explains the concept of Tauhid for
the purity of faith (ikhlas). Ahad — The Only One, the Unique means that He is the One who was, is, and will
ever remain alone.
• Samad is an important description of God as it encompasses many meanings – power, independence, absolute,
etc. It means that God is independent of all but all are dependent upon Him and He needs nothing for His
sustenance. “Allah, there is no god but He, the living, the self-subsisting, the eternal.”(Ch 2:V255).
• He is free from all limitations of time and space. He has no partners or family, does not have anyone to share
His authority nor any children.
• It tells about God’s uniqueness in his personality attributes and actions and sums up the whole argument by
warning against the tendency of comparing Him with anyone or anything.

(b) Importance : [2] marks

• This passage is important for Muslims because it protects from different forms of Shirk 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 surah is often recited by Muslims in their daily prayers after surah Fatiha. Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) told that
this sura is equivalent to one third of Quran because the theme of tawhid is summarised in it. It is one of the
surahs of protection (Quls).
• In daily lives of Muslims this sura helps them to have clarity of faith and allows them to develop a relationship
with God through acts of worship like prayer, fasting etc .
 1

Surah 06-10
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 the themes in the daily living of Muslims. [4]

(a)Main theme: [2] Marks

• Surah Fatiha discusses fundamental Quranic theme of God’s relationship with the created world. The
first few verses establish God as the Lord of all that exists, even the things which humans cannot see. He
is Master of all creation so only He is deserving of all forms of worship.
• God is the Most Merciful and forgivesHis creatures. He is the one to ask for help, and it is He who
can grant it for anything. He presides over judgment.
• The straight way “Sirat-ul-Mustaqeem” is the path based on righteousness. God gives guidance
to those who ask for the straight path which is given in the Quran and in Sunnah of the Holy
Prophet. Quran says,“Verily! Right guidance is the guidance of Allah.”(3:37) If humans follow their
own way by disobeying God, they will go astray.
(b)Importance: [2] Marks
• It is actually a prayer. It is a conversation with God and He is the Creator, and God is replying to
each verse. Through it humans communicate with God.
• This is recited in every prayer. Prophet pbuh said, “No prayer is accepted
without Fatiha”. Recitation of Tasmiah brings Allah to mind before every action.
• Muslims use this to ask for guidance (given in the Qur'an and sunna), for mercy and help, even
outsidethe prayer. Submitting to God brings humbleness into lives.
• The passage reminds Muslims about Judgment on the final day by Allah. This grows awareness for
the preparation of the final day to face Allah. Muslims pray to be guided on the straight path.
Through the teachings of this sura,Muslims today gain confidence in God’s mercy and seek His
guidance.
 2

a) Main Theme : (2 MARKS)

• These verses of surah Baqarah discuss the theme of God’s relationship with the created world. God
is the creator of all mankind so humankind should only worship Him. The purpose of creation is
obedience to his commands. He not only has created humans but also made arrangements for their
sustenance.
• God’s bounties of fertile earth, shade and water from sky are recounted so they should be
grateful to God. Quran says, “Praise be to Allah, cherisher and sustainerof the worlds.”
• It also suggests that humankind should not commit the greatest sin of Shirk i.e associating
partners with God, for He is the only Creator and Sustainer.
(b) Importance: (2 MARKS)
• 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 for example by not wasting natural resources i.e water, food etc. or
reducing environmental pollution, global warming etc.
• The physical life is symbolized by the Earth and spiritual life is symbolized by the sky to emphasize
that both physical and spiritual life depend upon Allah.
• These verses also inculcate a sense of gratitude to God for his countless bounties. Muslims should
show gratitude for his favours throughobedience and acts of worship i.e salat, fasting or pilgrimage
etc.
• Through this passage Muslims reflect upon the natural world and the benefits it holds for them.
Strong belief/reliance on God should make Humans confident and courageous.

(a) Main theme: [2] marks

• These verses of surah Alaq present the Quranic theme of God’s relationship with the created
world. Divine revelation is the beginning of Islam and Prophethood.
 3
• God is the Creator which is shown in this sura through the way humans were created from a clot.
It focuses on Allah’s favours and mercy on humanity (His generosity).
• It gives the message to acquire knowledge by reading and writing. God has blessed humans with
a high destiny bygiving them the ability to use the Pen.
• God is the greatest teacher who taught all forms of knowledge to the humans andmade them
superior to other creatures. Quran says, “ and He taught Adam the names of all things.” This is
even more noticeable and important in the spiritual world.
• Iqra is command to read the signs and the places in creation to understand God’s mercy, Wisdom
and power.

(b) Importance of theme: [2] marks

• The importance of this sura is that it allows humans to understand how God created them from
nothing.
• Knowledge is a link between man and God. Pen implies reading, writing, books, study, research
etc. Seeking knowledge is encouraged and so humankind should try their best to learn
throughout their lives, especially religious knowledge so they can get to know their Lord.
• Knowledge of each subject e.g religion, science etc has its own value and acquiring knowledgeis
rewarded like performing additional prayers or fasting.
• It also helps Muslims understand how prophethood and Islam started and they should reflect
upon what God has sent down for them to help them live their lives. So they should be gratefulto
God and do their best for spreading knowledge and eliminating illiteracy and ignorance.

( a)Main Theme: [2 marks]

• Surah Zilzaal presents the theme of God’s relationship with the created world. It depicts the last day
and the end of time when will be destroyed by a tremendous earthquake as God has the power to
destroy His own creation (Al-Mumit “The Destroyer).. The Quran says, “When the earth is flattened
out and throws out whatever it contains and gets empty.” [Ch 84: V 3-4]
• The earth will give testimony on what occurred, from environmental abuse to neglect of resources.
 4
• Justice will be done in the light of the truth. In this world good and evil are mixed together. But on
that day each grade of good and evil will be taken into account.
• God will be the Judge and decision about the eternal life will be made by God, only He has the power
to do so. People will be responsible for their actions on earth and given their accounts; God will give
people their accounts, which will take them to Heaven or Hell.
(b)Importance: [2 marks]
• This Surah is a warning for people to give up their lives of sin, and be obedient to Allah. 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, fashion or money, etc .
• Muslims feel comforted by God's justice that no good deed will go unnoticed, or bad deed will go
unpunished.

(a)Main Theme: [2] marks

• Surah Naas describes the theme of God’s relationship with the created world. This Surah describes three
Attributes of God, the All-Mighty. He gives sustenance to mankind as master (Rabb), He is Sovereign as king
(Malik) and He is Worthy of all worship as true God (Ilah).
• God instructs to seek divine protection against all evils and harms. He is a protector from invisible beings
(jinn) and humankind. Since God is the most powerful, Only He can help in times of need, in this case from
(jinn) and humans. We must seek help only from Him.
• Allah created everything so controls everything, even mischief makers. It warns Muslims against secret
whispers of evil by Satan within their hearts, who whispers evil/bad ideas to humans, and then disappears and
leave them on their own. Quran says, “If suggestion from Satan assails your mind, seek refuge with Allah.”

(b)Importance: [2] Marks

• God is the King so it is Him who people should seek refuge with and should not look to others for refuge as it
leads to Shirk.
• Through these verses Muslims get to know the kind of evils/mischief they have to be wary of for example,
invisible beings (jinn), humans or internal whisperings such as jealousy. This means they should be aware of
what is happening to them so they can recognise the signs of mischief. Praying and doing good deeds
strengthens reliance on God.
• Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used these 2 Surahs (Falaq and Naas) as a means of shield from Jinns and to ward
of the attacks and effects of evil eye or black magic. Hence, a Muslim should get into the habit of reciting this
chapter every [Link] creates trust in God’s control, authority, and protection as well as awe for God’s immense
powers. Reciting this sura, along with the others (quls) is a source of protection.
 1

Surahs 11-15
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 the themes in the daily living of Muslims. [4]
 2

(a) Main theme:[2 marks]

• These verses of surah Baqarah discuss the theme of Allah’s Messengers. God created Adam, as
well as everything else (angels, jinns etc.), and made him a vicegerent (khalifa), which suggests
God values humans above angels. He granted him a high position due to superior knowledge
which shows that God gives knowledge to whom he wants and he gives the special status of
prophethood to whom he wishes.
• Superiority of Adam was duly acknowledged by all angels except Iblis (Satan), a jinn, who showed
arrogance. Satan’s act of disobedience was a result of jealously.
• 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’s
forgiveness shows that God’s forgiveness and mercy extends to all.
He prayed, "Our Lord! We have wronged ourselves; so if You do not forgive us and have mercy
on us, then surely, we are of the losers." [Aa`raf 7:23]
(b) Importance : [2 marks]
• This passage gives Muslims a sense of their connection to God as Adam is called the father of
humankind and everyone is descended from him. It also strengthens belief in Prophets.
• 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 on their sins.
• It shows God’s care and direct relationship with every individual. • Makes one realise the
importance of knowledge and learning.
• It also teaches people to stay away from arrogance and pride and they should not look down on
others.

(a)Main theme: [2] marks

• These verses of surah Anaam discuss the theme of God’s Messengers. Hazrat Ibrahim understood
the concept of Oneness of God after observing stars, moon and the sun which shows that God
uses His signs to guide his prophets.
 3

• God’s power is shown through His ability to control the sun and the moon, and that the sign of His
power is that He does not fade or die away, whilst things in creation do.
• His Oneness is pointed to through these signs and His power and so these verses tell Muslims to
worship God alone. Ibrahim declared truth to his people and rejected polytheism (Shirk)“ How
should I fear (the beings) you associate with Allah when you fear not to give partners to Allah..”
(6:81)

(b)Importance in Muslims life : [2 marks]

• The importance is that it creates a strong link with God and strengthens belief in His Oneness, so
Muslims should not look up to anything/anyone else, to help them in their lives and solve their
problems.
• It strengthen their belief by saying that created things i.e sun, moon, stars are not permanent
which protects them from committing shirk in their lives.
• It shows Muslims how God guided His messengers, in this case Ibrahim. Humans should use their
minds to ponder upon God and look up to God for guidance rather than looking to created things
for guidance.
• God's signs invite Muslims to observe their environment. It creates awe and wonder to help get
closer to Him. It reminds humankind that He is the creator of all things, and this realisation helps
them turn to Him at all times. He alone deserves worship through prayer, fasting etc.

(a)Main theme: [2marks]

• This verse of Surah Maidah of discusses the theme of God’s messengers. Hazrat Isa was human and a
Prophet and not begotten son of God. He was born to Maryam without a father and he spoke as an infant
and defended his mother. Quran says, “He shall speak to the people in childhood and in maturity.” [3:46]
• Jesus did great things but only with God’s permission, “by my leave”. God gives miracles to His prophets
to help them, in this case Hazrat Isa got the holy spirit, the Book and the wisdom ,the Law and the Gospel;
God gives humankind signs through prophets of His existence, which separates those who believe and
those who don’t.
• God provides protection to his chosen people as Hazrat Isa was protected from his enemies and raised
to heavens alive. Prophets face opposition and persecution as Hazrat Isa was rejected with claims of
magic.

(b) Importance in Muslims life : [2 marks]

• These teachings reaffirm Muslims the prophethood of Hazrat Isa (A.S) and the power of God.
• Humans are capable of great feats but it is God who gives permission for these; whether it is moon
landings, space travel etc.
 4

• The words “By My leave” are repeated with each miracle to emphasize that everything takes place
according to the will of God so we should look to Him for the fulfillment of our needs. It also
strengthens Muslim belief in all the messengers.
• Muslims should use these as signs of God’s grace, and believe in His power. They should therefore
remember Him often, by praying, supplicating or doing good deeds, etc. to ensure they are counted as
believers.

(a) Main theme: [2 marks]

• Surah Duha contains the theme God’s messengers. God gave reassurance to the Prophet (pbuh) that
He is always with him even when He seemed not to be. His assurance of this was proved by His past
actions of giving him shelter through Abu Talib, guidance through divine revelations and financial
independence through marriage with Khadija.
• A person may think that God has deserted them, or He doesn’t seem to be there, but 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 [Hereafter]. Special instructions for good treatment of the needy and the orphans are
also given. Prophet (pbuh) is also asked to show gratitude and gratefulness to God for His favours.
Allah says, “And feed with food the needy, the orphan and the prisoner for the love of Him.” [76:8]

(b) Importance in Muslims life : [2 marks]

 5

• This Surah gives a message of hope and consolation. God gave blessings to the Prophet Muhammad,
despite people saying that he had been forgotten by God.
• Muslims today should also retain their faith in difficult times. Muslims should look at their lives to see
their blessings and not think they have been given nothing. It should motivate them to keep their trust
upon Allah in straitened circumstances and hold themselves wisely with patience
• They should not constantly want more than what they have, instead they should be grateful to God
through prayers and worship and make people aware of the ways in which God helps them.
• It gives message of being kind and helpful to others in need, like orphans and beggars [Link] also
strengthens belief in prophets which is an article of faith.

(a)Main Theme: [2 marks]

• Surah Kauthar presents the theme of God’s messengers. It was revealed when Abu Lahab called
him “Abtar” (cut off) which meant that his message would be lost after his death.
• God gave reassurance to the Prophet (pbuh) of his help and gave glad tidings of abundance of
favors in this world as well as in the hereafter. It is interpreted as a river in heaven, , his spiritual
progeny (Muslims) and his daughter Fatima.
• Prophet (pbuh) in particular, and Muslims in general, are instructed to remain loyal to his faith by
establishing regular prayer, by making sacrifice and displaying determination and good character
and reminded him that “rejected were the messengers before you; with patience and constancy
they bore their rejection” (6:34).
• It also tells us of God’s wrath for Prophet’s enemies and foretold about their destruction specially
Abu Lahab.

(b) Importance in Muslims life : [2 marks]

• The teachings give an insight into 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 them hope in times of need and teaches them to have faith
in God’s support in difficulties. Future hope is also given with the promise of the Kawthar in
paradise.
• God always intervenes when one is in difficulty, so Muslims should 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 and be
grateful for what He has given them, remembering that real rewards are in the life hereafter
therefore, justice should be left to God.
• Muslims are also taught that they must love, respect and obey the Prophet (P.B.U.H) as Allah also
loved him and this will ensure their entrance in paradise.
 Week 01
DAY 01(Paper 01)
Introduction to Syllabus

1. Major themes of the Qur’an

Three groups of passages are set for close study. These relate to the themes of:
o Allah in Himself
1. Ayat al Kursi (2:255)
2. Anaam (6:101-103)
3. Fussilat (41:37)
4. Shura (42:4-5)
5. Ikhlas (112)

o Allah’s relationship with the created world

1. Fatiha (1)
2. Baqarah (2:21-22)
3. Alaq (96:1-5)
4. Zilzal (99)
5. Naas (114)

o Allah’s Messengers
1. Baqarah (2:30-37)
2. Anaam (6:75-79)
3. Maidah (5:110)
4. Duha (93)
5. Kauthar (108)

2. The history and importance of the Qur’an [14] marks

Candidates should study:
• the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet between the years 610 and 632
• compilation of the Qur’an under the Rightly Guided Caliphs
• the major themes of the Qur’an
• the use of the Qur’an in legal thinking,
• its relationship with the Hadiths,
•consensus (ijma‘ )
• analogy (qiyas)
•
3. The life and importance of the Prophet Muhammad [14] marks
Candidates should study:
• Prophet’s life from his birth to his call to prophethood
• Life in Makka and his experiences with his opponents
• Life in Madina,
• his conflicts with the Makkans and others
• his actions and character
• relations with others including women and non-Muslims
• relations with other states
• Seal of the Prophets and last Messenger of God.

In the examination either one or two questions will be set on this topic.

4. The first Islamic community [14] marks

Candidates should study:
• the Prophet’s wives
• his descendants, including his children, grandchildren and the direct line recognised among Shi‘a Muslims
as Imams
• his leading Companions, including the Ten Blessed Companions, (the four Rightly-Guided Caliphs during
his lifetime). (Note that the period of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs’ rules after the time of the Prophet is
included in the Syllabus under Paper 2.)
• his Scribes,
• the major characters who surrounded him in his ministry,
• the Emigrants and Helpers
• Position of women as wives, mothers and daughters

In the examination either one or two questions will be set on this topic.
Call to Prophethood / First Revelation
M/J 2016
2 (a) The first revelation came to the Prophet Muhammad in 610. Describe his experience
of this event. [10]
M/J 2018
2 (a): Write an account of the events of the first revelation and the Prophet’s
reaction afterwards. [10]

O/N 2004, O/N 2019

2 (a): Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s first experience of revelation. [10]
M/J 2020, M/J2022
2 (a): Write about the events of the first revelation received by the Prophet
Muhammad (pbuh) and how he was reassured afterwards. [10]
• With age and growing understanding Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H) became more aware of the corrupt society
around him and it disturbed him greatly. He could not believe the polytheistic ideas of the pagans of Makkah and
often thought of God of his forefathers, Ibrahim and Ismail. He realized that there is a force of truth beyond this
world which must have power and control over the whole universe.
A few years before the conferment of prophethood, he became more and more fond of solitude. He started retiring
for days with a supply of dates, oatmeal and water into a cave in a mountain (Jabal e Noor) outside Makkah, known
as cave of Hira. There he pondered and mediated over the condition of his people. These spells of loneliness and
mediation became more frequent as he approached the age of forty.
• When he was then forty years old, one day towards the end of Ramadan(27th) in 610 AD, he was in the cave of
Hira, when angel Jibrael appeared before him and asked him to read. This was so sudden and unexpected that
startled by the strange voice, he answered’ “I cannot read”. Then he felt that he was being hugged and squeezed
so hard that he thought that he would die of suffocation. He was then released and the request to read was
repeated. “I cannot read”, said Muhammad (P.B.U.H) again. The angel again hugged him and asked him to read.
Muhammad (P.B.U.H) was afraid, so he asked: “What shall I read?” the angel hugged him for the third time and
then recited the following verses.
• “Read in the name of your Lord and Cherisher, Who created. Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed
blood. Proclaim! And your Lord is most bountiful, He who taught by (the use of) pen. Taught man that which
he knew not” (96:1-5)
The Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) could not refuse and recited these verses after the angel and the words were
imprinted on his mind. This was the first revelation and the beginning of Prophethood of Prophet Muhammad
(P.B.U.H).
• He was greatly shaken by this experience and he ran out of the cave. Suddenly, he heard a voice and raising his
head in the sky, he saw the same angel in the sky filling the whole horizon and saying: “O Muhammad (P.B.U.H)
, you are the messenger of Allah and I am Jibrael.” Whichever way he looked, he saw the same vision and heard
the same voice. He stood there until the angel disappeared.
• After the experience he rushed back home and narrated the incident to Hazrat Khadija fearing that something
bad was going to befall him. She comforted him and assured him that no harm could come to a man of his nature
 because he was so kind and generous to the poor and the orphans and that Allah would protect him from all
evils.
• Then she went to her cousin Waraqa bin Naufal, who was a blind Christian scholar. After hearing what had
happened to her husband in the cave of Hira, he said that it was the angel Jibrael who had always brought
revelations to previous messengers of God. He also informed her that he would face enmity and persecutions by
his own people. Hazrat Khadija returned and narrated all this to the Prophet pbuh and then took him to see
Waraqa himself. Waraqa not only informed him of the hardship he would face but alse foretold that he would
be exiled from Makkah. When Prophet asked him about the unseen voices , he asked the Prophet pbuh not to
be afraid and to listen attentively.
2(b) What can Muslims today learn from the first revelation about the importance of
reading and understanding the Qur’an? [4]
• The first word, Iqra, is a command to read or learn.
• The Qur’an is the final revelation from God, and in it contains the guidance for humankind for all times.
• It is an opportunity for Muslims to know what it is that God wants from them so they can act on what will be
pleasing to God.
• For this it would be important to learn the meaning of the Qur’an although there is also reward in reading it
without knowing the meaning.
• Reading it with understanding could lead a person to have a deeper connection with God.
2 (b) What does the Prophet’s first experience of revelation tell us about the nature of
prophethood in Islam. [4]
• The Prophet’s first experience of revelation in the cave of Hira helps us to understand the concept of
prophet hood in Islam.
• It shows that Allah chose prophets according to His own will which means that it was predestined and
could not be attained by personal efforts.
• It was given without warning and often through miraculous events at the time of calling which caused
confusion and fear. For example, Prophet Muhammad got afraid when he was squeezed by angel Jibrael.
Similarly , Hazrat Musa got confused when God addressed him for the first time.
• This fear and confusion shows that the prophets were chosen from mankind.
• This event also shows that Jibrael acted as a link between God and Prophets.
(b) Was it significant, that the Quran was revealed to someone who could not read or write? [4]
• Yes, it was significant.
• being unable to read or write it would not have been possible for the Prophet to have composed the Qur’an
himself;
• the implication is that not being able to compose the Qur’an himself, it shows that the Qur’an is from God;
• the Arabs had a strong oral tradition which allowed the Qur’an to be preserved through memory alone;
• Since he could not read or write, therefore, he needed scribes for writing down the revelation and later they
became witnesses of the divinity of Quran.
• God did not want anyone else to be the Prophet’s (pbuh) teacher, as that would have meant someone was
superior to him in his knowledge of God. It was a miracle of God.
 Week 01
Day 02
Revelation of Quran (610AD – 632AD)
• As Prophet (pbuh) approached the age of 40, he started retiring in the cave of Hira outside Makkah. One day angel
Jibrail appeared before him and asked him to read. This was repeated thrice after which the Angel recited the
following five verses of Sura Alaq also known as Sura Iqra,
“Read in the name of your Lord and Cherisher who created, created man out of a clot of congealed blood.
Proclaim and your Lord is the most bountiful. He who taught by the pen. Taught man that which he knew not.”
(96:1-5)
This was the first revelation and the beginning of Prophet hood of Hazrat Muhammad (pbuh). From this time
onwards, that is 610 A.D, he continued to receive revelations throughout the rest of his life for a period of 22 years
5 months and 14 days.

• After the first revelation, sura al-‘Alaq, revelation stopped for a period of 06 months which caused the Prophet to
worry. This interval is known as “fatrah tul wahi”. Once they started again they came strongly and frequently.
They were not within his control, he had no idea when they were coming and they were safeguarded by God. The
Quran says, “Move not your tongue with it, (O Muhammad), to hasten with recitation of the Quran. Indeed
upon us is its collection and its recitation. So when we have recited it (through Jabriel), then follow its
recitation. Then upon us is its clarification (to you)” (Al Qiyamah 75:16-19)

• When a revelation came, the Holy Prophet (pbuh) experienced different sensations. He heard ringing sounds, he
perspired in the cold; he became so heavy that the animal he was riding on and his companions could feel the
weight of his body. Angel Jibrail would also come in human form in the appearance of Prophet’s companion Dahya
Qalbi. A few times the Prophet saw the Angel in his original form, e.g. on the night journey (sura Najm). The most
difficult was when they came as the ringing of a bell, and this would weigh down on him, so much so that his camel
could not withstand the weight.
He also received revelation in dreams. He also received revelation directly from God during the night journey(Last
2 verses of surah Baqarah).

• When a companion once asked of Prophet (pbuh) how a revelation comes to him, he replied,
“It comes to me sometimes as the ringing of a bell and this is hardest on me, then he leaves me and I remember from
him what he says and sometimes the Angel comes in the shape of a man and he talks to me and I remember what
he says.”
Hazrat Aisha reports, ‘‘ I saw revelations coming down upon him in the severest cold and when that condition was
over, perspiration ran down his forehead.’’
Harith bin Hisham relates that once he was sitting with his leg under the leg of the Prophet. A revelation came at
that moment and he felt his leg would crush under the weight.
Zayd bin Thabit, one of the chief scribes relates: " When the revelation came to him he felt intense heat and drops
of perspiration used to roll down his body like pearls. When this state was over I used to fetch a shoulder bone or
a piece of something else. He used to go on dictating and I used to write it down. When I finished writing the sheer
weight of transcription gave me the feeling that my leg would break and I would not be able to walk anymore
….."
 • He received revelations as divine instructions on all important occasions of life. Revelations received in Makkah
during 610 to 622 are known as Makkan surahs. These are generally brief and are related to articles of faith. e.g
oneness of Allah, life after death etc. they also talk about the opposition of the unbelievers and the language used
is stronger. Throughout all the years of persecutions and hardships in Makah, Prophet (pbuh) received revelations
which not only consoled and comforted him but also his followers e.g. Sura al Duha and Surah al Kauther etc.
In 622 A.D Prophet and his followers migrated to Madina when he was instructed through revelation. During
migration he was reassured of divine help when Abu Bakr was worried in the cave of Thawr(Saur). “For Allah did
indeed help him, when the unbelievers drove him out: he had no more than one companion the two were in the
cave and he said to his companion, have no fear, for Allah is with us” (9:40).

• The surahs received during 622AD to 632AD are known as Madni surahs. This includes verses which were
revealed during the battles, as well as those revealed in Makah and Arafat during and after the farewell
Pilgrimage. They contain social, economic, political, criminal as well as spiritual laws that are important for the
organization and development of Islamic State. These surahs are generally lengthy.
In 624 A.D Prophet (pbuh) received a revelation in which the permission of fighting was given in these words,
“Fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight you.” (2:190)
He continued to receive revelations till his farewell pilgrimage in 631A.D. The last revelation received by him was in the
plain of Arafat after he performed Hajj and delivered the sermon:
“This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your
religion.” (5:3)
The Quran was revealed in portions but it did not remain long in that condition as it was simultaneously recorded by the
Scribes.

2.(b) What was the significance of the Prophet being given the revelation by word rather
than in writing? [4]
• the Arabs at the time had an oral tradition and it was in keeping with that. As people committed things to
memory it was a more reliable way of ensuring the Qur’an’s preservation.
• Had it been delivered in a book, it would have been harder to check if any changes had been made.
• If the Prophet had been given it in written form, he would not have been able to read or write it, and because
of this the oral revelation allowed the message to be memorised by him and committed to heart, again
ensuring there were no errors.
• It is significant because the Qur’an is primarily a book of worship, in a vocative tone, rather than a legal written
guide.

2(b) The Qur’an was revealed in parts over a number of years. Why was this important? [4]
(b) Explain the significance of Quran being revealed over a period of time. [4]

• Had the Quran been revealed as a whole to Muhammad (pbuh) it would have been too heavy for him to carry
the burden. God says in the Qur’an, “If We had sent down this Qur'an upon a mountain, you would have seen
it humbled and coming apart from fear of Allah .” (59.21)
• God was taking care of the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers by revealing it in parts, as it was sent to strengthen
hearts, which could be done due to the partial revelations.
• God also sent it in this way to allow the Prophet (pbuh) and the early Muslims to ponder over its meanings and
have time to implement the teachings in their lives.
• It was also sent in parts in response to the needs of different situations and times.
 Week 01
Day 03
Preservation of Quran during Prophet’s lifetime:
• The Holy Quran started to be revealed in 610 AD and continued for a period of 22 years 5 months and
14 days . The Quran was revealed in portions but it did not remain long in that condition. Though it
could not be completed until the last verse was revealed, it was never without some form of
arrangement and every verse and chapter was given its place in the Book.
• Whenever, a revelation was received by the Prophet (P.B.U.H) he would summon one of his literate
companions and dictate the text to him. He would then ask him to read what he had written. This was
to ensure perfect accuracy. He would also ask them to memorize the verses in order to recite them in
their daily prayers. Zaid bin Thabit says, “The Prophet(pbuh) used to go on dictating and I used to write
it down. When I finished writing, he would say, 'Read!' and I would read it back to him. If there was
an omission or error he used to correct it and then let it be brought before the people."
• The Quran was written on thin and flat tablets of stone, wood, branches of palm trees, bones of camels
and goats and on piece of leather etc.
• The verse and chapters of the holy Quran were not compiled in the order of revelation, for example,
the first five verses of Surah Alaq are the first in order of revelation, but they are placed in the 96 th
chapter whereas, the chapters which appear at the beginning of the Quran were revealed at Madinah
after the Prophet (P.B.U.H) migration. The arrangement of different verses and chapters of the Quran
was done under the guidance of Hazrat Jibrail. According to Hazrat Usman every portion of Quran was
written down and given its specified place at the command of the Prophet (P.B.U.H). It was customary
with the messenger of Allah that when verses of different chapters were revealed to him or when any
chapter was revealed, he would call one of his scribes and say to him “Write this verse in the chapter
where such and such verse occurs.” (Ahmad)
• The Quran did exist in the written form but no complete copy of it existed at the time, nor could such a
copy be made while the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was alive and still receiving revelations. The whole Quran in
one arrangement was safely preserved in the memories of the reciters. It was the practice of the Holy
Prophet (P.B.U.H) to recite loudly the text of the Quran, revealed so far every year, during the month
of Ramazan. Those companions who had written it down would bring out their manuscripts and
compare it with the version of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) so that they could check the text and order
of the chapter. In the last year of his life, a few months before his death, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
read out the complete text of the Quran twice. In this way, the Divine Message was recorded in
scriptural from and learnt by heart to be preserved for the coming generations.
 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 the themes in the daily living of Muslims. [4]

(a) Main Theme: [2] Marks

• The main theme of the passage is Allah in Himself. It is also known as the verse of throne (ayat al
kursi).
• It begins with the expression of the shahada (declaration of oneness of God) and elaborates that
God is beyond human comprehension and He is free from all limitations and weaknesses.
• He is unlike other beings because He knows everything and can do everything and enjoys
autonomy in exercising His authority. Quran says, “To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens
and the earth…..” [6:101]
• Throne (Kursi) is a symbol of authority which means that He is the King ruling over all that exists.
No one shares His attributes and kingdom. His powers never weaken or waver.

(b) Importance: [2] Marks

• The importance of these themes is that these verses allow Muslims to learn and understand something
about God in a way relevant to them. This verse is declared by the Prophet (pbuh) as one of the
treasures of Paradise.
• He has the knowledge and power over all things, and this could make Muslims more cautious of
their practices which eliminates the possibility of shirk in practical lives and Muslims donot look
towards others for the fulfillment of their needs.
• The theme of God’s self-subsistence shows how certain attributes that affect humans do not
affect Him, for example, sleep, , slumber, fatigue etc. so they can rely entirely on Him.
• It is recited by Muslims for seeking Allah’s protection in their daily lives against all evils.
 (6:101-103)

(a) Main theme: [2] Marks

• These verses of Surah Anaam discuss the fundamental Quranic theme of Allah in Himself. It gives
the message of Tauhid by expressing that God does not have partners and the entire universe is
the creation of His will and design.
• He is free from all physical relations especially wife and children. The Quran says, “He begets
not nor is He begotten.” [Ch112:V3]
• God is beyond human comprehension. Although humans cannot understand Him, He
understands everything in creation.
• God is the most powerful He is the one who has the power to help humans, and He hears and
sees all that they do, therefore they should worship Him and pray to Him to reward their actions.

(b) Importance: [2] Marks

• These teachings emphasize the importance of tawhid for Muslims for their spiritual purification. It
also protects them from shirk in daily living.
• Mankind is asked to worship Him as only He can fulfill their needs, so Muslims should be careful to
pray and fast, etc., to fulfill their obligation to Him.
• When Muslims believe in Allah as Al-Knowing-Well Aware, they refrain from committing sins even
secretly and become fair in dealings with people.
• In a world where there are lots of distractions, this surah reminds Muslims that they should always
remember their Creator as He is the ultimate authority over their affairs .
 Week 02
Day 01
Compilation of Quran
O/N 2011
2(a) Give an account of how the Qur’an developed into book form. [10]
M/J 2014, O/N 2017, M/J 2019
2 (a) Give an account of how the Qur’an was compiled in the years following the
Prophet’s death. [10]
M/J 2016, M/J 2021
2(a) Write about the ways in which Abu Bakr, ‘Umar and ‘Uthman were involved in the
compilation and preservation of the Qur’an.[10]
Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A)
• During the time of the Prophet (pbuh) the Qur’an was written on pieces of animal skin and on parts of bone but
was mainly memorised by the companions. At the time of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) death no official compiled
copy of the Quran existed.
• After becoming caliph, Hazrat Abu Bakr waged a war against the false prophet Musailima and 360 companions
who had committed the Holy Quran to memory were martyred in that battle known as the battle of Yamama. Hazrat
Umar suggested to Hazrat Abu Bakr that the Quran should be compiled. Hazrat Abu Bakr, however, hesitated and said
that he would not do the job left unfinished by the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). According to Hazrat Abu Bakr, “Umar went
on persuading me to accept his suggestion till I was convinced that he was right so I accepted his suggestion.”
• Hazrat Abu Bakr asked Zaid bin Sabit, one of scribes of Divine revelation to collect the Quranic verses from every
part of the Islamic empire and compile them in book form. He was also reluctant but Abu Bakr persuaded him.
Zaid later remarked, “It would have been easier to carry a mountain on my shoulders, than to compile the
Quran.”
A commission was appointed headed by Zaid Bin Sabit and its members comprised at least twenty or twenty five
companions who had committed the Quran to memory. Zaid Bin sabit traced out and collected the chapters of the
Quran from every person who had it in their possession. He collected it from palm leaves, stones, and pieces of wood
and people who had committed it to memory.
• He applied the following careful methods for accepting any verse or surah.
He was not content just finding a written piece of the Quran. He also verified it from those people who
had heard it from the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). Though he himself was a hafiz of Quran, he always tried to find a
verse in writing before including it in his manuscript. He only accepted those verses which were in the dialect of
Quraish. He did not accept any part without two witnesses to it. The verses were written in the order that the
Prophet (pbuh) had given, but the surahs were written on separate sheets.
So that version of the Quran he recorded was the one heard from and written under the supervision of the Holy
Prophet (P.B.U.H).
• The script prepared by Zaid Bin Sabit was named “Mushaf” by Abdullah bin Masood. It remained with Abu Bakr
and after his death was transferred to the custody of Hazrat Umar, the second Khalifa, who gave it to Hazrat Hafsa, a
widow of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). This copy of the Quran came to be known as Mushaf al –Hafsa i.e Hafsa’s copy of
Holy Book.
 Hazrat Usman (R.A)
• During ‘Uthman’s time as caliph, Islam had spread to other areas. Hazrat Khuzaifa bin Yamaan reported to
Hazrat ‘Usman that people in different areas, in particular in Armenia and Azerbaijan, were reciting the Qur’an
in a different dialects. He requested him to take immediate action for the removal of these differences;
otherwise it might create a rift among the Muslims.
• Accordingly, Hazrat Usman acquired the copy of the Quran prepared by Zaid Bin Sabit from Hazrat Hafsa. He
appointed Zaid Bin Sabit along with three other knowledgeable Muslims , Abdur Rehman bin Harris, Abdullah bin Zubair
and Saad bin Aas, who assisted to make copies of the Quran from the original text. They were told to follow the dialect
of the Quraish in case of differences over the language, as the Quran had been revealed in that dialect. 04 copies were
prepared in 04 months.
• The new copies of Quran was read out loudly from the beginning to the end in the Prophet (P.B.U.H) mosque
from these copies of the Quran, so that not a shadow of doubt remained in the mind of anyone that changes had been
introduced in the Quran.
• These copies were then dispatched to the capital city of every Province of the Muslims State with instructions
that in future copies should be made only from the official authentic text. Hazrat Usman also ordered that if anyone had
a copy with a different text, it was to be destroyed by fire. He also sent teachers to these areas to teach the correct dialect
to the inhabitants of these areas.
• Hazrat Usman is Known as Jami-al-Quran. These means that he brought the Muslims around to a uniform reading
of the Quran.

2(b) Why did these caliphs think it was important to make a compilation of the Qur’an? [4]
• Abu Bakr came to see at the suggestion of Umar that the Qur’an could not be kept in memories alone.
• Although the Prophet had not made a written compilation, Abu Bakr realised that this would have to be done if the
authentic Qur’an was to be preserved for the guidance of the future generations otherwise it would be lost or corrupted
like the previous divine books.
• `Uthman realised that the original message might be lost.
• If different versions were allowed to exist the original meaning might no longer survive.
• Muslims would not have a single source of guidance.
• Rival interpretations might break the unity of the community.
• Only the original revelation given to the Prophet could preserve unity.

Q2. (b) What is the significance to Muslims today of having the Quran in the form of a
Book? [4]
• Having the Qur’an in book form ensures a standard copy which lessens the likelihood of it being reproduced
with mistakes.
• If the Qur’an had not been collected into book form, parts may have been lost.
• It also suggests unity between Muslims, e.g. they use the same book, they read it in its original language even if
that language is not their own
• The practical benefits include that copies can be carried by individuals, and referred to with ease.
• Even those who do not speak Arabic can read it and get the rewards.
• The availability of the written form of the Qur’an digitally, gives easy access to Muslims.
 Week 02
Day 02
Quran as a source of Islamic Law
Legal Thinking/ Guidance
Islam is built on the foundation of faith. Allah’s will is the primary source of law in a Muslim society. The Quran is the
most reliable source of legal thinking in Islam, as it says, “Verily this Quran guides to which is most right” (17:9)

It contains a set of legal commands which are the basis of Islamic law and which concern the life of human being in
every detail. “Blessed is He Who sent down the Criterion to His servant, that it may be an admonition to all
creatures” (25:1)

It deals with the institutions such as marriage or divorce. Emphasis is laid on behavior towards women, orphans,
relatives, slaves, and dependants. It also provides guidance about laws of inheritance.

The following examples illustrate the role of Quran as a source of guidance and legal thinking in Islam.

1. In matters of religion the Quran talks about the pillars of Islam for example, it says, “And establish regular
prayer and give the charity tax, and bow down your heads with those who bow down.” [2:43]
2. The Quran lays down rules related to Muslims social life. It lays down commands to decide the matters with
justice, not to offer bribe and to give full weight and measures.
“Give full measure when you measure and weigh with the balance that is straight” (17:35)

3. There are penal laws concerning false accusations, blood money and retaliation. The Quran lays down a simple
rule as a punishment for crimes. It says,
“We ordained therein for them, Life for life, eye for eye, nose for nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth
and wounds equal for equal.” (5:45)

4. The Quran also commands Muslims to stay away from un-Islamic practices i.e drinking wine, playing games of
chance, charging interest etc.
“O you who believe! Intoxicants and gambling, sacrificing of stones and arrows are all Satan’s
handiwork, show restraint to them so that you may prosper” (5:90)

5. Contracts are safeguarded by the command to put them in writing, to fulfill one’s undertaking to return a trust
or deposit and not eat up the property of orphans.“Those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans, eat up
a fire into their own bodies” (4:10)
6. Quran also explain us the difference between Haram and Halal and forbids the Muslims from eating anything
on which Allah’s name has not been pronounced. The Quran says,
“Lawful unto you are all four footed animals with the exception named”. (5:1)

` All other sources of Islamic law, which is Hadith, ijma and Qiyas depend upon it for their acceptance and
justification. They can only be used when Quran is silent on an issue and they never contradict it. However, the Quran
does not sometime give the practical guidance which can be obtained from the Sunnah. Thus the Quran and Sunnah
are called the primary source of law.
 Relationship between Quran and Hadith(Sunnah)
 M/J 2009, O/N 2015, M/J2018
 2 (a) How are the Qur’an and Hadiths used together in Islamic legal thinking? [10]

 O/N 2010
 2 (a) Describe how the two main sources of Islamic legal thinking are related. [10]
 O/N 2012, M/J 2014, O/N 2017
 2 (a) Write about the way in which the two primary sources of Islamic legal thinking are
used. [10]
Answer:
The Qur’an is the foremost authority in Islamic Law as it is the word of God. It contains the main teachings and
guidance for humankind about Islam, in matters of faith and worship, rulings relating to what is right and wrong, family
life, etc. It is considered as the final message sent by God, so it is therefore complete in its teaching and guidance. It is
also protected by God and so is unchangeable in its teachings and rulings: ‘We have, without doubt, sent down the
Message; and We will assuredly guard it (from corruption).’ [Sura 15.9]. Therefore, it cannot be questioned or
contradicted by the other sources.
The Sunna is the Prophet’s example and is recorded in the Hadith. The Prophet (pbuh) was said by Ai’sha to be a
‘walking Qur’an’ and said, “Verily, the character of the Prophet of Allah was the Qur’an.” Qur’an and Hadith are
interlinked so are the two main (primary) sources. Used together they identify the main principles of morality and action.
Therefore, they are the authority for the foundation of legal matters.
From the earliest times, Muslims usually refer to the practice of the Prophet when they wanted to know exactly
how to reach a decision. The hadiths were always regarded as important source of teaching alongside the Quran. Allah
says,
“So take what the Messenger gives you, and refrain from what he prohibits you.”.” [59:7]
The Prophet (pbuh) said:
“Behold I have been given the Book and a similar thing (Sunnah) along with that.”
Particularly among legal experts they became acknowledged as a source which was second only to the Quran
itself. In fact, it was agreed that the divine revelation from Allah and the words and actions of the Prophet Muhammad
were so closely related, that what the Quran stated in general terms could be further explained by referring to the Holy
Prophet’s ahadith.
1. The meaning of Quran is general; Hadith makes it specific and [Link] Hadith may add and supplement the legal
provisions of the Quran
the Quran teaches that Muslims must establisg regular daily prayerand pay Zakat, the charity tax. “And be steadfast in
prayer, give the charity tax, and bow down your heads with those who bow down.” [2:43]
Here Qur’an stresses the need to offer prayers but it is the Hadith/Sunna of the Prophet (pbuh) that tells Muslims how
to perform salat and what to read in it. Prophet said, “Pray as you see me offering prayer.”
In this example, Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat, but they are not told exactly what they should give, or how they
should give it. These details are found in the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet:
“No charity tax is due on property mounting to less than five Uqiya of silver, and no charity tax is due on fewer than
five camels, and there is no charity tax on fewer than five Wasq of wheat grain.”Ahadith such as this helped legal
experts to give advice to Muslims about how the teachings in the Quran about Zakat should be obeyed.
2. In penal law related to theft the Qur’an says,
‘As for the thief both male and female cut off their hands’.(5:38) But it is not explained, how much of the hand needs
to be cut off? Which hand, the left or the right is to be cut off? The Prophet (pbuh) explained the verse on theft saying,
“the right hand up to the wrist is to be cut off.” Moreover, the Prophet (pbuh) also explained that the punishment of
cutting of hand should not be implemented on a child or a lunatic.
3. The hours of fasting in the month of Ramadan are mentioned in the Quran in these words, “And eat and drink until
the white thread becomes distinct to you from black thread of dawn.” When companions were unable to understand
this verse, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) interpreted by saying that “the white thread refers to day and black thread refers to
the night.”
4. Hadith makes certain exceptions to the general rules as laid down by the Holy Quran. The Quran made a declaration
in general that one may inherit his property to his parents or children.
“It is prescribed, when death approaches any of you, if he leaves any goods, that he should make a bequest
to parents and next of kin.” [2:180]
Hadith has created the exception in the rule by declaring that there will be no transfer of inheritance between Muslims
and non-muslims. “A Muslim may not inherit from a non-Muslim, nor a non-Muslim may inherit from a Muslim.”
Hadith are also used when the Qur’an is silent on a matter, for example, inheritance given to grandmothers is not
specifically mentioned in the Qur’an, but it is explained by Hadith.
The Qur’an also mentions things that are not to be eaten, but the Hadith provides elaboration, for example, saying that
anything with fangs and talons can’t be eaten. The meat of donkeys being haram is also derived from the Hadith.
These examples show that Hadiths contain tafsir(interpretation) which are invaluable guides to key verses in the Quran,
and help Muslims understand the words of their creator better, thus enables them to live their lives in accordance with
the tenets of Islam.

2(b) How has the Qur’an, as a primary source of law, helped to unify Muslims over time? [4]

Muslims around the world believe in the Qur’an as the most fundamental source of guidance, revealed by God, hence
unifying them as they all consult the Qur’an for advice. The Qur’an provides the basis of Islamic Law making. That means
that despite the growth of Islam and the number of Muslims from different countries and cultures, they all believe in the
Qur’an as the basis of faith and law-making which unifies them in terms of the main teachings they live by and laws they
follow. As the Qur’an has not changed over the years and was preserved at a very early stage and God has taken the
responsibility to guard it, it has prevented many disagreements and divisions in Muslims on different issues.

(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]
I disagree with the [Link] is still necessary to memorise the Qur’an as this was the traditional way of ensuring
that there are no inaccuracies in the Qur’an, whereas it is possible that some printed copies could contain errors.
Memorizing the Quran as an act of devotion will be rewarded in the afterlife. the Messenger of Allah – PBUH – said:
“The one who memorized the Quran shall come on the Day of Judgment and the Quran says: 'O Lord! reward him.” It
will constantly purify our spirit. We are continuously interact with Allah, our Creator, and there is no greater
way than via His words. One who memorizes Quran by heart may enjoy reading it anywhere even he does not have
the book or has a chance to sit. Moreover, Prayers, especially the obligatory, need Muslim to have some verses
memorized by heart. So whatever Muslim is praying like Imam, or one of the group behind the Imam, or even alone, he
would need something of the Quran which is memorized to establish his prayers.
 Week 02
Day 03
Ijma
Meaning and Justification:
According to the principles of Islamic law, ijma is the third source. The word ijma means “consensus” or
“unanimous agreement”. It should be referred to only when there is no clear teaching in the Quran or Sunna.
The use of ijma in legal thinking is based on a number of verses in the Quran, for example
• “Thus have We made of you a community justly balanced, that you might be witnesses over the nation,
and the Messenger a witness over yourselves.” [2:143]
• “You are the best of people evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right forbidding what is wrong and
believing in Allah.” [3:110]
These and other verses like them indicate that the community has been given authority because it is upright and follows
the guidance of Allah and the example of the Prophet (pbuh).
The Holy Prophet (pbuh) also referred to the importance of following the community, when he said, “My community will
never agree upon an error.” The Holy Prophet to have said, “Gather together the righteous from among my community
and decide the matter by their counsel and do not decide it by any man’s opinion.” Therefore, from very early times it
has been accepted that the agreed view of the community is binding upon Muslims in legal and more general matters.
Kinds of Ijma:
There are two broad kinds of Ijma. The first is the general agreement of all Muslims in matters of belief, for
example, that the Quran is the most authentic revealed book and that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is the best of all
creation. This kind of Ijma is the acknowledgment of the beliefs that characterize Islam and are shared by all believers.
The second particularly concerns legal matters and can be defined as the agreement of a group of Muslims about an
issue on which the Quran and Holy Prophet’s Sunnah have not spoken the final word. More recently, the
permissibility of IVF for married Muslim couples who do not have children.
Who is qualified to practice this?
Legal experts have differed over who makes up this ‘group of Muslims’ whose Ijma should be accepted. Some said that
they should be
the companions of the Prophet (pbuh); others that they should be
the companions of Madina; yet others that they should be
the Rightly Guided Caliphs. Shi’i Muslims claim that they should be the descendants of the Holy Prophet (Imams), while
others said that they should be the legal scholars of any generation.
Examples from Quran (if asked in Paper 01)
• Regarding inheritance the Quran says,
o “It is prescribed, when death approaches any of you, if he leaves any goods, that he should make a
bequest to parents and next of kin.” [2:180]
o If a father has died before his son, and the son also dies, then the grandfather shares in the son’s
estate, together with other relatives. It allows for grandfather to take the father’s place in inheriting
from the son , even though it is not stated in so many words in the Quran.
• Marriage between a man and any of his grandmothers or granddaughters is forbidden.
This is based on the teachings in the Quran which begins, “Prohibited to you are: your mothers, daughters,
sisters; father’s sisters, mother’s sisters. Brother’s daughters, sister’s daughter; foster mothers, foster sisters;
your wives’ mothers, your step daughters under your guardianship, born of your wives.” [4:23]
 The principles follows the spirit of this full list, and adds two categories about which it is silent but which clearly
conform to all the one mentioned here.
Examples From Hadith [Paper 01,02]
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) always practised consensus of opinion (ijma) by consulting his companions on important
matters.
• For example, Azaan, He consulted his companions. Hazrat Umar’s suggestion was accepted that it should be in
human voice.
• In the battle of Uhad he consulted his companions and accepted their suggestion of fighting outside Madina
although he himself had a different opinion.
• Similarly, he practised ijma before the battle of Trench and accepted the suggestion of Salman Farsi.
Examples of Caliphs [Paper 02]
Compilation of the Qur’an.
The Qur’an was revealed in a span of 23 years. It was not compiled in a book form during the life of Prophet (p.b.u.h.).
After his death, Hazrat Abu Bakr on suggestion of Umar (R.A) and by Ijm’a of the Companions, Quran was compiled in a
book form when 360 Companions of the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) were killed in the battle of Yamamah.
Tarawih Prayers in congregation
The Prophet (p.b.u.h.) prayed tarawih only three or four times in congregation in his lifetime. It was later during the
reign of the Caliph Umar (R.A) that the system of congregation of Tarawih was added after’ Isha prayers.
Two Adhan of Jum’ah.
During the time of Prophet (p.b.u.h.) there was only one Adhan for Jum’ah prayers but during the reign of the Caliph
Uthman, Madinah expanded considerably and the Adhan could not be heard because of noise in the markets, therefore,
it was decided after Ijm’a of the companions that another Adh’an should be given.
Conclusion
These examples show that ijma can be regarded as a continuation of the divine teaching for legal and
practical purposes. It was always safeguarded by the agreement of leading Muslims or of experts who could
say whether or not a principle was in harmony with the Quran and Sunnah.

2 (b) Why are some Muslims not in favour of the use of analogy (qiyas) in solving present day issues? [4]
2(b) Why do some legal Scholars reject the use of analogy (qiyas)?

• Qiyas is the fourth source of Islamic law according to sunni Muslims coming after Quran, Hadith and Ijma. It
involves the comparison of an existing accepted situation with a new one.
• Some Muslims especially Shia reject it because it involves a lot of individual opinion.
• Its decision may differ from one person to another and therefore, cause unease for some Muslims
• e.g in the Quranic command about polygamy the qiyas of one person will be different from other due to which
a specific number cannot be decided for anyone.
• It does not have the same broad support of the community through communal agreement as other three
sources have.
M/J 2017
Paper 02
Q2(a): 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]
 Week 02
Day 04
Qiyas [Analogy]
O/N 2012
Paper 02
2 (a) Outline how Qiyas ( analogy) is used in establishing Islamic law. [10]
O/N 2020
Paper 02
2. (a) Describe the method used to make a judgment by analogy (qiyas) using the Qur’an
and Hadith. Give examples to support your answer. [10]

Meaning
Qiyas actually comes from a verb that means to measure one thing by comparing with another thing that is similar
to it. This is the fourth basis of legal method, according to Sunni Islam, coming after the Quran, Sunna and Ijma. Shi’a
Muslims do not accept it because it involves a lot of individual opinions and causes unease some Muslims.
Justification from Quran
Qiyas is often also seen in the Quran. The great expert al-Shafi’i for example, cited the verse:
“ Turn then your face in the direction of the Holy Mosque; and wheresoever you are, turn your faces in that direction.”
(2:150) And he argued that you should face the Ka’ba when you can see it, but face in its direction when you cannot
see it, using reason to determine by the sun, stars, etc. where its direction lies.
Justification from Hadith
for exercising Qiyas is usually based on the following Ahadith:
When the Prophet (pbuh) sent Mu’adh Ibn Jabal as judge to the Yemen, he asked him,
‘How will you reach a judgment when a question arises?’
Mu’adh replied, ‘according to the Word of Allah.’
“And if you find nothing therein?” the Prophet asked him.
“According to the Sunnah of the Prophet,” he answered.
“And if you find nothing therein? The Prophet pbuh asked.
“Then I will exert myself to form my own judgement”, Mu’az replied.
The Holy Prophet’s response was: “Praise be to Allah who has guided the messenger of His Prophet to that which pleases
His Prophet.”
Method
This example takes us into the method used in Qiyas, the drawing of comparisons or analogies between two principles.
The experts identified these elements as being necessary to a sound analogy:
➢ The fundamental teaching (asl, root)
o The new matter in question (far’, branch)
o The linking cause that connects them (‘illa).
o By relating these together it is possible to arrive at the new judgement, the hukm.
Examples
Quran
This may be illustrated by the following examples:
 1. Asl: the Quran forbids sales transactions after the call to prayer on Friday; The Holy Quran relate “O ye who
believe! when the call is proclaimed to prayer on Friday (the day of assembly) hasten earnestly to the
remembrance of Allah, and leave off business (and traffic) that is the best for you if ye but knew!”[62:9]
By analogy, all kinds of transactions (far’), e.g. sales, holding meetings, getting married, etc (far’)
have been forbidden;(Hukm)
‘illa: every kind of transaction is forbidden because like sales, they distract Muslims from Friday prayers.
It is important that the asl must always be from the Qur’an or the Sunna of the Prophet (pbuh) or by ijm’a

2. Ali (R.A) applied Qiyas, when he suggested punishment of 80 lashes to the drunkard, “ Umar ibn al-Khattab asked
advice about a man drinking wine. Ali ibn Abi Talib said to him, “We think that you flog him for it with eighty
lashes. Because when he drinks, he becomes intoxicated, and when he becomes intoxicated , he talks
confusedly, and when he talks confusedly, he lies.” (80 lashes is the same amount as for slandering) Umar gave
eighty lashes for drinking wine.
This is bassed on “ And those who launch a charge against chaste woman and produce not four witnesses (to
support their allegation) flog them with eighty stripes.” (An-Nur24:4)
Hadith (Paper 02)
3. Asl:The Fundamental teaching is describe by the Prophet (S.A.W), “Every intoxicant is Khamr so every intoxicant
is haram.” (Sunnan Abu Daud)
Far; the (subsidiary) : L.S.D cocaine opium and all other drugs
‘illa (the cause) connecting them is intoxication
Hukm (Law): all these drugs are declared haram (forbidden)

4. Another example is that Wudu is not valid even if the smallest portion of the body, which has to be washed
remains dry. According to a tradition reported by A’isha (R.A) if flour is dried on the nails and water has not
reached any portion of that nail, Wudu would not be considered to have taken place, so applying this in the case
of nail polish, the Wudu is not considered to have taken place as the nails remain dry.

2 (b): Why do you think the Prophet (pbuh) encouraged the exercise of personal reasoning
amongst his Companions? [4]
• Prophet (pbuh) encouraged the use of personal reasoning amongst his Companions.
• He was aware that issues or problems could confront his community where they may not be a clear-
cut answer in the primary sources but he believed if the principles laid out in them were followed a
correct decision could be reached.
• For the matters not expressly dealt with in the Quran and Hadith, along with Ijma, the law could be
deduced in those matters by the help of Qiyas . As a source of law it is subordinate to Quran, Sunnah
and Ijma because these sources could provide base for the companions in deducing law through
Qiyas.
 Qur’an with the other three sources
O/N 2014
2 (a) Write about how the Qur’an is used with the other three sources in Islamic law. [10]
M/J 2016
2.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]
O/N 2018
2(a) Write an account of how the four sources of Islamic Law are used together.[10]
• The Quran is the only revealed Book of God which is protected by God Himself. It is the fountain head not only
of Islamic religion but also of Islamic law. It is not in the form of any definite codes, but in all matters with which it
deals, it is the primary and final authority.
Allah says in the Holy Quran that,
“(It is) an exposition of that which is decreed for mankind.”[10:37]
The Holy Quran lays down the basic law, and Muslims are enjoined to decide all the disputes in accordance with the law
as laid therein. Some verses of the Holy Quran on this point are,
“We have sent down to you the Book of Truth, so that you may judge between men according to law as laid down by
God.” [4:105]
All other sources of law depend upon it for their authenticity and none of them ever contradict it.
• Sunnah of the Prophet is the second primary source of Islamic law. From the earliest times, Muslims usually refer
to the practice of the Prophet when they wanted to know exactly how to reach a decision. The ahadith were always
regarded as important source of teaching alongside the Quran. Particularly among legal experts they became
acknowledged as a source which was second only to the Quran itself.
As all Muslims know, the Quran teaches that Muslims must pay Zakat, the charity tax. This is usually mentioned in the
Quran together with Salat, as an activity of sincere believers.
“And be steadfast in prayer, give the charity tax, and bow down your heads with those who bow down.” [2:43]
In this example Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat, but they are not told exactly what they should give, or
how they should give it. These details are found in the Hadith of the Holy Prophet:“No charity tax is due on property
mounting to less than five Uqiya, and no charity tax is due on fewer than five camels, and there is no charity tax on
fewer than five Wasq.” Ahadith such as this helped legal experts to give advice to Muslims about how the teachings in
the Quran Zakat should be obeyed.
When neither of the primary sources offer answers, then ijma’ and qiyas can be used. These are used mainly for
issues that did not arise at the time of the Prophet;
• ijma
According to the principles of Islamic law, is the third source. The word ijma means “consensus” or
“unanimous agreement”. It should be referred to only when there is no clear teaching in the Quran or Sunna.
“You are the best of people evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right forbidding what is wrong and believing in
Allah.” [3:110]
These and other verses like them indicate that the community has been given authority because it is upright and follows
the guidance of Allah and the example of the Prophet (pbuh).Ijma is used to interpret and explain the teachings of
Quran when Hadith is also silent on that issue,for example; If a father has died before his son, when the son himself
dies the grandfather shares in the son’s estate, together with other relatives. It is based on the Quranic injunction:
“It is prescribed, when death approaches any of you, if he leaves any goods, that he should make a bequest to parents
and next of kin.” [2:180]
It allows for grandfather to take the father’s place in inheriting from the son, even though it is not stated in so many
words in the Quran. This example shows that ijma can be regarded as a continuation of the divine teaching for legal
and practical purposes. It was always safeguarded by the agreement of leading Muslims or of experts who could say
whether or not a principle was in harmony with the Quran and Sunnah. some issues they have to deal with have
been, at the time of the caliphs, the compiling of the Qur’an and more recently, the permissibility of IVF for married
Muslim couples who do not have children.
• Qiyas actually comes from a verb that means to measure one thing by comparing with another thing that is
similar to it. This is the fourth basis of legal method, according to Sunni Islam, coming after the Quran, Sunna and
Ijma. This may be illustrated by the following examples:
• Asl: the Quran forbids sales transactions after the call to prayer on Friday; By analogy, all kinds of transactions
e.g. sales, holding meetings, getting married, etc (far’) have been forbidden;(Hukm) every kind of transaction is
forbidden because like sales, they distract Muslims from Friday prayers.( ‘illa)
It is important that the asl must always be from the Qur’an or the Sunna of the Prophet (pbuh) or by ijm’a. It shows that
the secondary sources do not contradict the primary sources but rather use the primary sources as a basis for their
answers.
M/J 2022
2(a) Write about the Qur’an and Sunna and how they are used with ijma’ in Islamic Law. [10]

2 (b) How important is the use of ijma’ or qiyas in Islamic law in present day situations? Give
reasons for your answers.
2(b) How useful are ‘ijma and qiyas when dealing with modern issues?[4]
• New rulings can be formed for any new circumstance, based on their basic similarity with the basic laws of the
Qur’an and sunna. In this way the divine laws revealed in the Qur’an and sunna remain unchanged without
becoming outdated.
• The fundamental laws were made by God who created man and knows what’s best for him at all times. For
changing aspects of human life, the Qur’an and sunna provide basic principles which may be applied by analogy
whenever the need arises
• the secondary sources are useful in that they provide answers for issues arising such as smoking, drug use,
medical treatments which otherwise may get left to individual interpretations and Muslims would not know how
to react to these new issues.
 Week 03
Day 01
Life and Importance of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.W)
Birth and Childhood
• Prophet Muhammad was born on 12th Rabi ul Awwal 570 AD. His father Abdullah had died before his birth. His
mother Aamina, named him Ahmed and his grandfather Abdul Muttalib named him Muhammad
• According to the custom of Arabia, Prophet’s upbringing was entrusted to Halima Saadia, who belonged to the
tribe of Banu Sa’ad . Great blessing and good fortune surrounded Halima and her family as long as he stayed with her,
they were never short of food.
• After two years he was brought back to his mother but there was an epidemic(plague) in Makkah so she sent him
back with Halima. He remained with Banu Sa’ad for five years, where he learned pure Arabic dialect, he said, “Verily I
am the most perfect Arab amongst you; my descent is from Quraish and my tongue is the tongue of the Banu Sa’ad.
• When he was about five years old, the Angel Gabriel came with angel Mikael. On this occasion, Prophet’s chest
was opened and a clot of blood was taken out of his heart and it was washed with Zam-Zam water. When Halima came
to know about it, she got scared and returned him to his mother.
• When prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) was six years old, his mother took him to Madinah to visit the grave of her
husband. On their return journey she passed away at Abwa and was buried there.
• Umm Aimen, the slave girl brought Muhammad (P.B.U.H) to his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, who brought him
up with love and affection. When he was eight years old, Abdul Muttalib died, before his death he entrusted him to the
care of his son Abu Talib. Abu Talib was very kind to his nephew. Allah says regarding this, “Did he not find you an
orphan and give you shelter (and care).” ( 93:6) When he was a boy, he looked after the flocks of Abu Talib.
Meeting with Bahira
• At the age of twelve, he accompanied Abu Talib on a trade journey to Syria. On his way near Basra, he met a
Christian monk named Bahira, who noticed the signs of prophethood in him. He asked Abu Talib to take special care of
his nephew and protect him. He also warned him not to take the Prophet Muhammad to Syria as Jews would harm him.
Therefore, Abu Talib sold his merchandise at Basra and came back to Makkah.
Harb ul Fijar
• Between the years 580-590, a sacrilegious war (Harb ul Fijar) broke out at the fair of Ukaz between the Quraish
and Hawazin tribes, despite the fact that war was forbidden during the Hajj season. He was 15 year old when he went
to the battlefield. However he did not participate in actual fighting, he helped by picking up stray arrows thrown by the
enemy and giving them to his uncles. It lasted for many years.
Half al Fadul
• Seeing the injustice and ravages of war, some tribes decided to form an alliance to protect the rights of the
oppressed and provide them with justice. For this purpose they assembled in the house of Abdullah bin Jad’an , they
agreed that if they found anyone either a native of Makkah, or an outsider had been wronged they would help him
against the aggressor till the stolen property was restored to him. As three main leaders in alliance were named “Fazl”,
this alliance came to be called Half-al-Fudul (truce of Fudul). Prophet Muhammad(P.B.U.H) was among those who
attended the meeting with his uncle Zubair bin Abdul Mutlib and was so impressed by its noble objectives that he
remained loyal to it. Later on he said,” I was present in the house of Abdullah bin Judan at so excellent a pact that I
would not exchange my part in it for a herd of red camels; and if now in Islam. I were summoned unto it, I would
gladly respond’’
Youth and Titles:
• Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.h) led a virtuous life. He was considerate, kind, forbearing, patient, noble hearted
and a man of principles. He was honest and truthful and was known as “Sadiq” ( the Truthful ) and “Ameen” (the
 Trustworthy ) for these characteristics. Hazrat Sa’ad, his business partner said: “I was partner of Mohammad (P.B.U.H)
in business. I always found him very honest in his dealings; he never picked quarrels, nor made any false statement’’
On the occasion of the annual pilgrimage, he used to supply water to the pilgrims and look after their comforts. He was
always fair and honest in his dealings.
Marriage :
• Khadijah bint Khuwalid, a wealthy widow in Makkah, had heard about the honesty of prophet Muhammad
(P.B.U.H) and approached him for this purpose and sent her slave Maysera with him on a trade trip to Syria.
Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) worked diligently and earned a great deal of profit. When they came back, Maysera
praised him for his honesty, Khadijah was very much impressed, and she proposed marriage to him through her cousin
Nafeesa, which he accepted after consultation with his uncle. At the time of marriage in 595AD, Muhammad (P.B.U.H)
was 25, while Khadijah was 40 years old. They were blessed with four daughters; Zaynab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthoom,
and Fatimah and two sons Qasim and Abdullah, who died in infancy.
Fixing of the Black Stone
• In 605AD, When the Prophet was 35 year old, Quraish decided to repair Ka’bah, which had been damaged due
to floods. When the question of placing the black stone arose, a dispute started as every tribe was eager to have the
honour to install the black stone. The dispute was prevented by an elder who suggested that the arbitration of the first
person who entered the mosque the next morning should be taken and all accepted the decision. Muhammad (P.B.U.H)
happened to be the first person who came to Ka’bah, and he accepted to arbitrate. Muhammad (P.B.U.H) placed the
black stone in a sheet and asked the leader of all tribes to lift it to the level where it was to be placed, and then he
himself deposited it in its place. Thus, Muhammad (P.B.U.H) was able to prevent a crisis with wisdom and diplomacy,
which could have led to bloodshed.
Meditation
• With age and growing understanding Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H) became more and more fond of solitude. He
started retiring for days with a supply of dates, oatmeal and water into a cave in a mountain (Jabal e Noor) outside
Makkah, known as cave of Hira. There he pondered and mediated over the condition of his people. These spells of
loneliness and mediation became more frequent as he approached the age of forty.
One day towards the end of Ramadan in 610 AD, he was in the cave of Hira, when angel Jibrael appeared before him
and revealed first five verses of Surah Alaq, thus he became a prophet at the age of 40.

3. (b) Why was his relationship with his wife Khadija important for him? [4]
Khadija supported the Prophet financially and spiritually and being the first Muslim. Khadija helped to give him financial
independence which allowed him more time for meditation which prepared him for receiving revelations. Her maturity
allowed her to console and believe in the Prophet when he received revelation. She never complained about the
hardships she faced after accepting Islam and continued to encourage the Prophet pbuh to continue his mission. She was
the mother of Prophet’s children and he did not marry any other woman during her lifetime. The year of her death is
remembered as the “year of sorrow” in Prophet’s pbuh life.

(b) Despite living through the days of ignorance, the Prophet remained true to his mission.
What lessons can Muslims learn from this today? [4]
Prophet was not swayed by falsehood and would only exemplify good character, even when under pressure from others.
By losing his parents at young age he was growing up to be independent but he did not follow the evil practices of the
Makkans. So Muslim youth today should remain pious and righteous despite being independent. Despite living in age of
immorality, he was known as “al-Sadiq”, the truthful and ‘al-amin’, the trustworthy. Muslims today can be under
pressure to be dishonest in business or become less committed to their prayers, they can remain the example of the
Prophet and look up to his steadfastness in very challenging circumstances and use this as a model to follow.
 Week 03
Day 02
Preaching by the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
After the prophet received his first revelation in the cave of Hira, he only told his wife khadija and her cousin Waraqa bin
Nawfal, about the event. Khadija was the first to accept the message. Waraqa confirmed the prophethood, and for some
days there was a break in revelation which is known as Fatrah tul wahi.

1. Secret Preaching:
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) passed this time in restlessness and anxiety, until one day, he saw angel Jibrael again, in the
sky seated on a chair. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) became frightened and rushed home. He asked Khadija to cover him
up, after which he received a revelation which said:
“O you wrapped up (in a mantle)!
Arise and deliver your warning!
And glorify your Lord.” (74: 1-3)
In obedience to the command of Allah, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) invited his friends and relatives to the religion of Islam.
He did not, at this stage, make any public announcement.
• The first person to believe in him was his wife, Khadija, who accepted his message without any [Link]
was followed by the acceptance of Islam by ten years old, Ali, son of Abu Talib. The first freed slave to accept
Islam was Zaid bin Harith. The first Person outside the Prophet’s immediate family was his close friend, Hazrat
Abu Bakr, who invited many people to Islam and many prominent companions Muslim through him.
• Within a period of three years, while the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) was preaching his message in secret, about forty
righteous and God-fearing people accepted Islam. Among them were, Talha, Zubair, Jaffar, Usman Abdur
Rahman bin Auf, Sa’ad bin Abi Waqas and Abdullah bin Masud.
• The house of Hazrat Zaid bin Arqam (Dar e Arqam ) became the first preaching centre of Islam, where the
Prophet (pbuh) met these early converts and taught them the revelations he received. Muslims prayed twice in
a day and would often go to the mountains outside Makkah to worship secretly.
• None of the Holy Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) uncles accepted Islam. Abu Talib gave protection to the Holy Prophet .
Abu Lahab believed that his nephew was self-deceived.

2. Preaching to Banu Hashim:

After the revelation of the verse, “And warn your nearest relatives.” (26:214)
• the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) called Hazrat Ali and asked him to prepare a meal and assemble the Banu Hashim.
Hazrat Ali R.A did what he was told and most of the clan of Hashim came to the meal, about forty of them. After
the meal Abu Lahab said to everyone, ‘Your host has placed a spell upon you’ and with that they dispersed
before the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) could say more.
• The next day, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) asked Hazrat Ali R.A to do the same and invited his kinsmen for a meal;
but this time he made sure he addressed them. ‘ O sons of Abd-ul-Mutalib ! Allah has commanded me to call
you unto Him. Which of you, then, will help me in this, and be my brother and my successor?’
When no one responded, the young Hazrat Ali R.A spoke up and said, “O Prophet of Allah, I will be your helper
in this. I will fight him who fights you”.
• The men laughed at the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), but from among the women, the Holy Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) aunt,
Safiyah, accepted Islam as her son Zubair had done. Umm-al-Fadl, the wife of the Holy Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) uncle
Abbas, and her sisters Maymunah, Salma, and Asma also came into the faith.
3. Open Preaching:
Soon afterwards he received another revelation through which the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) was given the order: “Expound
openly what you are commanded and turn away from those who join false gods with Allah.” (15:94)
• Following this command, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) assembled the people of Makkah at the Safa hill and said to
them: “O Quraish, if I were to tell you that a large army has gathered on the other side of his mountain and is
ready to attack you, would you believe me?” They all said that they would, since they had never heard him tell
a lie. But when he asked them to believe in one Allah and his Prophethood, they became angry and some of them
shouted: “You have gone mad”.
• Abu Lahab, one of his uncles, said, ‘may you perish forever, did you call us for such a thing?’. The Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H) was shocked at the harsh response and the rejection by the Makkans. Allah comforted him by revealing
the following verses regarding the punishment awaiting Abu Lahab: ‘May the hand of Abu Lahab perish, doomed
he is. His wealth and his properties shall not safe him; he shall be thrown into a flaming fire of hell.’(111:1-3)
After this, all of them dispersed.
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) now started to address the people in public and private gatherings and on approach routes
to Makkah which were used by pilgrims to the Holy city. His efforts were successful and people started embracing Islam.
After this event the prophet and his followers had to face persecutions which continued until they migrated to Madina.

3.(b) Was it significant that the Prophet began preaching the message in secret? [4]
• yes, it was significant
• because the message was new and so the Prophet and his closest followers needed time to get used to it. Also,
they did not know how the Quraysh would react so it was better to wait until they had some strength in numbers
before openly preaching. It was also better to wait until they were guided by God to preach Islam openly as the
Prophet (pbuh) always followed divine instructions. It symbolises the importance of Spiritual and Mental Jihad.
While they were secretly preaching, they capitalised on their intellect, character and habits. It was the secret
preaching due to which Muhammad (PBUH) garnered support that lifted Islam.

3 (b) What do the Prophet’s struggles in these early years teach Muslims about dealing
with their own difficulties? [4]
• The Prophet (pbuh) was not able to preach his message openly, and even when he did, he was rejected and
treated badly. Some lessons could be that Muslims should realise that they should stick to what they believe in
even if they are finding it hard to do so - especially if they believe what they are doing is good and is what God
asks of them. For example, colleagues may not want a Muslim to pray openly or wear hijab, but they should try
their best to stick to it and keep their belief strong. They could also learn that there are times when they do not
have to tell people what they are doing, especially if they fear they will come to harm, and so it is acceptable for
them to do their good actions in secret. An example could be when moving to new a country a person can keep
their faith hidden to avoid persecution.
 Week 03
Day 03
Migration to Abyssinia
• The persecutions and hostilities by the Quraish started slowly but by the middle of fifth year of
prophethood/615 AD, they became intense. Some of prophet’s followers were persecuted to death e.g
Sumayya and her husband Yasir.
It was at this time that surah az-Zumar was revealed: “Good is for those who do good in this world, and
Allah’s earth is spacious.”(39:10)
• After this revelation, the Prophet allowed the Muslim converts to migrate to Abyssinia, where the King
Ashamah, who held the title of Negus (Najashi), was a just ruler. The first group of Muslims who
migrated were a group of 12 men and 4 women, including the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) daughter Ruqayyah
and her husband Hazrat Usman. Hazrat Abu Bakr also left for Abyssinia but came back when one of his
friends gave him protection. After a long journey in a boat , they reached the capital, Aksum, where
they had the freedom to practice their religion.
• That same year in the month of Ramadan, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was by the Ka’aba when he started to
recite the verses of Surah al-Najam, as they were revealed to him, in the presence of many idolaters. The
Impact of the word of Allah was such that, spellbound, they fell in prostration. News of this event was mis-
reported in Abyssinia, and the migrants, led to believe that the whole of Makkah had accepted Islam, made
their way back. On reaching back Makkah, they realized that the news was not true. The Quraish had heard
reports about the good treatment to the migrants whilst in Abyssinia and, in their fury, they redoubled
their persecutions.
• Seeing the plight of the Muslims, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) allowed them a second migration. This time
the group leaving Makkah was large. There were 83 men and 19 women who secretly made the journey
led by the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) cousin Jafar ibn Abu Talib. They included Hazrat Sawdah and her husband
Sakran, Zubair, Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah, Abdur Rehman bin Auf etc.
• The leaders of the Quraish, rather than celebrating the departure of these Muslims from Makkah, were
furious and determined that they should not be left in peace to settle and, perhaps, even increase their
number by preaching Islam in Abyssinia. Hence, they planned to send a delegation of two men, Amr bin
Aas and Abdullah bin Rabiyya, with some gifts to the king to request him to hand over the emigrants to
them. The sole purpose of this two-man delegation was to slander the faith of Islam in the eyes of the
Christian King Negus. They appealed to the generals first and then to Negus himself, saying: “Some foolish
young men and women of our people have taken refuge in this kingdom. They have left their own
religion, not for your, but for one they have invented, one that is unknown to us and to yourselves. We
beg you to restore them (to their elders).” They accused the Muslims of having strange beliefs about
Jesus.
• Negus, being a just ruler, asked the Muslims to explain themselves before he reached a decision about
whether or not he would return them to the Quraish. Jafar ibn Abu Talib, who was an eloquent speaker,
stepped forward and answered:
✓ “O King! We were ignorant people and we lived like wild animals. The strong among us lived by preying
upon the weak. We obeyed no law and we acknowledged no authority save that of brute force. We
worshipped idols made of stone or wood, and we knew nothing of human dignity.
✓ And then God, in His Mercy, sent to us His Messenger who was himself one of us. We knew about his
truthfulness and his integrity. His character was exemplary, and he was the well-born of the Arabs.
✓ He invited us toward the worship of One God, and he forbade us to worship idols. He exhorted us to tell
the truth, and to protect the weak, the poor, the humble, the widows and the orphans. He ordered us
to show respect to women, and never to slander them. We obeyed him and followed his teachings.
✓ Most of the people in our country are still polytheists, and they resented our conversion to the new faith
which is called Islam. They began to persecute us and it was in order to escape from persecution by them
that we sought and found sanctuary in your kingdom.”

• When Negus asked for an example of the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) message, Jafar choose well and recited Surah
Maryam, verses 17-26, about Hazrat Maryam the mother of the Prophet Isa nad his miraculous birth
without a father. It is said that when Jafar finished, the recitation, Negus and his entire court had tears in
their eyes. Negus said: "By God this and Gospel are the lights of one candle".
• Thereafter he returned the gifts, sent by the leaders of the Quraish and told them that even if they offered
him a mountain of gold, he would not hand over the people who had sought his refuge.
• When the envoys of the Quraish came back to Makkah unsuccessful, it infuriated the Quraish and they
intensified their persecutions of the believers remaining in Makkah. It was at this time that the Prophet’s
uncle Hazrat Hamza and Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab entered the fold of Islam.

4. (b) Why did the people of Makka pursue these Muslims? [4]
• The Makkans wanted to destroy the new faith, as it threatened their own religious and economic
stability and therefore, did not want the Muslims to escape and for Islam to flourish. The Makkans had
fears due to the increasing number of Muslims and the this migration encouraged those to accept Islam
who previously feared persecutions. They wanted to bring emigrants back and persecute them in order
to discourage others from accepting Islam. The success of this Migration was a threat to their political
leadership in Arabia. This migration also threatened their economic prosperity.

4(b) What was the importance of making this migration at that time? [4]
• The migration to Abyssinia was a significant event which can be described at the first major political
move taken by the Holy Prophet pbuh.. The migration to Abyssinia made the feelings of unity among
Muslims stronger; the migration to Abyssinia gave the Muslims a chance to carry the message of Islam
further and out of Arabia. The migration provided practical training during the Holy Prophet’s pbuh
lifetime for the establishment of a Muslim society in which the Prophet pbuh did not live. The Muslims
came to know that there were places where they could seek shelter and protection from the
persecution of the Quarish. It ultimately gave birth to the idea of a greater migration to Madina.

Boycott of Banu Hashim

• After the acceptance of Islam by Hazrat Hamza and Hazrat Umar, the Quraish came under pressure from
Abu Jahl to take action against the growing popularity of Islam and the courage the Muslims were now
showing in the practise of their faith. In the seventh year of prophethood the Quraish mounted pressure
on Abu Talib the chief of the Clan of Banu Hashim that he should abandon his nephew and surrender
 him to their custody. But when he refused, they decided to impose a ban on the entire clan of Banu
Hashim which, with the exception of Abu Lahab, was committed to protecting Hazrat Muhammad
(P.B.U.H) whether or not they believed him to be a Prophet.
• According to terms of ban, which was placed inside the Ka’ba, no one would marry a Hashimi woman or
give his daughter in marriage to a Hashmi; no one was to sell or buy anything from them; no one
wouldtake their opinion on political matters. So much so that no one would return their greetings. This
was to continue until the Banu Hashim themselves renounced Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H) or until he
renounced his claim to prophethood.
• The agreement was duly written and hung on Ka’bah. Members of Banu Hashim (Muslim as well as non-
Muslim) were compelled to retire to a narrow gorge called Shib Abu talib in the outskirts of Makkah,
which was the property of Abu Talib. The boycott lasted for three years i.e 7th to 10th year of
prophethood (616AD-619AD) during which Banu Hashim suffered a lot. They lived in dire condition and
face starvation. The pagans did not allow anyone to deliver food or other necessities to them. Crying of
the children due to hunger and starvation could be heard outside the gorge. They were forced to eat
grass and leaves of trees.
• Sometimes some relatives would flout the ban and smuggle food inside the gorge. For instance, Hakim
ibn Hazim was once caught by Abu Jahl, trying to smuggle in a sack of wheat to his aunt Khadija R.A. The
besieged could leave the gorge in the season of Hajj. The Boycott strengthened the faith of the Muslims.
They were more determined than ever to see their mission successful.
• Finally, after Three years, the ban was lifted in the month of Muharram when hashim bin Amr one of
the Quraish who used to smuggled food to the Banu Hashim, went to Zuhayr, one of the Prophet’s
(P.B.U.H) cousin, to protest about the ban and its effects on the besieged kinsmen. The two men won
the support of others. They met at the Ka’aba and swore not to give up until the ban was torn up. Abu
Jahl and one or two others, who opposed this action, now realised that would be futile to resist any
longer. After much discussion they decided to lift the ban and when they went to take out the document,
they found that the termite had already eaten it up and only the name of Allah was left on it.
The Year of Sorrow
The year 619 AD was a year of deep grief for the Prophet (P.B.U.H). A few months after the lifting of ban,
his beloved wife Hazrat Khadija R.A passed away. It was soon after Hazrat Khadija R.A passing away that
Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) uncle Abu fell ill. The clan leaders came to honour him and asked him if he could
arrange a compromise between his nephew and themselves. The Quraish leaders, in their effort to reach
a compromise with the Prophet (P.B.U.H), suggested that they should practise both religions. Before the
Prophet could formulate a response, he received the Sura Kafirun as a divine answer. “You have your
religion and I have my religion.” [109:6] . The meeting failed and broke up. Soon afterwards, Abu Talib
passed away. With his death, the leadership of the Banu Hashim passed over to Abu Lahab, who was
one of the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) most violent opponents.
 Week 03
Day 04
Visit to Taif
• In 10th year of Prophethood , 619AD Prophet pbuh lost the tribal protection because his worst
enemy Abu Lahab became the chief of Banu Hashim after the death of Abu Talib. The Quraish
increased their attacks against the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). This new situation meant that he could
no longer stay in Makkah with any hope of victory. Before things became too critical, he had to
explore new avenues in his search for support. So, accompanied by his adopted son, Zaid bin Hartih,
he set out for Taif, a town about 60 miles from Makkah, to preach Divine Message to its people.

• Taif was populated by Banu Saqeef, this second largest tribe in Arabia. As he began his journey, he
was full of hope that if they responded favourably it would signify a new phase in the history of
Islam. In Taif the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) approached three chiefs Masood, Habib, Abd Yalail calling
upon them to believe in Allah and support him in his efforts to establish Islam; but none gave him a
favourable response and asked him to leave the town. Prophet (P.B.U.H) did not lose heart and
started to preach Islam to common people of Taif which continued for ten days.

• When the chiefs came to know about this, they were infuriated and set upon him a crowd of
teenagers and slaves, who not only abused him but also threw stones at him. He was so badly
wounded that his shoes were filled with blood. Zaid tried hard to defend and protect him from the
stones. In trying to shield the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), his head was badly wounded. The mob
followed them until they were driven to the outskirts of the city.

• The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) then sought refuge in an orchard that belong to two makkan brothers,
Utba and Shaiba, who although opposed to Islam and to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), felt sorry for
him. They sent their Christian slave Adas with a bunch of grapes for him. After conversation with
the Prophet pbuh, Adas accepted Islam.

• At that time the Angel Gabriel appeared and addressed him saying: “Allah has heard what your
people said to you, and how they have replied to you. Allah has sent the angel of the Mountains
to you so that you may order him to do whatever you wish to these people.”
The Angel of the Mountains then appeared and said, “O Muhammad! Order what you wish. If you
like, I shall cause mountains surrounding Al-Ta’if, to fall upon them, and crush them into pieces.”
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) replied, “Why should I pray for their
destruction, for I hope that there shall be among their children those who will worship Allah
alone, and will worship none besides Him.”
He prayed, “O Allah forgive them and guide them … for they know me not.”
Afterwards, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) set out on his journey back to Makkah.
• Before entering Makkah, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) tried to seek the protection of many influential men
but was turned down. He finally sought protection from Mut’im, the chief of Nawfal. The next day,
fully armed and accompanied by his sons and cousins, he escorted Prophet (P.B.U.H) to the Ka’aba
and announced to protect him.
3 (b) How can Muslims apply in practice the lessons learnt from the Prophet’s
behaviour in this situation? [4]
• The Prophet did not give up his faith in times of difficulty, despite few conversions and
losing his wife and uncle, but rather he persevered.
• Muslims should learn to persevere in times of difficulty, when they have lost family
members or they are living in difficult circumstances in their community;
• the Prophet did not curse or wish the worst for those people who had treated him so
badly, but rather prayed for them.
• So Muslims now should not get angry and wish bad things towards those who insult them,
but should try to do or say good things for them.

Pledges of Aqabah
O/N 2012
Q3(a): Describe the events surrounding the Pledges of Aqabah and the main details in
them. [10]
M/J 2017
Q3(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]

• Soon after Abu Talib’s death conditions became unfavorable for the Prophet in Makkah because
his worst enemy Abu Lahab became the chief of Quraish, which meant that the prophet had no clan
protection. He decided to go to Taif to invite the people of Banu Saqeef tribe to Islam. He was
accompanied by his freed slave and adopted son,Zaid bin Harith. He invited the 3 chiefs of the local
tribes to Islam. They rejected his message and asked him to leave the town. He started preaching to the
common people of the town. The chiefs became furious and asked their slaves and mischievous boys
to drive him out of the town. They abused him and hurled stones at him. He was so severely injured
that the blood trickled down his body and filled his shoes. He took refuge in an orchard . Angel Jibrail
appeared with the angel of mountains and offered him to destroy the town but he forgave them and
prayed for their guidance.

• The Holy Prophet returned from Taif to Makkah and resumed his preaching. He had started
preaching to the pilgrims who came to Makkah each year. In the eleventh year of prophethood
(620A.D) six pilgrims from the tribe of khazraj in Yasrib Came to Makkah. They embraced the faith after
hearing the teachings of Islam by the prophet. They promised to spread the message of Islam in Yasrib
to their friends and relatives.

• Later in 12th year of prophet hood/ 621 AD, twelve persons met the Prophet pbuh. Two of them
belonged to the Aws tribe, and 05 of them had already accepted Islam last year. They accepted the faith
and pledged to abstain from all the un-Islamic practices i.e stealing, adultery, killing their children,
slandering or disobeying the prophet etc and to lead a righteous life believing in one Allah. In this first
Pledge of Aqabah they vowed: “We pledge our allegiance to the Messenger of Allah that we would
associate nothing with Allah, that we would neither steal, nor commit fornication, nor slay our
offspring, not utters slanders; and that we would not disobey him in that which is right.”
These people promised to spread Islam in Yasrib and the Holy Prophet sent Musab bin Umair with them
to recite the Quran and to preach Islam to the residents of the city. This pledge is also known as “Pledge
of women”(Bayyat e Nisa) because fighting was not mentioned in it.

• In 13th year of prophet hood (622A.D) a deputation consisting of 73 men and 2 women came
from Yasrib to take the same Pledge. This is called the second Pledge of Aqabah. The Prophet’s uncle
Abbas, who at that time was a non muslim, accompanied the Prophet pbuh and asked the people of
Madina to support him through thick and thin. They promised to listen and obey the Prophet, to spend
in plenty as well as in scarcity for the cause of Islam, to enjoin upon good and forbid evil, fear no one
but Allah and to defend the Prophet against his enemies if he needed and to lay down their lives for the
cause of Islam. They also invited the Prophet to Yasrib and pledged full support for him. Here, Bara, a
chieftain of Yathrib, took the Prophet (P.B.U.H) and swore: “By Him who sent you with the truth, we
will protect you as we protect them (our wives and children). So accept the pledge of our allegiance,
O Messenger of Allah, for we are men of war, possessed arms that have been handed down from
father to son.” The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) replied: “I am yours and you are mine. Whom you war
against, him I war against. Whom you make peace with, him I make peace with.” This pledge came to
be known as Bayyat e Harb i.e the pledge of war.

• When the unbelievers came to know of these developments they redoubled their persecution,
so the Prophet allowed his companions to secretly migrate to Yasrib and family after family left in this
manner.
• Mut’im, the chief of Nawfal tribe, passed away soon after the second pledge of Aqabah; with his
death, the Prophet (P.U.H.H) was once more vulnerable to the violence of the Quraish. Abu Jahal now
perfected a plot to murder him. The Quraish held a meeting in the council hall,“Dar-un-Nadwa” where
it was decided that one person from each tribe should be selected who would simultaneously attack
the Prophet and kill him.
The prophet was informed of this plan of his enemies by Allah and was told to leave Makkah that same
night. The Holy Prophet asked Ali to sleep in his bed, and then he quietly left the house unnoticed.
Accompanied by Abu Bakr, he made his way to Yasrib.
3(b) In your view, why should Muslims provide a safe haven for others? Give reasons
for your answer. [4]
They should provide a safe haven for people who are fleeing persecution, such as those fleeing the war in
Afghanistan / Syria etc. and their governments should provide shelter and basic facilities for them. It is from
the teachings of Islam to care for others and to provide the basic needs of fellow human beings. Muslims could
also provide a safe haven for those who have lost their families, especially children who are now orphaned,
whether it be due to war or famine or natural disasters.
Providing homes and shelter for them would allow them to start a new life much like Muslims of Makka started
a new life due to the invitation of the Madinans. Also, the Prophet said that the person who looks after an
orphan will be with him in paradise.

Persecutions and Difficulties in Makkah

Prophet (P.B.U.H)
O/N 2010
(a) Describe the main difficulties encountered by the Prophet himself during his time
in Makka after his call to prophethood. [10]
 O/N 2015
(a) Outline the difficulties the Prophet faced between receiving his first revelation
and the boycott of Banu Hashim. [10]
O/N 2018
(a) The Prophet Muhammad brought the message of Islam to Makka. Describe the
ways the main clans treated him after hearing his message. [10]
O/N 2020
(a) The Prophet (pbuh) was mistreated by the Makkans after preaching the message
of Islam. Write an account of the difficulties he faced. [10]
• The Prophet pbuh proclaimed the message of Islam openly on the mount of Safa after the divine
command for open preaching of Islam in 613 AD,
“Expound openly what you are commanded and turn away from those who join false gods with Allah.” [15:94]
Following this command, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) assembled the people of Makkah at the Safa hill and said
to them: “O Quraish, if I were to tell you that a large army has gathered on the other side of his mountain
and is ready to attack you, would you believe me?” They all said that they would, since they had never heard
him tell a lie. But when he asked them to believe in one Allah and his Prophethood, he was rejected by the
gathering specially his uncle Abu Lahab cursed him. After this event he had to face stiff opposition and both
physical and mental persecutions. The influential people of Makkah like Abu Jahl, Abu Lahab, Abu Sufyan etc
became his enemies. The opposition increased gradually.
• The Quraish wanted to discredit Prophet (P.B.U.H)and his teachings in front of them and so came to the
decision that they would call him a magician who was so powerful that he could separate son from father,
brother from his brother, wife from her husband, and man from his clan.
The Quraish started to ridicule, degrade, and belittle the believers as well as the Prophet (P.B.U.H) himself to
demoralize them. They said that the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was mad and the he practised witchcraft.
• His uncle Abu Lahb called him “abtar” at the death of his second son. At that time Allah consoled and comforted
him with Surah al Kauthar and declared that his enemies were “abtar”. “For he who hates you, he will be cut
off.” [108:3 ] .
After the revelation of Surah Lahab , Abu Lahab also forced his sons Utba and Utaiba to divorce the Prophet’s
daughter Ruqayya and Umm-e-Kalsoom. Abu Lahb’s wife Umm-e-Jamil used to throw thorny bushes in the
path which the Prophet pbuh was expected to take.
• They also persecuted him physically. Once Abu Jahl threw camel’s intestines on him when he was prostrating
in prayer, his daughter Hazrat Fatima removed it from him. Once Utba tried to strangle him when he was
praying near the Kaabah. An old woman regularly pelted him with rubbish on his way to prayer.
• The pagans of Makkah also tried to bribe him by offering him wealth, leadership and even promised to marry
him with the fairest girl if he abandoned the preaching of Islam. The prophet pbuh rejected all such offers and
said, “O Uncle! Even if they place the sun in my right hand and the moon on my left, to force me to renounce
my mission, I would not stop until Allah fulfills my mission or destroys me in the process.” ‘Hearing this, Abu
Talib said to him, ‘Go and preach what you please for, by Allah, I will not forsake you.”
• The Prophet pbuh and his family were boycotted for three years i.e., from 7th till 10th year of prophet hood
and were forced to live in a narrow valley outside Makkah which is also known as Shib-e-Abu Talib. It was a
time of difficulties and hardships but the Prophet pbuh remained steadfast.
• They also came up with another proposal that he should worship their gods and in return they would worship
his God. Prophet told them that there would be no compromise as Allah guided him to declare, “You have your
religion and I have my religion.”[109:6]
• After Abu Talib’s death, he lost the tribal protection as his worst enemy Abu Lahab became the chief of Banu
Hashim. He visited Taif for preaching Islam but people of banu Saqeef persecuted him mercilessly. The makkans
plotted to assassinate him, which forced him to migrate to Madina.

Followers / Early Converts:

M/J 2011
(a) Describe the difficulties faced by the followers of the Prophet in Makka. [10]
M/J 2013
(a) Give an account of the persecutions faced by the early converts to Islam in Makka.
[10]
M/J 2017
(a) The Muslims in Makka faced a lot of hostility after the Prophet began preaching
openly. Describe the persecutions against the followers of the Prophet at this time.
O/N 2020
(a) Describe the main difficulties faced by the early followers of Islam. [10]

• For the first few years the Prophet (pbuh) preached the message in secret. Initially only a handful of
Muslims accepted Islam, the main ones being Khadija, Zaid, ‘Ali and Abu Bakr, who in turn brought
many people to Islam including, ‘Uthman, Zubair ibn Awwam, and Talha. Other early converts were
Bilal, Abu ‘Ubaida, Abu Salamah. Prayer was established morning and evening. They would pray and
practise their faith in secret, often praying in the mountains.
• The Prophet pbuh proclaimed the message of Islam openly on the mount of safa after the divine
command for open preaching of Islam in 613 AD,
“Expound openly what you are commanded and turn away from those who join false gods with
Allah.” [15:94]
He was rejected and after this event, period of persecutions and difficulties started for the
prophet pbuh and his followers especially the poor and the weak.
• Another victim of the cruelty of Quraish was Ammar bin Yasir (R.A), a freed slave of Banu
Makhzum, who had accepted Islam in its early days along with his parents. They were repeatedly
made to lie on the burning sand and beaten. At times, Ammar was also thrown on burning
embers.
His parents Sumayya and Yasir were persecuted to death by Abu Jahl when they refused to
abandon their faith. They were the first martyrs of Islam.
• Bilal bin Rabah (R.A) was the slave of Ummayah ibn Khalaf was severely beaten by his master.
Sometimes, a rope was put around his neck and he was dragged by street boys around the
streets and hiss of Makkah. He was deprived of food and drink, and one day during its hottest
hour, he was bound and a heavy stone was put on his chest. He was then asked to renounce his
faith, but he kept repeating ‘One, One’ to honour the oneness of Allah. Hazrat Abu Bakr was
passing by and, moved by the sight, he purchased Bilal from his master and freed him.
Not only the poor and the weak but the rich and the noble Muslims were also persecuted.
• Once Abu Bakr(R.A) was pulled by his beard and was dragged through the streets of Makkah for
protecting the Prophet pbuh.
• Usman(R.A) was wrapped in palm leaves by his uncle and fire was lit around him so that he
would be suffocated but despite this, he did not leave Islam.
 • Harith bin Abi Hala(R.A) was also killed by the Makkans when he was trying to protect the
Prophet against his enemies.
• Zinra (R.A), a Roman slave girl was beaten and made blind by her master.
• Suhaib Rumi(R.A) was beaten so badly that he became unconscious,
• Khubaib -bin--Arat(R.A), a blacksmith was branded by his own tools; his body was burnt badly
as they threw him on burning coal.
• Abdullah bin Masud(R.A) was persecuted mercilessly when he recited the Quran loudly near
the Kaaba.
The poor and the weak Muslims were deprived of their possessions and their means of livelihood
were taken away.
• Due to the severity of the persecutions, the Prophet (pbuh) told the believers to meet secretly
at Dar al-Arqam, In 5th year of prophet hood/615AD the Prophet (S.A.W) permitted some of his
followers specially the poor and the weak, to migrate to Abyssinia to the protection of the
Christian king Negus. The Quraish followed them and demanded Negus to send them back. He
called the emigrants and after listening to the speech of Jafar bin Abu Talib, he refused to send
them back and the Makkans had to return unsuccessfully.
• The Prophet pbuh and his family Banu Hashim were boycotted for three years i.e., from 7th till
10th year of prophethood and were forced to live in a narrow valley outside Makkah which is
also known as Shib-e-Abu Talib. It was a time of difficulties and hardships but they remained
steadfast. They were not allowed to worship at the Kaaba.

(b) Why did the people fear the message that the Prophet had brought? [4]
The Quryash were leaders of Makka and so were not ready to give up their power or prestige, they
could not imagine being equal with slaves. Although they thought well of the Prophet they would have
wanted a prophet to come from their own tribe rather than Banu Hashim, as they were always
competing with other tribes for prestige. The Ka’ba was a place of pilgrimage which brought them an
income and they were not willing to risk losing that income. They were comfortable with the way they
lived their life, satisfying their needs and not thinking about others less fortunate than themselves. By
society changing to Islam they would have to give up their previous practices of drinking, or treating
women and slaves badly, and that did not suit them. It was against the religion of their forefathers,
which they did not want to change.

5.(b) Drawing from this account, what advice could be given to Muslims now living in
fear of persecution? [4]
• living in a situation where their family may not want them to practise their faith, to pray, fast or
wear hijab, they can try to conceal their faith and practice it where they can and in secret. If they
are being persecuted by the wider community for their beliefs, they could migrate to a safer
place where they would be accepted and allowed to live in freedom. It is not going to be an easy
journey, but the early Muslims did not go back on their decision.
• Elaborate further by giving your suggestions for Muslims facing persecutions in different parts
of world.
 WEEK 04
DAY 01
Isra wa Miraj
(Night Journey and Ascension)
Isra and Miraj (Night Journey and Ascension) took place on 27 Rajab, 11thyear of prophethood. The Prophet (pbuh) was
sleeping in the house of Abu Talib’s daughter Umm Hani. At midnight , he woke up and went to the Kaabah and slept at
Hijr, a semi circle also known as Hateem.
According to a hadith, Prophet (pbuh) said, “while I was lying in al-Hateem, suddenly someone came to me and cut
my body open. Then he took out my heart. Then a gold tray full of beliefs was brought to me and my heart was
washed and was filled and then returned to its original place. Then a white animal which was smaller than a mule
and bigger than a donkey was brought to me( It was Burraq). I was carried on it and Jibrael set out with me”.
Isra :
• By Allah’s will, Holy Prophet (pbuh) was taken from the Sacred mosque, Masjid al Haraam in Mecca to the
Farthest mosque, Masjid al Aqsa in Jerusalem in one night. On his way, he was shown some signs of Allah and
he also performed prayer at yathrib, mount Sinai, bethlehem and Hazrat Musa’s grave. The first part of the
journey is referred as “Isra,” or the “Nightly Journey.” The Quran describes this event in these words,
“Glory to Him who took his servant for a journey by night from the sacred mosque to the farthest mosque
whose precincts We blessed. In order that We might show him some of our signs; for He is the one who hears
and sees.” [17:1]
• Prophet (pbuh) tied the animal to the same ring on the door of Masjid Aqsa used by the other Prophets for their
animals. The Prophet (pbuh) offered two Rakk’ahs prayer over there and led all the Prophets .Gabriel then
brought two vessels; one was filled with wine and the other with milk. The Prophet (pbuh) chose the vessel filled
with milk, and drank from it. Gabriel said, “Praise be to Allah who guided you to Al-Fitra (the right path).
Miraj:
• The Prophet (pbuh) again rode the Buraq till he reached the lowest heaven. Where Jibrael asked for the gate to
be opened, and after a dialogue with the guardian angel, the gate was opened.
• on the first heaven Prophet(pbuh) saw prophet Adam sitting with a large group of people. On his right were the
souls of his descendants who were inhabitants of Paradise, while those on his left were the inhabitants of Hell.
So when he looked at right side, he smiled and when he looked at his left side, he wept. The Prophet greeted
Hazrat Adam. On second heaven he met prophet Yahya and prophet Isa. On third heaven Prophet Yusuf. On the
fourth Prophet Idrees. On the fifth prophet Haroon. On the sixth prophet Musa and on the seventh he met
prophet Ibrahim.
Then came a point where angel Jibrael left the Prophet (pbuh), as he was not allowed to go beyond for his
wings would burn. This point is a mystical lote tree known as Sidra-tul-Muntaha.
• The Prophet(pbuh) went ahead alone and finally, he entered the presence of Allah himself. Here the last two
verses(285-286) of surah Baqarah were directly revealed, and Allah promised that the major sins of his followers
would be forgiven, if they did not commit shirk. He was given the command of fifty prayers a day which were
reduced to five on his request after prophet Musa(A.S) suggested. When he was suggested for more reduction
in number , the Prophet pbuh said, “I have asked my Lord till I am ashamed to face him”.
• It is narrated that during Mairaj the Prophet (P.B.U.H) had the opportunity to see Malik the keeper of Hell. He
saw Paradise and Hell, and the two rivers of Paradise, Kauthar being one of them. Fifty prayers a day were made
obligatory for the Muslims.
Return:
• When Prophet(pbuh) returned, the lock on his door was still moving as it was when he left his house. When
Prophet (pbuh) narrated this event to Quraish, they made fun of him but when Prophet told them of trade
caravan that he had seen on his way, his truthfulness was proved. When Makkans asked Hazrat Abu Bakr about
 his opinion on this miraculous experience, he believed and testified this experience by saying, “If he said so, then
it is true.” and was given the title of Siddiquei.e “testifier to the truth.”
(b) What was the significance of this journey to the Prophet? [4]
The Prophet (pbuh) had been through a period of difficulty and this event made him realise that God had not left
him. It allowed him to see what he, and all Muslims, should be striving for which gave him renewed strength. He
realised his status amongst prophets (as seal of the prophets), he led them in prayer), and realised the blessings God
had given his community (by giving the five prayers), which gave him renewed hope in his message and he began to
work towards better prospects for him and his community. It was one of the main miracles other than the Qur’an.

Migration to Madina
• Mut’im, the chief of Banu Nawfal who had become Hazrat Muhammad’s(P.B.U.H) protector from the time of the Taif
incident, passed away soon after the second pledge of Aqabah; with his death, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was once more
vulnerable to the violence of the Quraish. Abu Jahal now perfected a plot to murder him. The Quraish held a meeting
in the council hall, “Dar-un-Nadwa” where it was decided that one person from each tribe should be selected who
would simultaneously attack the Prophet(P.B.U.H) and kill him. Abu Lahab, now the chief of the Banu Hashim, was not
informed of this plan, but the understanding was that he, being a strong opponent of Islam and the Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H), would accept the blood money and settle the issue.
The prophet was informed of this plan of his enemies by Allah and was told to leave Makkah that same night:
“Remember how the unbelievers plotted against you, to keep you in bonds or slay thee, or get you out (of your
home).They plot and plan, and Allah too plans, But the best of planners is Allah.” (Al-Anfal 8:30)
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) escaped secretly at night leaving behind Ali to sleep in his bed and to return the valuables
entrusted to him by people. the Prophet(P.B.U.H) came out of his house and threw dust at the assassins, and they
could not see him as he recited the following verse. “And We have put before them a barrier and behind them a
barrier and covered them, so they do not see”. [36:9]
• Prophet (P.B.U.H) and Hazrat Abu Bakr left Makkah during the night on a pair of camels and made their way to a cave
in Mount Thaur. Hazrat Abu Bakr’s R.A son Abdullah and his freed slave Amr ibn Fuhayrah, followed behind with a
flock of sheep to cover up their tracks. Abu Bakr went with him; they took refuge in Cave Thawr; Abu Bakr went in to
make sure it was clean and safe; At that time Abu Bakr was bitten by a scorpion or a snake as he had put his foot on
one of the holes that was left unfilled, but he did not cry out as the prophet was sleeping in his lap.
• Next morning, when the chiefs of Makka found Ali in Hazrat Muhammad‘s (P.B.U.H)bed they were furious. Determined
more than ever to find him, they offered a huge reward of one hundred red camels for his capture, dead or alive. On
the afternoon of the third day, Some members of the quraish party climbed upto the cave and the foremost of them
turned around as he saw the cave entrance. His companion asked him why he did not go into the cave. He answered,
“Its entrance is covered with cobwebs and there is a pair of wild pigeons on the threshold. Obviously, no one could
have gone in without disturbing the pigeons and destroying the cobwebs”. The Quraish were further convinced that
the cave was empty when they saw its entrance covered with branches growing from a nearby tree. They agreed to
leave and called one another to return to Makkah
• Hazrat Abu Bakr trembled with fear and expected them to break in the cave. He said to the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), if
any one of them looks down he will find us. To this the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) answered, “ O Abu Bakr, how can you
fear for two men whose constant companion is Allah Himself”
This incident mentioned in Quran in the following words, “For Allah did indeed help him, when the unbelievers drove
him out: he had no more than one companion the two were in the cave and he said to his companion, have no fear,
for Allah is with us” (9:40).
During their brief stay at the cave, Abdullah son of Abu bakr brought the news of Quraish, while Asma daughter of
Abu Bakr, brought them food, and Amr Bin Fuhaira, the freed slave of Abu Bakr, used to bring the milk sheep to
provide them with fresh milk. After spending three days in the cave, they set out for Madinah. Abdullah bin Araqueet
(a non muslim at that time) was appointed as a guide to travel on an unconventional route.
• Prophet (pbuh) also stopped at the tents of Aatikah bint Khalf also known as Umm e Mu’abd and drank milk there
after the Prophet pbuh milked and old weak goat with his blessed hands.
• One of the Makkans, Suraqa bin Malik almost caught up with them but could not get near because his horse kept
stumbling and he finally abandoned his desire of capturing Muhammad(P.B.U.H). He also got a pledge of forgiveness
in written form.
• Buraidah Aslami and seventy people from Banu Aslam also accepted Islam.
• After under taking six days of journey the Prophet (P.B.U.H) arrived at Quba, a place near Yathrib on 23rd September
622 A.D. He stayed at the place of fourteen days during which he built a mosque. That was the first mosque of Islam;
the Prophet (P.B.U.H) himself participated in the building of the mosque at Quba. Ali R.A joined him in Quba. On his
way from Quba to Madinah, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) offered his first Friday congregational prayers at the quarters of
Banu Saleem, and delivered his first Friday sermon.
• Meanwhile the people of Madinah waited for the Prophet (P.B.U.H) eagerly. In their delight, the girls of the Ansar
sang to greet the Prophet. On the day the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) arrived, the people had just gone back
into their houses. The first person to see him was a Jew, thus fulfilling the prophecy contained in the Torah. In
Madinah, the people greeted the prophet (P.B.U.H) enthusiastically. Children were singing as he arrived.
Everyone was eager that he should stay with him. They grabbed the halter of his she-camel Qaswa, but the
Prophet (P.B.U.H) said, “Let it go its own way, it is under orders.” Eventually the camel stopped at the home of
Banu Malik Ibn al-Najjar. By herself, she knelt at a place, which today marks the door of the Prophet’s mosque.
It belonged to two orphan boys, Sahil and Suhail, of the Banu Najjar. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) paid them the price
of the land and built the mosque of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) (Masjid-al-nabvi). While the mosque was being built,
he stayed at the house of Abu Ayub al Ansari.

5. (b) What was the significance of this journey for the Muslims? [4]
The importance of migration can be judged from the fact that the Muslim calendar starts from this event and not
from any other incident in the life of the Prophet (P.B.U.H). The migration completely altered the prevailing conditions
of Arabia, it reshaped the Arab peninsula socially and politically. Muslims before migration used to pray secretly for
fear of the unbelievers. As they were weak and in minority. They became strong enough to stand against injustice
and persecutions. Prophet also got the chance to organize his followers into a disciplined community. As a result of
this event, the first Islamic state was established and the Prophet pbuh became the head of the state where Prophet’s
call received response and continued to grow and expand.
 Week 04
Day 02
First Year after Hijra
M/J 2013
3 (a) Write about the events of the first year following the Prophet’s arrival in Madina. [10]
• On the day the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) arrived at Madina, the people had just gone back into their houses.
The first person to see him was a Jew, thus fulfilling the prophecy contained in the Torah. In Madinah, the people
greeted the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) enthusiastically. Children were singing as he arrived. Everyone was
eager that he should stay with him. They grabbed the halter of his she-camel Qaswa, but the Prophet (P.B.U.H)
said, “Let it go its own way, it is under orders.” Eventually the camel stopped at the home of Banu Malik Ibn al-
Najjar. By herself, she knelt at a place, which today marks the door of the Prophet’s mosque. It belonged to two
orphan boys, Sahil and Suhail, of the Banu Najjar.
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) paid them the price of the land and built the mosque of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) (Masjid-al-
nabvi). While the mosque was being built, he stayed at the house of Abu Ayub al Ansari. The Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H) himself worked hard with the companions to complete the building. This mosque was known as the
“Mosque of the Prophet” or Masjid-e-Nabawi. It is referred to in the Quran in the following words:
“There is a mosque whose foundation was laid from the first day on piety; it is more worthy of thy standing
forth (for prayer) therein. In it are men who love to be purified, and Allah loveth those who make themselves
pure.” (9:108)
• After the construction of Masjid e Nabwi Muslims felt the need to find a way to inform people to come to
congregational prayer. The Prophet (pbuh) asked his companions for their advice.
Some suggested that the Muslims, like the Jews, should blow a horn to announce the time for the prayer.
Others said, the Muslims might ring bells as the Christians do in their churches. A few proposed that the
Muslims, like the fire-worshippers, kindle a fire to call people to pray. Yet other suggested the beating of
drums but the Prophet (pbuh) did not approve any of these because it resembled the unbelievers. Hazrat Umar
suggested that people should be called to prayer in human voice. The Prophet (pbuh) waited to hear a better
idea or to receive guidance from Allah.
One day, a companion, 'Abdullah ibn Zaid , came and narrated his dream in which he was taught the words of
Azaan. The Prophet (pbuh) recognized that the dream of 'Abdullah bin Zaid was true. He asked 'Abdullah to
teach the words of the 'Adhan to Bilal, who had a loud and beautiful voice. Thus he was appointed as the
Muezzin.
• The Muslims in Madinah belonged to two categories. Those who had migrated to Madinah from Makkah were
known as Muhajirin or emigrants. Those who belonged to Madinah and had given shelter to the emigrants and
helped them were known as Ansar or the Helpers. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) established brotherhood
between these two groups of Muslims. He told the Ansar that the Muhajirin were in need of help, and so he
wanted to create brotherhood between them. The Ansar willingly agreed to this. The Holy Quran mentioned
this in these words: “Those who believed and adopted exile, and fought for the faith, with their property and
their persons, in the cause of Allah, as well as those who gave (them) asylum and aid, these are (all) friends
and protectors, one of another.”(8:72)
• Even the enmity between the two tribes of Madinah, Aus and Khazraj was forgotten, as mentioned in the Holly
Quran; “....And remember with gratitude Allah’s favour on you; for you were enemies and He joined yours
heart in love, so that by His grace, you became brothers...”(3:103)
• There were three main tribes of Jews; Banu Qainuqa, Banu Nazir and Banu Quraiza, settled in the suburbs of
Madinah in their own strong fortresses. As soon as the Holly Prophet (P.B.U.H) was settled in Madinah, he
 called together the Muslims and the Jewish tribes for consultation. After an exchange of views, an agreement
was reached which granted
o equal rights to the Jews with full liberty to follow their own faith without any interference by the Holly Prophet
(P.B.U.H) or his followers.
o It stated that the Muslims and Jews were allies and would help each other,
o that neither party would commit aggression against the other,
o and that in case of an attack on Madinah, both Muslims and Jews would defend it.
o It also guaranteed protection of their life and property
o the Treaty also established the Holy Prophet (P.B.U,.H) as the leader and the head of the State of Madinah.
o It also stated that the disputes of the Jews would be decided according to their own law of Taurah.
The name of the town was changes from Yathrib to Madina tul Nabi i.e City of the Prophet.

5(b) What lessons can Muslims learn from the brotherhood that was created in Madina?[4]
• Islam establishes human brotherhood on the basis of faith. Allah says, “The believers are a single
brotherhood.” [49:10]
• Brotherhood between Muhajirin and Ansar reminds the Muslims that the feeling of brotherhood guarantees
the safety and the well-being of the society at large.
• Muslims can help by looking to see what they can offer others. Help can be in any form, e.g., financial
assistance to poor, youth services, challenging social injustice etc.
• Muslims may live in areas where people from another country have come to settle, whether it be because they
are fleeing from persecution for example Kashmir, Palestine etc or to seek work. Muslims can help them by
finding out about them, asking if they need any help, providing food/clothing/information and /or by helping
them to integrate.

Charter of Madina
O/N 2019
4(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]
M/J 2022
3 (a) Give an account of the tribes living in Madina and the details of the Constitution of
Madina that brought them all together. [10]

• In 622 A.D. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) migrated to Yathrib (Madinah) together with his followers after
receiving an invitation from the Arab tribes of Yathrib. At that time, Yathrib was a pluralistic society
composed of people of different religions with a large population of Jews. These tribes were engaged
in bitter quarrels and often went to war over disputes that had been going on for generations. The Aws
and the Khazraj were two of the most prominent Arab tribes of Madina. Most of the people belonging
to these tribes had become Muslim and were together called ‘Ansars’ after the migration. These tribes
had been fighting for 120 years. The Battle of Bu’ath was fought between them near the city of Madina
before the arrival of the Prophet (pbuh). The Prophet’s migration resolved the rivalry between them.
• There were also some Jewish tribes living in Madina, most prominent of which were Banu Qaynuqa,
Banu Nadir and Banu Qurayza. They had been waiting for the arrival of a prophet, but they had
expected him to come from the lineage of Is-haq. There were also some Christians living there.
• The continuous state of anarchy in Madinah eventually forced the residents to seek options for
peace. They agreed to make a prominent tribal chief, Abdullah ibn Ubay bin Salool, their king so that
peace and harmony could be achieved. Around this time, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) arrived in
Madinah and the tide turned against Abdullah bin Ubay. Since the Prophet was viewed as a
 respectable, honest and trustworthy person, he was requested to head the soon to be city-state of
Madinah.
Creation of the Charter
• After assuming a central role in Madinah, the Prophet recognized a few pressing needs, which included:
Determining the rights and responsibilities of the local population as well as the immigrants from
Makkah. Making agreements with the non-Muslim population of Madinah , especially the Jews, to
ensure peace and harmony. Creating a strategy and plan to defend the city against invasions. Making
resources available for the immigrants to make a living.
• The strong need to create a centralized government in Madinah to end the prevailing anarchy resulted
in the creation of the Charter of Madinah. It is divided into two parts; the first part deals with the rules
and regulations for Muslim immigrants (Muhajirin) and Muslim natives (Ansar) and the second part
deals with the rights and responsibilities of the Jews of Madinah. This charter contains 47 clauses, which
laid the foundations of a sovereign nation-state comprising of Muslims, Jews and Pagans, having equal
rights and responsibilities under a common citizenship.
➢ The salient features of this charter include:
• equal rights to the Jews with full liberty to follow their own faith without any interference by the Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H) or his followers.
• It stated that the Muslims and Jews were allies and would help each other,
• that neither party would commit aggression against the other,
• and that in case of an attack on Madinah, both Muslims and Jews would defend it.
• It also guaranteed protection of their life and property
• Treaty also established the Holy Prophet (P.B.U,.H) as the leader and the head of the State of Madinah. In the event
of a dispute among the signatories, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was the final authority for settling the dispute
• A system of financial aid was developed within each tribe and between tribes. Communal funds were set up which
were used in times of financial need such as to pay ransom or blood-money
• The Quraysh of Makkah were to be boycotted commercially by all signatories and nobody was to extend any support
to them.
The constitution meant that the rights of all citizens were safeguarded, and initially the relations between the different
groups remained sound. They engaged in commercial dealings with each other and gave and received help from each
other.

4(b) How can Muslims apply the Prophet Muhammad’s example of compassion when
building community relations? [4]
(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]
• Muslims can follow the Prophet’s example and have cordial relations with minority groups in their communities
for example minorities living in Pakistan i.e Christians, Hindus and Sikhs etc
• Non-Muslims or other ethnic minorities can be offered religious and social freedom based on the principles of
‘Charter of Madina’.
• Rights of non muslims can also be guaranteed through law by giving protection to their lives and properties as
well as their places of worship.
• Another important aspect can be discouraging any discrimination against minority groups and providing them
equal opportunities to take active part in communal life.
• lessons learned from the Constitution of Madina must be applied in today’s world such as entering into
agreements with other communities and nations to establish common goals. For example, sharing resources
through economic co-operation agreements or establishing peace.
 Week 04
Day 03
Battle of Badr
O/N [2013, 2016, 2019, 2021]
3(a) Describe the events of the first battle in Islam, the Battle of Badr. [10]
• The Battle of Badr was the first battle between Muslims of Madinah and Quraish of Mecca that took
place in 624 A.D. / 2nd A.H. After the migration of Madinah, the relations between them were not good as the
Holy Prophet (PBUH) had captured their trade routes. The Muslims had heard of a Meccan caravan passing
near Madinah, and they waited for it near the wells of Badr. As Abu Sufyan, who was leading the caravan feared
that Muslims might intercept it, he sent a messenger to Makkah with an urgent plea for help.
• The Meccans immediately raised an army of about 1300 men under Abu Jahl to escort the caravan
safely back to Mecca. Meanwhile, Abu Sufyan reached Makkah safely from another route and asked the army
to return. However, some of the leaders like Abu Jahl insisted on attacking the Muslims. some of the Makkans
left and the strength came down to 1000.
• When the Holy Prophet (PBUH) heard about the Meccan army advancing, he consulted his companions
and decided to fight against the Makan army. He immediately raised an army of Muslims. Quraish reached Badr
first and encamped there. Muslims though encamped later were able to occupy the wells. Both armies were
badly mismatched. There were 313 Muslims who had to fight over 1000 Quraish. In addition to this, the Muslim
army was ill-equipped having 2 horses and 70 camels . On the other hand, the Quraish army was well-equipped
having 200 horses and 700 camels.
• The Prophet (S.A.W) spent the night, praying to Allah for the victory; he prayed,
“O Allah! if this small band of men perish, there will be no one alive to worship you. And
your faith will be destroyed forever.” (Sahih Bukhari)
Holy Prophet (PBUH)’s prayer for the Muslims was accepted by Allah that is mentioned in the Holy Quran
which says,
“When you sought aid from your Lord, He answered you: I will surely assist you with a thousand of the
angels ranks on ranks.” [8:9]
• It rained the night before the battle. The ground on which Muslims stood was sandy so rain proved to
be a mercy as it made the ground smooth and the sand firm. The Quran says, “He sent down Water for you
from heavens to confirm your feet.”
• Before the battle started , both armies appeared as few to each other, but with different outcomes. It
encouraged the Muslims, whereas the makkans became over confident. The battle took place on 17th of
Ramadan, 2AH /624AD. Both the armies arranged themselves in ranks on the Friday morning. Both armies
appeared as few to each other which encouraged the Muslims and made the Makkans over-confident. Aswad
bin Abu Asad was the first of the non-believers to step forward after the war of words but he was killed by
Hamza. Then the duels took place in which Hamza killed Utba, Ali Killed waleed bin Utba. Then they both
assisted Ubaida bin Haris to Kill his opponent Shaiba. Ubaida was the first Martyr at this battle.
• After this the general battle began. According to the Prophet’s (PBUH) instructions, Muslims first shot
arrows at the Makkans men threw stones and lastly fought with swords in their hands. During the battle, Ali
killed Abu Sufiyan’s Son Hanzala, Hazrat Bilal killed his former master Umayya bin Khalaf. When the battle was
heated, Prophet (PBUH) took a handful of dust and threw it at the faces of the pagans saying,” May your faces
be disfigured.” It caused a sandstorm, the Quran says, “ It was not you who slew them ; It was Allah: when
you thrust ( handful of dust) was not your act but Allah’s… “ ( CH 8:V17)
• The Makkans had to face heavy losses and they fled in confusion leaving behind 70 dead and 70
prisoners. Their leader Abu Jahl was injured by two Muslim brothers Ma’uz and Mu’az and then was killed by
Abdullah bin Masood. Abu Bakr, Abdur Rehman bin Auf, Talha etc had formed a defensive ring around The
Prophet (PBUH) A large amount of spoils of war was also captured that was distributed among the Muslims.
Among the to prisoners were Prophet’s uncle Abbas, Hazrat Ali’s brother Aqeel and Prophet’s son in law Abul
Aas. Only 14 Muslims got Martyred , 6 Muhajirin and 8 Ansar.
• The Holy Prophet (PBUH) surprised everyone by treating the captured Meccans honourably. He freed most of
the prisoners on simple terms and conditions. The ones who could pay were freed after they paid their ransom. The
literate ones were freed after a certain period in which each one of them was required to teach 10 Muslim children.
The poor and the old captives were freed without ransom.

4(b) How important was the outcome of this battle for the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers? Give
reasons for your answer. [4]
• It was very important because it was the first battle that the Muslims had to fight after the migration, and so to
lose the battle may have led to a loss in confidence and belief, as well as religious freedom. It also established
Prophet’s position as a military commander and the head of state. Their victory ensured they remained strong
in their faith and renewed their hope in their migration. It also gave them strength in belief that God was with
them. There was an economic benefit to the battle, as the spoils of war allowed a lot of the Muhajirun to
become financially independent.

Battle of Uhad
O/N 2015, M/J [2017, 2021]
3 (a) The Battle of Uhud was fought in the year 625. Describe the main events of this battle. [10]

• After the battle of Badr, Islam gained a firm footing at Madinah and the importance of the city began to increase.
The Quraish considered the rise of Madinah as a threat to their political and commercial interest. Moreover, they
could not forget their defeat in the battle of Badr. Many of their important leaders were killed in the battle, and
they wanted to avenge their deaths. Abu Sufyan, the commander of the Quraish army, went to meet the Jews
of Banu Nazir, who promised help. He also hired their poet Kaab bin Ashraf to write ridiculing poetry against the
Prophet to instigate the Quraish to fight against the Muslims. Another reason of the battle was the capture of
one of their trade caravans by the Prophet’s adopted son, Zaid bin Harith. Meetings were held to raise a strong
army for attacking Madinah . Finally, a fully armed force of three thousand men under Abu Sufyan left Makkah
for Madinah with 200 horses and 3000 camels.
• The Prophet got the news of Makkan army through one of his uncles Abbas bin Abdul Mutlaib.
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) consulted his companions about the best way to meet the enemy. The consensus of
opinion was that the Muslims should go out of Madinah to meet the enemy. Although the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
had a different opinion, yet when the majority insisted on meeting the enemy outside Madinah, he agreed.
• Three miles to the north of Madinah, the Quraish camped near the hill of Uhad. On the way, Abdullah bin Ubbay,
the leader of the hypocrites, left with three hundred of his men on the excuse that the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
had turned down his suggestion of fighting the enemy from inside the city. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) with the
remaining seven hundred men, reached Uhad and also set up camp.
• He posted fifty archers under Abdullah bin Jubair to protect the pass in the Uhad mountain and defend the
Muslims from any possible attack by the enemy from behind. They were given strict instructions not to leave
their post under any circumstances.
 • Several Quraish women accompanied the army of the pagans including Hinda, the daughter of Utba,; Umm-e-
Hakeem, the granddaughter of Abu Jahl, Muslim women also took part for the first time. Among them were
Aisha, Umm Salama and Umm Ammara.
• When the two armies came face to face, Abu Sufyan asked the Ansar to leave for his fight was not with them.
The Muslims, however, stayed united and firm. When the two armies clashed, the Muslim archers fired a volley
of arrows into the cavalry of the Makkans led by Khalid ibn al-Waleed, causing chaos in the ranks. Talha ibn Abi
Talha, who was the flag-bearer of the Makkans, came forward and shouted for a man to meet him in single
combat. Hazrat Ali R.A stepped forward and killed him with a blow. The Makkan standard was taken by Talha’s
brother who was struck down by Hazrat Hamza R.A.
• The battle was fiercely fought and the Makkans were being pushed back and killed. Abu Sufyan narrowly escaped
an attack. The Muslim advance continued until the enemy lines were broken altogether and the way to their
camp was thus laid open. Khalid bin Walid tried to break the Muslims from behind three times but the archers
held him off. Muslims got an advantage and the Makkans started to flee from the battlefield in all directions.
• The archers posted to guard the rear of the Muslim army took this as signal to come down and collect the spoils
of war. Khalid ibn al-Waleed, noticing this fatal error on the part of the archers, and attacked the unprotected
Muslims.
• Panic now set in and despite the Prophet (P.B.U.H) calls, many of the Muslim warriors, who had fought bravely,
rushed for safety to the upper slopes of Uhad. Many, however, stayed and fought; a group of nine Muslims made
a protective shield around Prophet (P.B.U.H) and only Talha bin Ubaidullah and Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas survived.
• The enemy tried to reach the spot where the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) was. He was wounded in the head and face
and lost his teeth. They killed the Muslim flag bearer Musab bin Umair who resembled the Prophet. The enemy
raised the cry that the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) was killed and the confusion increased.
• The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), however, stood firmly and called out to his companions to come back. Ka'ab bin
Malik announced that the Prophet was still alive. When the Muslims saw their leader, they rejoined the battle.
Soon, more support came to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) and a group of his companions moved him to a well-protected
area at the foot of the mountain.
• Now the fighting was less one-sided. The Muslims who had rallied put up a determined fight. Both parties were,
however, extremely exhausted. Soon the fighting died down and each army prepared to leave. Before leaving
Abu Sufyan challenged for a battle next year at Badr and the Prophet accepted his challenge.
• In this encounter 63(70) Muslims were killed and forty injured; while the enemy lost only 22(30) of their men.
Wahshi al Harb killed Hazra tHamzah with a spear. Hinda mutilated the corpse and chewed his liver in order to
avenge the death of her father, Utba, killed in the Battle of Badr at the hands of Hamza.
The Holy Quran mentions this battle in these words:
“Allah did indeed fulfill His promise to you, when you, with His permission, were about to destroy your enemy, until
you flinched and fell to disputing about the order and disobeyed it after He brought in sight ( of the spoils) which you
desire. Among you are some who desire this world and some who desire the Hereafter---.” (3:152)
“Those of you who turned back on the day the two hosts met, --- it was Satan who caused them to fail,---.” ( 3:155)

(b) ‘Success for Muslims depends on their obedience to the Prophet.’ Discuss this statement in relation to
Muslims today. [4]
(b) What lessons might be learned from the outcome of the Battle of Uhud? [4]
• The defeat at Uhud occurred due to the fact that the archers did not obey the Prophet’s command, therefore, Muslims
should obey the Prophet. The rules and guidance of Islam is based on the Qur’an and also the sunna and so to truly
practise Islam the way of the Prophet has to be followed. In battle, Muslims should stick to the rules that the Prophet
gave, like not harming the environment or women and children, and this can give Muslims success as they are
following the commands of God, which they will be rewarded for. In their everyday lives Muslims can obey the
Prophet’s commands as to how to live their lives, in terms of prayer, being good to people, etc., and this will make
them successful in their lives as the guidance given is all for their betterment.
 Week 04
Day 04
Battle of Trench: 5A.H/627AD
O/N 2017, M/J 2020
The Battle of the Trench (Khandaq) was fought in 627. Give an account of the main events
that took place. [10]
• The Jews of Banu Nazir plotted to kill the Prophet pbuh subsequently they were expelled from Madinah and
settled at Khyber. After the and exile from Madinah, they wanted to take revenge from Muslims. A delegation of Jewish
leaders went to Quraish to provoke them against the Muslims and promised them their full support. They gave the same
promise to the tribe of Banu Ghatafan and Banu Sulaiyam. The upper hand of Quraish in the battle of Uhad motivated
the Makkans and all other enemies.
• This time they assembled a large force of 10,000 soldiers under the command of Abu Sufyan. Amongst the
Army:4,000 well-armed foot-soldiers,3,000 horsemen in full armour,1,500 camels loaded with provision,1000 camel-
riding soldiers and several hundred well-armed soldiers of other tribes.
• At the same time horsemen from the Banu Khuza'a left to warn the Prophet of the invading army.
• As usual the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) consulted this companions, In the counsel, he appreciated the opinion of
Hazrat Salman Farsi (RA) who suggested digging a trench around the city of Madinah in order to protect it.
• On three sides of the city, there were rows of houses, orchards and oasis which served as fortification only one
side was unprotected. A trench, five yards deep and five yards wide was dug. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) himself
demarcated the site and worked like a labourer. 3,000 Muslims completed the trench in 20 days. In winter nights, the
Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) and his companions worked sometimes without food for days.
• The Allied forces were confident of an easy and quick victory. They advanced determinedly upon the city. But
they came to an abrupt halt when they found a deep and long trench between them and the city. The trench warfare
was quite unfamiliar to the Makkans and their allies. The Muslims compelled them to stay at an adequate distance from
the trench by hurling stone and arrows at them. Thus, began the siege of Madinah, which lasted for about 27 days.
• There was little food and water; Jabir bin Abdullah invited the Prophet (pbuh) to eat after slaughtering a sheep,
and the prophet fed the whole army with this one animal;
• The Quraysh tried to cross the trench, a couple of riders managed to cross a part that was narrower; ‘Ali fought
them off; On this occasion , Amr bin Abd Wad, an undefeated warrior of Quraish , challenged the Muslims for a duel.
Hazrat Ali accepted his challenged and killed him.
• The hypocrites in the Muslim army, finding the situation dangerous, asked permission from the Holy
Prophet to return to their homes on the excuse that their homes were not safe in this connection the Quran
says, " Behold! A party among them said: "O men of Yathrib! you cannot stand (the attack)! therefore go
back!" And a band of them ask for leave of Muhammad, saying, "Truly our houses are bare and exposed,"
though they were not exposed they intended nothing but to run away.”[33:13]
• At the first Banu Quraiza had refused to support the unbelievers. But later they also came out against
the Muslims and broke their treaty with the holy Prophet. Thus there was a mighty attack on Muslims from all
sides. For this reason, the battle is also called Battle of Ahzab or the battle of Allies. The Quran says, “Behold!
They came on you from above you and from below you, and behold! The eyes became dim and the hearts
gaped up to the throats, and you imagined various thoughts about Allah! In that situation were the Believers
tried: they were shaken as by a tremendous shaking.” (33:10-11).
• The Prophet (pbuh) used strategic skills to create mistrust between the alliances, sending Nuaym bin
Mas’ud to sow seeds of mistrust between the allies.
• A month had passed since the siege began. The Arabs were not accustomed to such a long drawn war.
Their supplies began to run short. Moreover, it was winter with rain and icy cold winds. Because of the shortage
of food, forage and bad weather, a large number of their camels and horses died. ALLAH sent a severe
windstorm to the confederate forces, as well as His angels on a very cold day. The wind blew down their tents
and their cooking gear and the angels threw fear and terror into their hearts. They hurriedly left, leaving behind
all their possessions. - This encounter known as Battle of Tribes (ahzab) / Battle of Trench (khandaq) ended in
disgrace for the Meccans and their strength was broken forever.
- This is referred in the Holy Quran that says, “… Remember Allah’s blessing on you when hosts came down
on you (to overwhelm you) : but we sent against them a hurricane and forces ye saw not, but Allah sees all
that you do” [33:9]
• Finally, Banu Quraiza, the last major tribe left in Madinah, showed treachery in the Battle of Ditch in
627 AD. They broke the treaty with the Muslims, conspired with the Quraish and planned to attack the Muslims
from rear. A siege was laid on their fortresses that lasted for 25 days. After this siege, as a punishment of their
treachery decided by Saad bin Muaaz, around 600 – 700 men from Banu Quraiza were executed and their
wives and children were sold as slaves. The Quran refers to this incident in these words, “And those of the
people of the book who aided them- Allah did take them down from their strongholds and cast terror into
their hearts, (so that) some ye slew, and some you made prisoners . And He made you heirs of their lands,
their houses and their goods----”[33:26-27]

4(b) What can Muslims learn from the Prophet’s involvement in the digging of the trench? [4]
4(b) What can Muslims learn from the Prophet’s conduct in this battle? [4]
• Muslims today learn many lessons from this event.
• The Prophet (pbuh) was the leader of the army and yet he took part in digging the trench, despite his severe
hunger.
• This teaches Muslims that no matter what their position, whether heads of state or community leaders, they
should take part in hard work required for the benefit of the community or others.
• It also provides a lesson in patience and perseverance, and that God will help if you don’t give up.
• It also teaches humility, that you do not think yourself above certain types of work.
• Even if you are in a position of authority or power, you should not think that you cannot take advice from others.
There will often be people who know more than you, or have more experience or wisdom about a subject.
Therefore when you are in need, or have a dilemma, it is good to ask others who know, as the Prophet (pbuh)
would also consult and take advice from his companions.

Treaty of Hudaibiya 6A.H/628 A.D

Background:
• The Prophet saw a dream to visit Kaabah and decided to perform Umra. The Quran says, “Truly did
Allah fulfil the vision for His Messenger: ye shall enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, with minds
secure, and without fear.” (48:27)
About 1400 unarmed Muslims, clad in two sheets of unsewn cloth, departed for Mecca in February,
628 A.D. / 6 A.H.
• The Muslim had left Madina in a State of ihram, so were prohibited from fighting. As the Meccans
refused to allow them to enter, they stayed at Hudabiyah close to Mecca.
• For negotiations with Quraish 2 messengers were sent one after the other but they were detained and
finally Hazrat Usman was sent. When he did not return , a rumour broke out that he was killed.
 • After hearing this, the Prophet called his companions to take a pledge on his hand to lay down their
lives for the sake of Islam and avenge the blood of Hazrat Usman. The Quran says, “Allah indeed was
pleased with the believers, when they swore allegiance to you under the tree and He knew what was
in their hearts, so he sent down peace on them and rewarded them with clear victory.” [48:18]
As this oath was taken for God’s pleasure under a tree, it is known as ‘Bait-e-Rizwan’. Apprehended by this,
the Quraish sent the messengers including Hazrat Usman back.
It also influenced the Quraish into negotiating a treaty. They sent Sohail bin Amr to negotiate a peace treaty.
(TERMS/CLAUSES)
1. -Muslims would return to Madinah that year without performing Umrah.
2. -They would be permitted to come for Pilgrimage next year but would stay only for three days in
Makkah.
3. -If a Quraish from Makkah should join the Muslims without permission from his guardians, he would be
sent back to Makkah. But if a Muslim from Madinah went to Makkah he would not be sent back.
4. -There would be no fighting for ten years.
5. Muslims would be allowed to visit Makkah and Makkans would be allowed to go to Syria through
Muslim area and their trade caravans would not be attacked by the Muslims.
6. -Any of the Arab tribes might enter into treaty or alliance with either Muslims or Quraish.
7. It was also decided that they would not fight against the allies of each other.
After:
• Apparently, the terms of the treaty were against the interest of the Muslims, and many Muslims
including Hazrat Umar were unhappy with these terms. Umar asked why the Muslims were demeaning their
religion and was reassured by Abu Bakr and the Prophet.
• Ali was chosen to write the treaty. When the Prophet asked him to write in the name of Allah, the
merciful, the compassionate or that the Prophet was the Messenger of Allah. Suhail objected and instead the
Prophet erased it and had Ali write in your name O God and Muhammad son of Abdullah to which the Muslims
protested.
• At that point Suhail bin Amr’s sons Abu Jandal came to the Prophet asking to be freed. But the Prophet
kept to the terms of the treaty and told him to be patient. Once they completed the document the Prophet
asked the Muslims to sacrifice their animals and shaves their heads.
• The Prophet said that Muslims had been victorious and was supported in this by new revelation “Verily
we have granted thee a manifest victory”(48:1)
• The Khuza’a tribe made a pact with the Muslims and the Banu Bakr made a pact with the Quraish.

(b) From this event, what can Muslims learn about the importance of keeping their word? [4]
• The Prophet kept his word to the Quraysh for the duration of the treaty. Even before the treaty was finished
being written, he sent Abu Jandal back to the Quraysh, on account of an agreement having been made verbally.
• This shows the importance of promising to do something, then fulfilling that action, even if it has not been put
into writing.
• As all actions and agreements are recorded by angels, God knows what has been promised and by fulfilling
promises, no matter how hard it is, then God will reward you accordingly.
• So, e.g. politicians should not go back on the things they promise when they want to be elected, or people
should not take back something that they have promised to give a friend.
 Week 04
Day 05
Letters to King and Emperors:
Late in the six year after hijra, on his return from Hudaibiyah, the Prophet Muhammad , decided to send messages
to the kings beyond Arabia calling them to Islam. In order to authenticate the credentials of his envoys, a silver seal
was made in which were graven the words: "Muhammad the Messenger of Allâh"
1. Heraclius, the Emperor of Byzantine
The Prophet (p.b.u.h) sent his envoy Dahyah Kalbi to Heraclius, the Byzantine Emperor, inviting him to Islam.
Heraclius wanted to know more about the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and sent his people to find out all they could. Abu
Sufyan happened to be in Ghazzah on a business trip and he was brought to the court. Heraclius asked him many
questions about Prophet (p.b.u.h). Abu Sufyan testified to the morals and the character of the Prophet (p.b.u.h).
When Heraclius heard Abu Sufyan’s answers, he was certain that Muhammad (p.b.u.h) was a prophet of Allah;
however, he did not accept Islam under the influence of his court. He was nevertheless courteous to the envoy and
paid him due respect.
2. Muqawqis of Egypt
Hatib bin abi Baitah (r.a) was sent to Egypt. Muqawqis the king of Egypt was a Coptic Christian. When the king read
the letter, he said that he knew that a prophet was to appear, but according to his knowledge that prophet would
come in Syria. Muqawqis did not accept Islam, however he was courteous to the envoy, and sent gifts to the
Prophet (p.b.u.h) among them were two Coptic Christian ladies named Mariyah and Sirin and a mare. The Prophet
(p.b.u.h) gave Sirin to Hassan ibn Thabit and he took Mariyah as his wife, she was mother of his son Ibrahim.
3. Chosroes, Emperor of Persia
Abdullah bin Abi Hudaifah was sent to Chosroes (Khusrau Pervez), the Emperor of Persia. When Chosroes saw the
name of Allah and Muhammad (p.b.u.h) at the top of the letter, he was furious and tore the letter into pieces.
When the messenger of Allah heard about the Chosroes’ reaction, he predicted that soon his empire would be torn
up. The Persian Empire was spread as far as Yemen, hence Chosroes commanded the governor of Yemen to arrest
the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and bring him to his court. When his men came to arrest the Prophet (p.b.u.h), he told them
that their king was already dead. They were so impressed by the prophecy that they accepted Islam.
4. Negus, Emperor of Abyssinia
Negus, the Emperor of Abyssinia was a Christian ruler. He had earlier given shelter to the Muslims when they
migrated to Abyssinia to escape persecution at the hand of Quraish. Umro bin Ummayyah was sent to Abyssinia to
invite Negus to Islam. He accepted Islam and he showed great respect to the envoy. He also sent presents to the
Prophet (p.b.u.h). Negus died during the lifetime of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and he offered funeral prayers for Negus
when he heard of his death.
5. Abd and Jaifar, the rulers of Oman
Abd and Jaifar, were joint Kings of Oman at that time. The letter was sent through ‘Amr Ibn al-‘Aas. This letter was
sent asking the people of Oman to convert to Islam.”
So in response to the letter, Oman was the first country to convert to Islam without any war. It is said that the Prophet
(peace be upon him) made a prayer for the Omani people that they will never have enemies from outside.”
6. Munzir ibn Sawa, Governor of Bahrain
The Prophet , despatched ‘Al-‘Ala’ bin Al-Hadrami to the governor of Bahrain, carrying a letter inviting him to
embrace Islam. In reply, Munzir bin Sawa accepted Islam and wrote the following letter: "Allâh’s Messenger ! I
received your injunctions. Prior to this, I read your letter, which you wrote to the people of Bahrain extending to
them an invitation to Islam. Islam appealed to some of them and they entered the fold of Islam, while others did not
find it appealing."
7. Harith Ghassani , King of Damascus
Hazrat Shuja bin Wahab was sent to Harith Ghassani, the king of Damascus was very angry at reading the letter. He
ordered his armies to attack the Holy Prophet. Muslims were awaiting his onslaught, but the armies never appeared.

The Expedition of Khyber:

• Some ten weeks after the treaty of Hudaibiya, the hatred of the Jews of Banu Nazir increased to a
greater intensity. The treaty of Hudaibiya led them to think that the Muslims were weak. They
imagined that their acceptance of such terms could be due to nothing but weakness. They, therefore,
got in touch with all those who had agreed to help them in their fight against the Muslims, asking
them to prepare to march towards Madinah.
• When the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) came to know about the proposed plot of the Jews to attack Madinah,
he considered it more proper to go to Khyber swiftly, lest the Jews should seize the chance of advancing
on Madinah. Thus, he set out with 1600 believers from Madinah in the month of Muharram of 7
A.H/628AD and reached Khyber, the strongest and most fortified settlement of the Jews, in three days.
• The Jews were surprised when they saw the Muslims marching on toward Khyber, they immediately
rushed to their fortresses. There were several fortified quarters and 7 big forts in Khyber. Qamus, (An-
Nizar) was the strongest fort whose ruler was the all-Arab famous warrior Marhab, He was considered
to be stronger than 1000 horsemen.
• According to historians, there was a force of about 20,000 Jews in the forts. When the Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H) realized that the Jews were prepared to fight, he ordered an attack. The first battle took place
on the fort called Na’im. A fierce battle took place and the fort was conquered. The Muslims captured
other small fortresses as well, without much difficulty, but when they reached the famous and
impregnable fort of Qamus they found it very difficult to conquer. The fight prolonged to 20 days. Each
day they had to return without success.
• When the Muslims complained to the prophet about their successive failures, he consoled them and
told them that next day he give the flag and command to the person who was dear to Allah, and to
whom Allah was dearer ,and that person would succeed in taking Al-Qamus. Next morning ,when all
were assembled the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) beckoned ‘Ali (R.A) and with his own hands put the amour
on him, handed him the sword and staff ,and sent him forth as the commander of the Muslim troops
for that day.
• Seeing Muslims under the command of Hazrat ‘Ali (R.A) , Marhab came out of the fort and invited Hazrat
‘Ali (R.A) for a combat. The fight took place between Marhab and Hazrat’ Ali (R.A) in which Hazrat , Ali
(R.A) killed him in the first attack. Then a fierce battle started, and the Jews were forced to give in and
the fort was captured by the Muslims. Ali is said to have moved a door by himself which would have
taken many men to move.
• With the fall of Qamus, the gardens of Khaybar now came under the control of the Muslims and they
allowed their Jewish owners to continue working the land in exchange for an annual rent of half their
harvest. The Jews realized that the end must come. They requested the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) to grant
them peace on the condition that they would pay him half the produce of their lands. Their lives,
property women and children were left untouched. Abdullah Ibn Umar reported “The Prophet
(P.B.U.H) made a deal with people of Khaybar that they would have half the fruits and vegetation of
the land they cultivated.”
Spoils of war fell into the hands of the Muslims. Besides vast stores of dates, oil, honey and barley,
flocks of sheep and herds of camels, the spoils in treasure and jewels was very large.
(b) Explain why it was important for the Muslims of Madina to fight in it? [4]
• As peaceful settlements were not accepted, the Prophet had to carry out a military campaign to
prevent further disruptions upon the Muslims from these parts, as they did not want to be continually
fighting in minor skirmishes. It was therefore a matter of survival for the Muslim community.
• Had they not fought, it could have led to insecurity as they would not have known when the next attack
would come from there.
• It was also important as God had promised them abundant spoils from this campaign (sura 48.20). The
Quran says, “Allah has promised you abundant spoils which you shall acquire. He has instantly
granted you this (victory) and has restrained the hands of people from you that it may be a Sign for
the believers and He may guide you to a Straight Way.”

Battle of Mu'tah
• This battle took place in Jumada Al-Ula 8 A.H. / September 629 A.D. Mu'tah is a village that lies on the
borders of geographical Syria.
The Prophet (pbuh) had sent Al-Harith bin 'Umair Al-Azdi to carry a letter to the ruler of Basra. On his way, he
was killed by Sharhabeel bin'Amr Al-Ghassani, the governor of Al-Balqa' and a close ally to Caesar, the
Byzantine Emperor. The Prophet (pbuh) was shocked on hearing the news and ordered that a large army of
3000 men be mobilized and dispatched to the north to discipline the transgressors.
• Zaid bin Haritha was appointed to lead the army. Ja'far bin Abi Talib would replace him if he was killed,
and 'Abdullah bin Rawaha would succeed Ja'far in case the latter fell. A white banner was raised and handed
over to Zaid. The Muslim army then marched northward to Syria. Heraclius had mobilized a hundred thousand
troops together with another hundred thousand men from Arabian tribes allied to the Byzantines.
• Zaid bin Haritha assumed leadership and began to fight tenaciously and in matchless spirit of bravery
until he fell, fatally stabbed. Ja'far bin Abi Talib then took the banner and did a miraculous job. In the thick of
the battle, he kept on fighting until his right hand was cut off. He seized the banner with his left hand until this
too was gone. He then clasped the banner with both arms until a Byzantine soldier struck and cut him into two
parts. 'Abdullah bin Rawaha then proceeded to hold up the banner and fight bravely until he too was killed.
• The honour was unanimously granted to Khalid bin Al-Waleed. The Muslims from the back were asked
to come to the front to give the impression of reinforcements, then they gradually retreated to save lives. The
Byzantines, thinking they had to fight a renewed army did not come forward again, which allowed the battle
to end and consequently the Muslims managed to retreat to Madinah with the slightest losses. The Muslims
sustained twelve martyrs, Even though the battle did not satisfy the Muslims' objective, namely avenging Al-
Harith's murder, it resulted in a far-ranging impact and attached to the Muslims a great reputation in the
battlefields.
 Week 04
Day 06
Conquest of Makkah (630AD)
• After the treaty of Hudaibiyah, Banu Bakr entered into an alliance with the Quraish, while Banu Khuza,a made a
pact with the Messenger of Allah.
Two year after Treaty of Hudaibiyah, Banu Bakr, the allies of the Quraish attacked the Banu Khuza,a, the allies of
Muslims. Quraish helped the Banu Bakr by providing them weapons. Some Quraish leader also fought alongside
Banu Bakr secretly at night. Banu Bakr Killed several men of Banu Khuza,a. The Chief of Banu Khuza,ah with a
party of forty men came to Madinah to seek help and protection. The Prophet (p.b.u.h) demanded from Quraish
to accept any of the three alternatives:
i. To pay Blood money to the families of the murdered men of Banu Khuza,ah
ii. To dissolve their alliance with Banu Bakr
iii. To dissolve the treaty of Hudaibiyah

The Quraish opted for the third alternative but soon realized that they were no match for the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and
sent Abu Sufyan to settle the affairs.
• Abu Sufyan the visited his daughter Umm-Habiba, one of the wives of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) but she refused to
do anything for him. He then went to Abu Bakr, Umer, Uthman and Ali (R.A) one after another, but they too
refused to mediate on his behalf. Then he went to the Mosque of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and announced that the
Quraish would guarantee peace and protection to all, but the Prophet (p.b.u.h) rejected his offer.
• The Prophet (p.b.u.h) prepared an army of ten thousands Men: he maintained complete secrecy, to Prevent
Quraish from making alliance with their neighbouring tribes. The Prophet (p.b.u.h) set out for Makkah on 10th
Ramadan 8th A.H/630AD. The Muslims camped outside Makkah. The Prophet (p.b.u.h) ordered his followers to
light up torches outside their tents. The sight of fires magnified the size of the Muslims army, the Quraish were
demoralized. Abu Sufyan ibn Harb to spy and was captured and brought to Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h. At the point,
he embraced islam.
• Before entering Makkah the Prophet (p.b.u.h) proclaimed that whosever remained in his own house would be
safe, whoever was in Ka,bah would be safe even those who entered the house of Abu Sufyan would be safe.
Thus, safely was guaranteed even to the worst enemy of islam.
On entering Makkah, the Prophet (p.b.u.h) told his army not to use arms against any one, unless they met with
resistance or were attacked. He ordered them to avoid bloodshed: and commanded them not to harm the old,
the women and the children.
• He divided his army into four columns; each column was assigned a specific part of Makkah to capture. The
Muslims entered peacefully. The column of Khalid Bin Waleed was showered with arrows and fought back;
thirteen men from the Quraish were killed while two Muslims embraced martyrdom.
• The Prophet (p.b.u.h)) went to Ka,bah and performed Tawaf. He went inside and prayed. Then he purified it,
there were about 360 idols in Ka,bah, he destroyed them, while doing he recited, ‘’And say the truth has come
and falsehood has banished. Surely falsehood is bound to parish’’ (Al-Isra 17:81)
• A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout Makkah. The Prophet (p.b.u.h) then assembled the Quraish near
mount Safa and delivered a sermon.
At the end of the sermon, he asked them, ‘’ O people of Quraish what do you think i will do with you?’’ They
replied,(we think you will treat us) well, noble brother, son of noble brother, He said “I shall speak to you as
Yusuf [Joseph] spoke to his brothers, “there is no reproach against you today; God will forgive. He is the most
merciful and the most Compassionate.” (Yusuf 12:92)
And he added , “no more responsibility burdens you today, Go, for you a free”
 • He also forgave his personal enemies e.g Hinda, Wahshi etc. Abu Jahl’s son Ikramah was also forgiven. The
Quraish were greatly impressed by the mercy and forgiveness of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and accepted Islam. The
Quran says regarded the Conquest of Makkah, ‘’When comes the help of Allah and victory and see people
entering the religion of Allah in throngs’’ (Al-Nasr 110:1-2). The Prophet (p.b.u.h) stayed at Makkah for about
nineteen days during which is made arrangement for the administration of Makkah.

(b) Can Muslims today learn from the Prophet’s treatment of his former enemies? Give
reasons for your answer. [4]
• Yes, they can learn from his treatment of his former enemies because the Prophet (pbuh) forgave those who had
shown a lot of enmity towards him, such as Abu Sufyan.
• In following this example, Muslims can forgive those in their life who call them names, abuse them, or try to stop
them from doing good, especially if they are sorry for what they have done. A grudge should not be held against
them.
• In Makka the Prophet (pbuh) forgave everyone except including those who had killed his family members such
as Wahshi and Hind.
• Muslims should realise that forgiveness is always a better option than revenge. They should not take revenge
despite having the power to do so.

The Battle of Hunain

• The victory of Makkah in 8 A.H/630AD which came forth as a consequence of a swift blow astonished both the
Arabs and other tribes. The ruling of Ta’if, Banu Saqif and warrior tribes of Banu Hawazin were still enemies of
Islam. Malik bin Awf the general leader decided to march and fight the Muslims. Alliance force of 20000 men
was prepared and they camped in the hills of Awtas to the south east of Makkah. The Banu Hawazain and Banu
Saqif encamped in the valley of Hunain and posted theirs archers covering the pass in the valley which the Holy
Prophet and his forces must cross before they could reach the other side.
• The Muslim army was twelve thousand in number, including two thousand newly converted Makkans. Seeing
how great number the Muslims set out on this expedition with extreme confidence that mounted to over
confidence. Some of them said, “ We shall not be defeated.” This statement was not liked by Allah. It is said in
the Holy Qur’an, “Truly Allah has given you victory on many battle fields, and on the Day of Hunain (battle)
when you rejoiced at your great number, but it availed you naught and the earth, vast as it is, was straitened
for you, then you turned back in fight. Then Allah did send down His calmness and reassurance on the
Messenger ( Muhammad), and on the believers, and sent down forces (angels) which you saw not, and
punished the disbelievers. Such is the recompense of disbelievers.” (Surah-Al-Tauba 09 : Verses:25-26)
• As the Muslims advanced, they were met with showers of arrows from all sides, while the main portion of
Hawazain’s army attacked them from the front. The Muslims could not stand the fierce attack so they fell back.
It caused a terrible disorder among the Muslim army. They fled from the battle field and a small band of followers
firmly stuck up with the Holy Prophet.
• At that moment, the Holy Prophet said at the top of his voice, “Truly saying, I am the Prophet; I am the (grand)
son of Abdul-Muttalib.” (Al-Tabari)
These words had desired effects. Muslims uttered “Labbaik! Labbaik!” (Here we are at your service. Here we are).
They jumped off their camels ad horses and attacked the enemy in all fury. Both of the armies stood fast and
fought fiercely. The Holy Prophet threw a handful of dust at the face of enemy saying, “May your faces be
disfigured.” Their eyes were thick with dust and the enemy began to retreat in utter confusion.
• They fled and left their women, children and cattle. because their leader Malik bin ‘Awf had told everyone to
take their families and belongings with them, the Muslims captured huge spoils of war which consisted of 24000
camels, 40000 sheep and 40000 Oqias (ounces) of silver. About seventy men of Banu Saqif were killed and six
 thousand were prisoners. The prisoners were sent to the valley of Jiranah and the Prophet chased the fleeing
enemy.
• After this event the Prophet(pbuh) laid siege to Taif and after some time people of Taif embraced Islam.
Consequently the Prophet(pbuh) freed the prisoners and returned the spoils. Thus, his prayer for the people of
Taif was granted by Allah.

Tabuk Expedition
• The Relationship between the Muslims and Christians were strained since the battle of Mutah. The Byzantines
were afraid of the growing power of Arabia and the spread of Islam. The emperor Heraclius collected a large
force to attack Madina. When the Prophet (P.B.U.H) learned about the preparation, he gave a call for jihad.
• The time of the expedition was unfavourable as there was drought and famine in Arabia. The summer was
extremely hot. The date crop was ready to be harvested. The Arabs tribes were hesitant to fight the Byzantines
whom they considered very powerful and it was a long journey through a barren desert.
• Besides, the Hypocrites, under the leadership of Abdullah bin Ubay spread discontentment and fear amongst
the Muslims. They made excuses not to accompany the Messenger of Allah and said that they feared the enemy
and the intense heat. Allah said of them, "Those who were left behind rejoiced in staying behind the Messenger
of Allah and were against struggling with their possessions and their selves in the way of Allah. They said go
not forth in the heat, say the fire of hell is hotter, did they but understand"(9:81).
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) asked for donations and charity for the preparation of the expedition. The Muslims made
great contribution, Abu Bakr R.A gave all his possessions, Umar gave half his property, while Uthman gave 900
camels and 100 horses, and a 1000 gold dinars. Women donated their ornaments. On this occasion, the Prophet
(pbuh) appointed Hazrat Ali as his deputy in Madina and said, “You are to me as Haroon was to Musa(A.S) except
there will be no Prophet after me.”
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) gathered an army of 30000 and marched to Tabuk in Rajab 9 A.H. After 7 days of journey,
the Muslims reached Tabuk. When the Romans heard of Muslims advanced with such a huge force, they
withdrew from border towns, and dispersed. the Prophet (P.B.U.H) did not pursue them in their own territory.
• He sent small expedition against various Christians and Jew Rulers in the neighbourhood. Many Christians tribes
entered into alliance with the Muslim and came under their protections and agreed to pay Jizyah. In return, the
Prophet (P.B.U.H) guaranteed them the security of their boarders and territories as well as safety of their
caravans and their ships traveling by land and see. He returned to Madinah after staying in Tabuk for 20 days.
• The Conspiracy to kill Messenger (saw) by the hypocrites was always there, even on the way back from Tabuk.
Abu Qatadah was there to protect him. There was a group of hypocrites ready to kill the Messenger (saw), they
said let us kill him (saw). Twelve of them gathered and conspired to hit the Messenger’s mule, near the valley, so
that he would fall down and be killed. Hudaifah bin Yaman and Abu Qatadah saw that the Messenger (saw) was
close to edge. Hudaifa went and held the reins of the Messenger’s mule. The hypocrites went to make noise and
unsettle the mule while the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was passing through the mountain road, Allah said, regarding this
"They swear by Allah that they said nothing (evil) but indeed they uttered disrespect and they did it after
accepting Islam and they meditated a plot which they were unable to carry out."(9:74)
• This was the last military expedition the prophet(pbuh) took part.
(b)From these battles, what can be learnt about good leadership skills? [4]
• Good leaders should be determined and not want to give up, especially when they are fighting for a
cause they believe in.
• They should not give all the responsibility to others but should take as much responsibility as they can
themselves.
• Leaders should have strategic skills that would allow them to change tactics in order to win a battle and
that it can be important to save lives rather than carry on fighting.
• It is also important to stay calm in the face of adversity.
 (b) The Battle of Tabuk became a mission of peace instead of war. What can Muslims learn from
this? [4]
• The Prophet (pbuh) had set off to fight the Byzantines. They did not show, and so there was no war. The Prophet
(pbuh) made treaties with people along the border. Some lessons Muslims can learn could be:
• Muslims should favour peace over fighting
• Muslims should fight in defence just as the Prophet (pbuh) did, preferring to make peace with those in
neighbouring regions
• Showing unity could help remove the need to fight. *Elaborate with present day example

Final Year of Prophet’s(pbuh) Life

The Holy Prophet (pbuh) performed his farewell pilgrimage in 10 A.H/631 A.D. The news was sent to the desert tribes,
and people gathered from all directions to accompany Prophet (P.B.U.H) at every step of this event. The actions of the
Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) during this farewell pilgrimage, established the rituals of the Hajj forever. The Prophet (pbuh)
performed the Tawaf of the Kabah on 8th Zilhajj and afetr spending the night at Mina he went to Arafat where he delivered
the Hajj sermon at the plain of Arafat on Jabal-al-Rahma (The Mount of Mercy) on 9th of zilhajj. He addressed about
1,14,000 companions. The subjects dealt with in this Farewell Sermon lay down the essence of what the holy Prophet
(pbuh) had taught during his lifetime. It explains the basic duties of Islam and one of the most important teachings is that
the Holy Prophet (pbuh) says he leaves the Quran and his Ahadith as the foundation upon which Muslims should lead
their lives.
The Holy Prophet (pbuh) told about his impending death and asked everyone to listen attentively. He warned the Muslim
Ummah against the evil practices of pagan hood, declaring Satan as the open enemy of the believers. He told about the
sanctity of life and property. The Holy Prophet (pbuh) emphasized upon fulfilling the rights of Allah by worshipping Him
alone and by performing the pillars of Islam.
“ Behold, worship your Lord; after praying 5 times a day; observe fast in the month of Ramadan; pay Zakat on
your property; and perform pilgrimage to the House of Allah.”
The Holy Prophet (pbuh) taught about the equality of all mankind. He said,
“All mankind is from Adam and an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor has a non-Arab over the Arab. Similarly,
no white has superiority over the black; nor have a black over white; except by piety and good action…..you are all the
children of Adam, and Adam was made of mud.”
Prophet (pbuh) also said that every Muslim is a brother to another Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one
brotherhood. He declared that the taking of interest (riba) was completely forbidden.
He emphasized on the rights of women especially as wives and also the kind treatment slaves.
“O people! You have rights over your wives and your wives have rights over you. Treat your wives with
kindness. Verily, you have taken them on the security of Allah and made them lawful unto you by the words
of Allah. And feed your slaves as you feed yourselves and cloth them as you cloth yourselves. If they commit a
fault which you are unwilling to forgive, then sell them.”
The holy Prophet (pbuh) also reminded the Muslims about their obligation of transmitting his teachings to future
generations “Let him who is present tell it to him who is absent.”
The religion and his prophet hood were completed .
On this occasion, he received the last revelation, “This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor
upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (5:3)
After that, he arrived at Muzdalifah and performed his fourth, Maghrib, and fifth, Isha, prayer. At the break of dawn, he
returned to Mina to carry out the ritual of the Stoning of the Devil then ordered the sacrifice of the sacrificial animals
that he had brought with him. He then returned to Makka, performed another tawaf and then spent the three days of
Tashriq in Mina. It set a precedent for the rites and rituals of Hajj that are to be performed by Muslims. He visited
Khadija’s grave before leaving Makkah.
 On his return to Madinah, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) organized the provinces and tribal communities. He appointed
officers to collect Zakat from the newly converted tribes and people of the Peninsula. Meanwhile many more
deputations arrived at Madina to accept Islam. the Prophet (P.B.U.H) also ordered Usama ibn Zaid ibn Haritha to lead
an expedition to Syria.
• Two month after his return to Madina the Prophet (P.B.U.H) fell ill with headache and fever. He remained sick
for about two weeks. At first, he performed all his duties as usual and led the prayers. On the fifth day of his illness, he
retired to the apartment of Hazrat Aisha with the consent of his other wives.. When he became two weak, he appointed
Hazrat Abu Bakr to lead the prayers.
• On the last day of his life, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) called for Fatima, Hassan and Hussain. He told her about his
impending death but when she cried she told her that she would be the first from his family to join him in paradise, then
she smiled. He came in the mosque supported by his attendants, and joined the congregational prayer behind Hazrat
Abu Bakr when Abu Bakr heard him coming , he tried to retreat but Allah’ Apostle asked him to carry on. The Prophet
(P.B.U.H) sat on his left side. After the prayer, He begged forgiveness from his hearers, and exhorted them to follow the
path of Allah,
• Then he advised the Muslims to be careful about the rights of Ansar and to treat them well. He ordered to shut
all the doors that opened to the mosque accept door of Abu Bakr House he said “be watchful about your five daily
prayers and rights of your women and servants.”. He warned the Muslims not to worship his grave. He had some cash
with Hazrat Aisha which he gave away as alms. Aisha said, “His last act was cleanings of his mouth with a brush made
of a soft branch of a tree and his last words were, “now, none but he the companions on high is needed.”the Prophet
(P.B.U.H) died on Monday June 8th 632AD, 12th Rabi ul Awal 11 AH. Everyone was stunned with grief.
The Prophet (P.B.U.H) was buried in the same place where he had died; in the house of Aisha, his funeral prayer was
performed in batches his family members including Hazrat Ali and Abbas bin Abdul Mutlib lowered him in his grave.

(OPTIONAL)Hazrat Umar was so shocked that he drew out his sword and declared that he would kill anyone who said
the Prophet had died. When Abu Bakr learned about the death of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) after ascertaining the fact, he
said, “O People! Lo as for him who worshipped Mohammad, Muhammad is died but as for him who worshiped Allah,
Allah is alive and dies not. Then he recited the following words of Quran, “ Muhammad is no more than an apostle..
Many were the apostle that passed away before him. If he died or were slain will you then turn back on your heels? A
–Imran(3:144)” .

(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]
The last sermon is considered a summary of the main elements of faith, as it includes the five pillars, equality of
humankind, ethics and morality. It can be used in many modern day issues such as racism, inequality of women, the
financial structure (dealing in interest), adultery, responsibility of actions (particularly in crimes), treating other Muslims
as brothers, treating slaves/servants well, and worshipping God.

Relations with Non - Muslims

When the Holy Prophet (PBUH) migrated to Madinah in 622AD, he treated all parts of the Madinan society equally.
After the construction of the Mosque, Masjid-e-Nabvi, he devised the covenant of Madinah as an agreement with
three Jewish tribes in which privileges and responsibilities were given.
• The agreement stated that the law of Allah would be the law of land and granted complete religious freedom.
Madinah would be a city of peace for both parties and both would enjoy the same security and equal rights. It further
stated that the Muslims and the Jews would be allies and would not fight against each other. Moreover, in case of
an attack on Madinah, both would assist each other to defend it. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) will decide all the disputes
and his decision would be final.
• The Prophet (pbuh) engaged in commercial dealings with them and gave and received help from them. He
sometimes borrowed money from Jews and also arranged for loans from them for some of his companions: one day
 a Jew caught hold of the cloth the Prophet(pbuh) was wearing and demanded that he repay the loan he had taken
from him. ‘Umar, got angry with the Jew and scolded him. The Prophet (pbuh) then ordered that the loan be repaid
to the Jew, and because ‘Umar had scolded him the Prophet (pbuh) insisted that he be given more money than what
he had actually been owed.
However, the Jews gradually distanced themselves from the Holy Prophet (PBUH). They persistently mocked the
revelations he received from God, and doubted his claim to Prophethood. They openly made fun of him especially
when the Qibla was changed and tried to humiliate him in different ways.
• The relationship between the Jews and the Muslims deteriorated when a Muslim woman was subjected to public
humiliation by a Jew of Banu Qainuqa who pinned her skirt in a public place. He was killed by a Muslim and other
Jews killed that Muslim. When this news reached to the Holy Prophet (PBUH), he laid a siege to their fortress. This
siege continued for 15 days after which the Holy Prophet (PBUH) expelled them from Madinah in 624 A.D.
• Another setback to the relationships between the two was when the Jewsish poet of Banu Nazir Kaab bin Ashraf was
executed for violating the charter of Madinah by instigating the Quraish to attack Madina before the Battle of Uhad.
In 4 A.H, 626 AD Banu Nadir attempted to kill the Holy Prophet (PBUH) by throwing a huge mill stone on him when
he went to take from the blood money for some purpose according to the treaty. They were asked to leave within
10 days. However, they left after the siege of 14 days with as much as they could carry in 626 AD.
• Finally, Banu Quraiza, the last major tribe left in Madinah, showed treachery in the Battle of Ditch in 627 AD. They
broke the treaty with the Muslims, conspired with the Quraish and planned to attack the Muslims from rear. A siege
was laid on their fortresses that lasted for 25 days. After this siege, as a punishment of their treachery decided by
Saad bin Muaaz, around 600 – 700 men from Banu Quraiza were executed and their wives and children were sold as
slaves. The Quran refers to this incident in these words, “And those of the people of the book who aided them-
Allah did take them down from their strongholds and cast terror into their hearts, (so that) some you slew, and
some you made prisoners . And He made you heirs of their lands, their houses and their goods----”[33:26-27]
• Apart from the Jews remained the Madinans who did not become sincere believers. Quran says, “when it is said to
them, come to what Allah has revealed and the messenger, you see that the Hypocrites avert their faces from you
disgust.”[4:61]They were the hypocrites whose leader was Abdullah Bin Ubbay. They showed their disloyalty most
strongly by withdrawing when the Quraish’s attack led to Battle of Uhad in 625 AD. Abdullah Bin Ubbay withdrew
with 300 of his men saying that he did this as the Prophet rejected his advice of fighting from inside the city. They
deserted their posts in the Battle of Trench in627 AD saying their homes were not safe. In addition to this, they
provided secret information of the Muslims to the Makkans and the Jews. They did not make any financial
contribution in Tabuk expedition 631 AD. After Abbdullah bin Ubbay’s death in 631 AD many of the hypocrites
repented and became true Muslims.
• the Prophet (pbuh) sent letters to various non-Muslim rulers inviting them to Islam. The Christians of Najran visited
the Prophet (pbuh) in Madina to talk to him and ask questions. They then signed a peace treaty. The Prophet (pbuh)
allowed them to pray their prayers in the mosque.
• The relations between the Muslims and the Makkans were strained after migration and the Prohet decided to block
the trade routes to Syria which led to the battle of Badr. After Badr ,Uhad and trech were fought. Treaty of hudaibiya
ended hostilities but the Makkans violated the treaty in 630 AD, which led to the conquest of Makkah. At that time
the prophet treated his non Muslim enemies with kindness, mercy and forgiveness and did not take revenge despite
having the power to do so.
3 (b) How can Muslims now apply the lessons learnt from the Prophet’s interaction with non-
Muslims? [4]
• Non-Muslims were respected by the Prophet (pbuh) and invited to Islam. If they did not accept it they were left
to live their lives freely under their own faith.
• Muslims now can learn from this by inviting non-Muslims to Islam by teaching them about the essentials of faith.
If they do not want to accept Islam then they should not be harassed or hurt, but rather respected and looked
after. For example, minorities living in Pakistan i.e Christians, Sikhs, Hindus etc. Quran says, “Let there be no
compulsion in religion.”
 • Muslims who kill people from other faiths because they do not believe in Islam, are going against the example of
the Prophet (pbuh).
• Muslims should also enter into agreements with non-Muslims to ensure both sides live amicably and do not have
their freedoms taken away by the other side. This allows both parties to know where they stand and do not have
to live in fear.

Relations with other states

O/N 2005
3 (a) Describe three examples from the life of the Prophet that show the relations between
the early Muslim state and other states. [10]
The first Islamic state in Madinah was established in 622AD and was governed by the Holy Prophetpbuh. It was
founded in a part of the city but it spread very fast and became the capital of a vast Muslim empire. The system of
administration established by the Holy Prophetpbuh lasted for centuries a source of inspiration for later generations.
Relations between two sovereign states are governed by an agreement if one exists between them. The Islamic
state has been enjoined to follow the terms of the agreement. The best example was provided by the Holy Prophet pbuh
at the time of the Treaty of Hudaibiya 6AH/628AD. According to the treaty, the Holy Prophet pbuh had agreed to return
any Muslim who came to them and one such Muslim did arrive as the agreement was being written. The Holy Prophet pbuh
told him to go back to Makkah as he had already agreed to the treaty. This shows that all obligations undertaken by the
Muslim state should be fulfilled and treaties concluded between the Islamic state and other states should be honoured.
This is binding as long as the other party remains faithful to its obligations and honours its treaties. The following saying
of the Holy Prophetpbuh shows how honestly he kept his word with individuals and nations. He said: “ If anyone wrongs a
man with whom a covenant has been made, or curtails any right of his, or imposes on him more than he can bear, or
takes anything from him not in the agreement, then I shall be his adversary on the Day of Resurrection.” ( Mishkat)
After the treaty of Hudauibiya, during the period of peace, the Holy Prophet pbuh sent letters to various emperors and
kings in 7AH/629AD inviting them to Islam. Special mention in this connection maybe made of Najashi of Abyssinia, who
had given protection to Muslims to Makkah. The Christians of Najran also concluded a peace treaty with the Holy
Prophetpbuh. The Holy Prophetpbuh received envoys from Egypt, Abyssinia, Byzantine and other neighbouring states and
treated them as official representatives of their government. He was very strict in maintaining cordial political relations
with neighbouring tribes and states and always received their envoys and deputations with great respect. He himself
looked after them and served them during their stay in Madinah.
In 8 AH/ 630AD, the Makkans and their ally Banu Bakr violated the treaty of Hudaibiya by attacking the Muslim ally tribe
Banu Khuza’a. Despite this, the Prophet pbuh gave them the alternatives in order to maintain peace and avoid bloodshed
but the Makkans chose to dissolve the treaty. When the Holy Prophetpbuh entered Makkah after its conquest, he asked
its inhabitants what treatment they expected of him. He did not order them to be killed, confiscate their property or take
them as slaves. The Holy Prophetpbuh said: “Today, there is no blame on you, there will be no retribution; go, all of you
are free.” The effect of this pardon was so great that the entire population of Makkah embraced Islam. The Holy
Prophetpbuh words converted them from deadly foes into devoted and sincere followers.
These examples of the Holy Prophetpbuh throws light on his desire to have good and friendly relationships based
on equity and justice with other states and to live in peace as good neighbours.

Qualities (Model of Excellence)

 O/N 2012
 3 (a) Describe three qualities of the Prophet Muhammad that make him a model for
humankind. [10]
 M/J 2014
 3 (a) The Prophet Muhammad is said to have been patient and trustworthy. Write about events
in his life that illustrate these qualities. [10]
  O/N 2015
 3 (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]
 M/J 2016
 3 (a) The Prophet was described as humble and just. Giving examples from his life, write about
events that describe these qualities. [10]
 M/J 2017
 4(a) Write about events from the Prophet’s (pbuh) life that show his qualities of generosity,
honesty and simplicity in action. [10]
 O/N 2018
 3(a) Giving at least four examples from his life, write about the ways in which the Prophet
Muhammad showed generosity and humility. [10]
O/N 2019
 3(a) The Prophet (pbuh) was generous and forgiving `1. Write about events from his life that
demonstrate these qualities in action. [10]
Intro:
The Prophet (P.B.U.H) is an excellent model for the Muslims to follow in all walks of life. He had an ideal character and
conduct. Allah testified to his character. “And you stand on an exalted standard of character “ (Al Quran 68:4).Again
Allah says “you have indeed in the Apostle of Allah a beautiful pattern of conduct. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) manners were
ideal, he said, “Allah sent me to complete the excellent virtues and to perfect the good manners.” Aisha R.A was asked
about the habits of Prophet (P.B.U.H) she replied, “His habits were in accordance with teachings of Quran.”
Muslims should take the life of Prophet (P.B.U.H) as a model for themselves in every sphere of life and should mould
their character and personality according to it.
1. Patience and perseverance
Prophet (P.B.U.H) passed through a period of great distress and hardships at Makkah. He bore all the difficulties with
patience and never complained about them. Inspite of the ill treatment of his enemies, he always treated them kindly
and never cursed them. He endured the persecutions of the Quraish until he was forced to leave Makkah,
• When the Prophet’s opponents greatly increased their persecution, his companions asked him to curse them. At
this the Prophet replied:“I have not been sent to lay a curse upon men but to be a blessing to them”
His opponents continued to treat him and his companions unjustly and cruelly, but he always prayed for them.
• In the early Makkan period when the enemies of the new religion far exceeded the Prophet’s companions in
number, it often happened that when the Prophet would stand to pray, his foes would come near him and whistle and
clap in order to disturb him, but the Prophet would not even once show his anger at such acts. He always opted for the
policy of tolerance and avoidance of confrontation.
• In one instance when the Prophet was praying at the Ka’bah while his enemies were watching his every move
and action, one of his adversaries put on his back the intestine of a slaughtered camel during his prostration. The Prophet
did not react and stayed in that position. His daughter, Fatimah, rushed to take the filth off his back and cleaned him up.
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) went to Taif to invite them to Islam, but Banu Saqeef refused to listen to him, they abused
him and pelted him with stones. He took shelter in the shade of a wall of a garden outside Taif and prayed to Allah, at
that time the angel Jibrail said, “Allah has heard the way your people have responded. He has, therefore, sent this angel
in charge of the mountains. You may command him as you please. Then the angel of the mountains greeted and
submitted, If u like I would overturn the mountains from either side upon these people. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
replied, no but I expect that Allah will create from their children those will worship none but Allah, the one.”
later, they attacked Madinah, and fought many battles with him but he bore all their aggression with patience. His
conduct was exemplary which finally made him victorious.
 2. Honesty and Trustworthiness :
Prophet (P.B.U.H) was honest and truthful. He was a poor orphan who started trade with his uncle, but in short period;
he became well known and respected. He was known as Al-Sadiq (the truthful) and Al-Amin (the trust worthy).
• When the dispute arose among the various tribes of Makkah as to who should lay the Black Stone, they decided
the one who entered Ka’bah the next morning would place it. They were very pleased when Muhammad (P.B.U.H)
happened to enter the Ka’bah the next morning as they trusted him for his honesty.
• When Muhammad (P.B.U.H) was elevated to Prophet Hood the Quraish abused him, called him mad, bewitched
etc, but never called him a liar. Abu Jahl his bitterest enemy often said, “Muhammad, I do not say that you are a liar,
but what you say I do not think right.” (Ibn Ishaque)
When Allah commanded the Prophet (P.B.U.H) to invite his people to Islam. He called the Quraish at the mount Safa
and said, “If I were to tell you that any enemy was advancing to attack you from the back of the hill, would you believe
me?” They said, yes, we have always known you to be truthful. However, when he invited them to Islam, they turned
away.
• Khadijah married him because of his high morals and honesty. Khadijah was a wealthy widow, who used to send
her merchandise to other countries. When she heard about Muhammad’s (P.B.U.H) truthfulness and trustworthiness,
she sent for him and proposed that he should take her goods. He came back with double the profits that she normally
used to get. She was so impressed by his high character that she proposed marriage to [Link] of Makkah used to
keep their belongings with him for safe keeping. At the time of migration, though his life was in danger he entrusted the
belongings of people to Ali (R.A.) before leaving Makkah.

3. Humility and Simplicity:

Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H) was a simple man. He was unceremonious and informal his habits. He ate whatever was
available, wore coarse cloths. His bed consisted of a blanket and a pillow of date fiber covered with leather. He ate bread
made from coarse flour, and spent days on dates only. He sat on floor, bare ground or a mat, without any hesitation even
when he was the ruler of Madinah.
It is reported “Allah’s messenger Muhammad (P.B.U.H) used to patch his sandals, sew his garment and conduct himself
at home as anyone of you does in his house.”
• His companions used to stand up to show respect to him when he appeared in their midst but he forbade them saying,
“Don’t stand up for me as the unbelievers do to show respect to others.”
He lived humbly all his life and never boasted of his social or political status even after his success at Madina. There are
many incidents of his humility reported by his companions and recorded in history books. Anas said that Allah’s
messenger used to visit the sick, accompany funeral and accept the invitation of slaves.
• It is reported by Anas that when Allah’s messenger performed pilgrimage he kept on reporting.
“O Allah! make this pilgrimage, a pilgrimage without pretence and fame.”
His companions had a great deal of love and respect for him. However they did not stand up when he entered a room,
as he disliked it. He did not wish to be treated as a ruler.
• Someone asked Hazrat Aisha about the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) life at home. She replied that he did household work.
He mended clothes and shoes, milked the goats and swept the house. He shared and ate his meals with the slaves and
the poor. He sat with the needy and the destitute in such a way that no one could tell the difference between him and
poor people. When he went to an assembly, he sat wherever he found place.
• When he was entering Makkah as a conqueror, he was not proud or boastful like a worldly conqueror. An expression
of humility and gentleness was on his face and he lowered his head in such a way that it touched the saddle of his
camel.
• It is reported by Hazrat Umar the he heard the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) say: “Do not praise me as the Christians
praise the son of Mary. I am a servant of God, call me a servant and messenger of God.” Another one of his companions
reported him as saying, “Allah has revealed to me that you must be humble, so that no one boasts that he is better
than other.”
The Prophet (P.B.U.H) always lived in a humble way and taught his followers to do the same. He lived the life of an
ordinary human being and showed by his own example, how to live humbly, even in greatness
 4. Justice and equality:
Prophet (P.B.U.H) was a just man; he never considered himself above anyone. He sat among people like ordinary man;
worked liked that ordinary labourer with his companions in the construction of Mosque of Madinah. He also
participated in digging the trench around Madinah with other Muslims at the time of battle of Allies.
• Once the Muslims were on journey everyone took charge of doing a certain duty. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) took
charge of collecting wood from jungle.
• Abbas the Prophet (P.B.U.H) uncle and Aaszainab’s husband were taken prisoners during the battle of Badr. They
were treated the same way, the other prisoners were treated. The companions asked the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) to free
them without taking ransom, but he refused to treat them differently.
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) treated people with fairness and never discriminated between Muslims and non-Muslims
in matter of justice. The Jews used to come to him to have their disputes settled,. A Muslim went to Khyber and was
killed by the Jews his son complained to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) he said, “If you swear as to who has committed the
murder, you will have the right to take your right from the murderer. They said, How should we swear if we did not
witness the murder or see the murderer?” The Jews were the only people who lived in Khyber and there was no doubt
to the fact that they had killed the man, but since there was no eyewitness, the Prophet (P.B.U.H)did not ask them
anything; and paid the blood money from the state treasury.
• Once a woman from an influential tribe of Makkah stole; the Prophet (P.B.U.H) order her hand to be cut. Usama
bin Zaid approached the Prophet (P.B.U.H) on behalf of the woman. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) said, “the people before you
were destroyed because they used to inflict the legal punishments on the poor and forgive the rich. By God! if my
daughter Fatimah did that , I would cut off her hand”.
• In administering justice, he made no distinction between believers and nonbelievers, friends and foes, high and
low. Once a Muslim and a Jew had a business dispute, when the matter was brought to the Prophet (pbuh) he decided
in favour of the jew.
5. Generosity
Generosity means giving freely without expecting anything in return. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) liked
generosity as one of the quality of believers and has encouraged Muslims to show a generous attitude towards every
needy persons. During the month of Ramzan, he would give away so lavishly as to leave hardly anything for himself. He
never kept money with him overnight. If he had anything left, before nightfall he would give it to the needy and destitute.
If he came across someone who was starving, he would give him hi meal and remain hungry himself.
• Once a man who had embraced Islam asked the Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) for some goats and sheep.
It so happened that at this time the holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) had recently being given great abundance of
these animals. He gave the man so many that they filled the space between to hills.
• The Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) was once given 70,000 dirhams, which he began to distribute among the
beggars soon the whole amount was exhausted. After all the beggars had departed and old man came and asked for
alms. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) had nothing left to give but he did not want to send the man away empty-
handed. He therefore, borrowed something from another and gave it to him.
• When Prophet (pbuh) returned a debt he gave more than he [Link] a Jewish man came to demand back
the money the Prophet owed him, he grabbed the Prophet by the collar. ‘Umar got angry at the Jew, but the Prophet
smiled. He asked for the debt to be repaid and extra given due to the harsh treatment by ‘Umar. Even when he asked
for water from a woman to drink, he gave the water skins back with more water in them as well as some food.
• He was also generous with his prayers, praying for those who hurt him rather than asking for their destruction,
e.g. at Ta’if and Uhud.
6. Mercy and Forgiveness
• Forgiveness is to not have anger, or to show kindness to someone who has wronged you. Prophet (P.B.U.H)
never took revenge from anyone and always forgave even his bitterest enemies. Hazrat Aisha said that Prophet
(P.B.U.H) never returned evil for evil, but would always forgive and pardon. The Quraish rebuked him, taunted
and mocked at him, beat him and abused him. They even tried to kill him. When the persecution and
 aggression of the Quraish became unbearable, his companions requested him to curse them but the Prophet
(P.B.U.H) said, “O Allah! Forgive my people for they know not.”
• After the Holy Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) migration to Madinah the Quraish waged many wars against him. In the Battle
of Uhad, when his head and face were injured his companion asked him to curse them, but he said that he was
not sent to curse people but to invite them to path of Allah.
• When Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) conquered Makkah, he did not take revenge, but forgave everyone. Even Abu
Sufyan was forgiven and anyone who took refuge in his house was also forgiven, Similarly, the Abyssinian
slaveWahshi al Harb who had killed Hazrat Hamza in the Battle of Uhad, Hinda, who had torn out his liver and
Ikrimah ibn Abu Jahl were forgiven.
• The people of Taif, who threw stones at the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) when he visited that town in order to invite
them to Islam, and the Jews of Madinah who were always engaged in hostile activities against the Muslims, were
also forgiven by him.
• Abdullah bin Ubbay, the leader of hypocrites, worked all his life against the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) and Islam. He
was continuously involved in intrigues with the chiefs of Makkah to wage war against the Muslim. In the Battle
of Uhad, he deserted with three hundred of his supporters, thus weakening the Muslim army. Yet, after his death,
the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) prayed to Allah to forgive him.
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) was an example of forgiveness and kindness, as mentioned in the Holy Quran: “Hold to
forgiveness; command what is right (7:199)”
7. Fulfilment of Promises
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) fulfilled his promises. He was always held in such trust that people left their valuable with
him for safe keeping.
• When the king of Rome received a letter from the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) inviting him to Islam, he called the Arab
traders who were than visiting his country. He asked some questions about the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) from their
leader Abu Sufyan, who was at that time, one of the bitterest enemies of Islam. One of the questions was whether
the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) had ever broken his promise. Abu Sufyan replied that he had never broken his
promise.
• One of the conditions of the Treaty of Hudaibiya was that if any Muslim from Makkah went to Madina, he would
be returned. When the Treaty of Hudaibiya was being written. Abu Jandal, bound in chains, escaped from Makkah
and came to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) asking for refuge. The Muslims were shocked to see him in this condition,
but the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) said to him “O Abu Jandal! be patient, we cannot break the Treaty. Allah will
very soon find a way for you”. He was returned to people of Makkah.
• Two companions of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) while coming from Makkah were caught by the unbelievers. They
were released on the condition that they would not fight on the side of the Muslims in the battle of Badr. They
came to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) and informed him about the incident. The Muslims were very few in number
and needed more men to fight against the unbelievers; but the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) said “Both of you must
go back; we will keep the promise under all circumstances.”
By always keeping his promises and contracts the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) set an example for all mankind.

Seal of Prophets
The long line of the prophets started with Adam and finished with Muhammad (S.A.W). The life and teachings of the
prophets before Muhammad (S.A.W) have been altered, adulterated or lost by their followers, besides their teachings
were incomplete and did not provide complete code of life necessary for a successful prosperous life. These messengers
were appointed for particular people or country, and a particular period of time. And their message was only for those
people and not a universal message. Muhammad (S.A.W) is the last all of the prophets. Allah says “Muhammad is not
the father of any of your men, but he is the messenger of Allah, and the seal of the prophets’’ (Al-Ahzab 33:40) The
prophet (S.A.W) said, ‘’There will no prophet after me.’’ (Agreed) In other tradition, he said ‘’My relation to the long
lines of the prophets can be understood by the parable of a building. The building was most beautifully built.
Everything was complete there in except the place of one brick. I have filled the place and now the building has been
complete.’’ (Bukhari, Muslim)
The prophethood of Muhammad (S.A.W) is distinguished in many ways:-
The religion of Islam brought by the prophet (S.A.W) is a perfect religion and deals with all the aspects of human
life i.e. Political, economic, ethical, legal and social aspects, it is perfect in all respect, Allah says, “This day I have perfected
your religion for you, completed my favours upon you and have chosen for you islam as your religion.” (Al-Maidah 5:3)
It is a universal message for a entire mankind. Muhammad (S.A.W) was not sent down for any particular country or nation
but to the whole world, Allah says, “And we have not sent you (Muhammad!) save as a bringer of good tidings and a
warner to all the mankind.” (Saba 34:28) Again he says “we sent you not (O Muhammad) but as the mercy of the
world.” (AL-Anbiya 21:107) The prophet (S.A.W) said “Every prophet who preceded me was sent especially to his own
people, but I have been sent as a prophet to all mankind.” (Sahih Bukhari)
The prophethood of the prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) is eternal.
The message of Muhammad (S.A.W) has been preserved in the Qur’an. It is unchanged, Allah promised to safeguard it,
Allah says, “we have without doubt sent down the reminder, And we will certainly guard it.”
The details of life and sayings of Muhammad (S.A.W) are also recorded and preserved.
 1

Week 05
Day 01
First Islamic Community
Muhajirin and Ansar
M/J 2015
4 (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]
O/N 2018
4(a) The Prophet Muhammad migrated to Madina from Makka. Write about the Ansar and the
Muhajirun and the way they helped each other.[10]
M/J 2019
5. (a) In Madina, the Helpers (Ansar) and Emigrants (Muhajirun) were made brothers. Give an account
of the main developments of his relationship. [10]
O/N 2022
4 (a) Write an account of the first actions taken by the Prophet (pbuh) to establish a Muslim
community in Madina. [10]
Answer (Learn and write):
• When the Prophet (pbuh) first arrived in Madina, the people were happy to see him and wanted
him to stay with them. First of all he established the place for the first mosque and was then
involved in its construction. Azaan was also introduced.
• Muhajaririn or the emigrants were those followers of Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) who migrated
from Makkah to Madinah with, before or after him. Some of them even left their families behind.
The Prophet (p.b.u.h) described them as favourites of Allah who will receive a splendid reward as the
Quran says: “ Those who believed, emigrated and fought in the cause of Allah with their wealth
and their lives are greater in rank in the sight of Allah. And it is those who are the attainers [of
success].” [9:20]
And “God will be well pleased with the first emigrants and helpers and those who followed them
in good deeds, and they will be well pleased with Him.” [9:100]
• Ansar or Helpers were the Muslims of Madinah, mainly from Aws and Khazraj tribes, who received
and helped the prophet (p.b.u.h) and emigrants. They were also called Ansar-un-Nabi, or Helpers of
the Prophet. They were good natured, soft spoken and pious people who were devoted to the holy
Prophet (p.b.u.h).This is confirmed by the Holy Quran in the following words: ‘’But those who before
them had homes (in Madinah) and had adopted the faith, showed their affection to those, who
came to them for refuge and entertain no desire in their hearts for things given to the emigrants,
but gave them preference over themselves even though they themselves were poor.’’ [59:9]
Some Ansar specified an amount for their Muhajir brother to inherit and happened until the verse was
revealed “Blood relatives are nearer to one another regarding inheritance.” [8.75]
• The holy Prophet (p.b.u.h) assembled them at the house of Anas five months after migrating to
Medina and told them that the Muhajirin had left all their belongings in Makkah and was now
penniless and shelter less. He, therefore wanted to create the relationship of Brotherhood between
the Muhajirin and Ansar. He appointed ninety Muslims, the forty-five of whom were from the Ansar
and the other forty-five from the migrants, as brothers.
According to this foundation of brotherhood established, leaders of each family in Medina would
provide a Muslim family from Mecca with accommodation and share their belongings with them,
and they would work together.
 2

• The Prophet did not choose two Muslims to become brothers randomly. Contrarily, he investigated
them carefully and appointed the best matches as brothers. For instance, there was an exact
harmony between Salman al Farisi and Abu’d-Dardaa; Ammar and Khuzaifa; Mus’ab and Abu
Ayyub, in terms of character, likes, and feelings. The emigrants tried their best so as not to be a
burden on anyone.
On this occasion, the prophet (pbuh) took Hazrat Ali as his brother and said, “You are my brother in
this world and in the hereafter.”
• Sa’d bin Rabi and Abdur Rahman bin Awf were made brothers and Sa’d was willing to share half
his property and divorce one of his wives for Abdur Rahman to marry. He refused, saying ‘direct me
to the nearest marketplace so that I may make my fortune with my own hands.’
The next morning, Abdur Rahman bin Awf, who was taken to Qaynuqa’s market, bought some
goods such as oil and cheese and started the trade business. After a while, he earned a fair income
and then became one of the well-known tradesmen of Medina.
• Many other Muslims of Mecca found appropriate jobs for themselves and lived happily by their
own work, like Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Awf e.g Abu Bakr made a living by farming.
• The Ansar wanted to share their date palms with the Muhajirun but the Muhajirun refused, so the
Ansar offered them to work in their orchards and in return they were given dates. In this way the
Madinans gave protection and material assistance to their Makkan brothers and the Makkans came
with their faith to share and spread in Madina.

4.(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]
4(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]
Muslims should look to people coming to their country and neighbourhood from other places, especially if
they have had to leave their belongings behind, e.g. from Afghanistan, Kashmir or Syria. There are many
ways one can share their good fortune with others. If they have a business, they can offer jobs to those
who need them. If they have spare rooms in their houses, they can offer them as accommodation to
people who have not yet found a place to stay. They can share some of the food that they cook, or buy
some groceries for them, so they do not have to spend from their own money. Giving up extra items has
more reward than keeping them and will create better relations in the community.

(b) How might Muslims today follow the example of the community in Madina to make
their own communities stronger? [4]
• Muslims should try to establish a sense of brother/sisterhood in their communities, e.g. when
people move into your area you could welcome them and share food with them. If you know they
are in need of a job you can try to help them find work or offer them a job, if possible. You can try
to ensure they have what they need and give them the information they need to settle into their
new surroundings. If you are moving to a new place you should get to know your neighbours and
keep good relations with them. If they do not share the same faith as you it’s important to live in
harmony with those of other religions. In return, you should not take advantage of the generosity
of others, or rely on others so much that you burden them.
Scribes of Divine Revelation:
M/J 2014, M/J 2017
5 (a) Write briefly about the tasks carried out by the Scribes of the revelation at the time
of the Prophet. [10]
• Scribes of the Prophet (pbuh) were among the closest companions, They not only kept a record of
revelations but also wrote letters and treaties as commanded by the Prophet(pbuh). They were the
 3

four rightly guided Caliphs, Abu Bakr, Umar, Usman, and Ali, who accompanied the Prophet
(pbuh)from his childhood and was a memorizer of Quran. He also wrote the terms of Treaty of al-
Huadaibiya.
• The Qur’an was written in its entirety during the Prophet’s time even though it was not compiled in
one text. There were various scribes who had different roles as companions, who wrote the verses
down on a number of materials. These included animals skin, shoulder bones of camels, palm leaves,
stone tablets and pieces of wood etc.
• Some of them were official scribes who wrote letters for him (for example Ubayy ibn Ka’ab) whilst
some became scribes because they kept their own personal copies of the revelations (for example
‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr ibn al-‘As. He sought the Messenger’s specific permission asking, ‘May I write
down everything I hear from you in the states of contentment and anger?’ He replied, ‘Yes, for I
speak nothing but the truth.’). A number of companions had their own personal copies of the words
of the revelations, which were later used to verify the one copy in the time of Abu Bakr. Companions
who kept a private record of the text of the Qur'an satisfied themselves as to the purity of their record
by reading it out to the Prophet.
• The Prophet used to instruct the scribes about the sequence in which a revealed message was to be
placed in a particular Sura (chapter). In this manner, the Prophet arranged the text of the Qur’an in
a systematic order till the end of the chain of revelations. Zayd ibn Thabit reported, “We used to
record the Qur’an from parchments in the presence of the Messenger of God.” There was always a
scribe on hand to write down the revelation or to insert new ones revealed to Holy Prophet under
Divine guidance through angel Jibrael during 610AD to 632AD. This is mentioned in Quran,
“(written) by the hands of the scribes honourable, pious and just.”(80:15-16)
• Zayd bin Thabit, one of the chief scribes relates: "I used to write down the revelation for the Holy
Prophet, may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. When the revelation came to him he
felt intense heat and drops of perspiration used to roll down his body like pearls. When this state
was over I used to fetch a shoulder bone or a piece of something else. He used to go on dictating
and I used to write it down. When I finished writing the sheer weight of transcription gave me the
feeling that my leg would break and I would not be able to walk anymore. When I finished writing,
he would say, 'Read!' and I would read it back to him. If there was an omission or error he used to
correct it and then let it be brought before the people."
Some companions, who did not write down the revelations, had memorized them instead and their
versions were used to verify the written copies after the Prophet’s death.

5.(b) Explain the importance of the principles employed by the compilers of the Qur’an at
the time of the Caliphs. [4]
After the Prophet’s death there was deemed a need to compile to Qur’an into a book form. Various principles
were employed, all of them to ensure authenticity to the original message.
• The Qur’an was compiled in the dialect of Quraysh because it was the original dialect –other dialects
could have been fabricated or distorted. Zayd bin Thabit gathered written materials from various
companions, and checked all these versions with those who had committed the Qur’an to memory –
this was to ensure that none of the written copies had anything added or omitted and so that the
Qur’an remained authentic to the way the Prophet had received [Link] order of the suras was not
complied in the order that the Prophet had received revelation, but generally in order of descending
length – this was due to the belief that the order of the suras was divinely ordained and the main
scribes would have known this.
M/J 2022
5 (a) Write about the various tasks performed by some of the Prophet’s Companions as
his Scribes. [10]
Answer [Learn and write]
 4

• There were a number of Companions who acted as scribes of the Prophet (pbuh) and they each had
different tasks, such as writing the revelation, recording public contracts and transactions, and letters
sent from the Prophet (pbuh) to other leaders. The Qur’an was completely written during the
Prophet’s time even though it was not compiled in one text. There were various companions who
had different roles as scribes. They wrote verses down on a number of materials, for example,
parchments, bone and dried leaves.
• The Prophet (pbuh) used to instruct the scribes about the sequence in which a revealed message was
to be placed in a particular sura (chapter). In this manner, the Prophet (pbuh) arranged the text of
the Qur’an in a systematic order till the end of the chain of revelations. Zayd ibn Thabit reported, ‘We
used to record the Qur’an from parchments in the presence of the Messenger of God’. Some
companions, who did not write down the revelations, had memorised them instead and their
versions were used to verify the written copies after the Prophet’s death.
• Zayd ibn Thabit belonged to the Khazraj tribe in Madina. He was one of the most prominent scribes
of the revelation, writing the revelation while the Prophet (pbuh) was alive, subsequently having
most of the Qur’an in written form. He was asked by the Prophet (pbuh) to learn Hebrew so he could
respond on the Prophet’s behalf to the Jews who wrote to him. Some of the Companions were official
scribes who wrote letters for the Prophet (pbuh) and treaties.
• Ubayy ibn Ka’ab belonged to the Khazraj tribe in Madina. He had memorised the Qur’an and is said
to have had his own written portions of the Qur’an, and wrote letters to heads of state for the
Prophet (pbuh). The last verse of the Holy Quran revealed in 10 A.H. is said to be written down by
him. His recitation of the Quran was so beautiful and his understanding so profound that the Holy
ProphetPBUH encouraged his companions to learn the Quran from him. He possessed his own copy of
the sacred text.
• ʿAli bin Abu Talib memorized the Quran during Prophet’s lifetime. He was also an important scribe
and wrote treaties for the Prophet (pbuh), such as the Treaty of Hudaibiyya.
• Abdullah ibn Mas’ud was one of the earliest scribes. After embracing Islam, he gave up all other
business and would always remain present in the service of the Holy Prophet PBUH. He was known for
his knowledge of the Qur’an because of his close association with the Holy ProphetPBUH. He was one
of the companions named by the ProphetPBUHas one from whom the others should learn the Quran.
The Holy ProphetPBUH also said: “ If anyone likes to recite the Quran as fresh as it had descended
then he must recite it on the reading of Abdullah bin Masud.” He was someone who wrote portions
of the Qur’an.
• ʿAbdullah ibn ʿAmr ibn al-ʿAs was one of the first companions to write the Prophet’s sayings. He
sought the Messenger’s specific permission asking, ‘May I write down everything I hear from you in
the states of contentment and anger?’ He replied, ‘Yes, for I speak nothing but the truth.’ He had a
book/journal that he kept to record the Hadith from the Prophet (pbuh). Due to this he is one of the
main narrators of Hadith. Abu Hurayra said, none of the Sahaba would narrate more Hadith from me
except ʿAbdullah ibn ʿAmr ibn al ʿAas – he would write them down more than me.

(b) What are the benefits of the Qur’an being available to everyone on the internet? [4]
It is a useful source to have the Qur’an online as it makes it more accessible to more people. There is a lot
of information easily available on the internet, so it is possible to do a few searches and find a lot of
sources available for you to read on different topics of the Qur’an. The Qur’an and most Hadith books are
all online now, so people can easily access the information they need. People who cannot read the Qur’an
can access different recitations of it, or people who have just learned to read Arabic can use it to follow
along while listening to a recitation. The Qur’an online can be in the language of the person reading it.
 1

Week 05
Day 05
Zaid Ibn Harith
• Zayd ibn harith (RA) belonged to an influential family, he was kidnapped when he was young and sold as a slave.
A nephew of Khadijah bought him in Syria and he gave him to his aunt Khadijah (RA), who gave Zayd to the
Prophet (S.A.W).
• When the Prophet (S.A.W) invited people to Islam, Zayd was amongst the first four people to accept Islam.
• When his family came to know about his whereabouts, his father and uncle came to the Prophet (SAW) and
offered to buy Zayd (RA). The Prophet (S.A.W) gave Zayd the choice to go with his father or stay with him.
However, Zayd (RA) refused to go back to his family and preferred slavery to freedom. The Prophet (S.A.W)
adopted Zayd (RA) as his son and hence he came to be known as Zayd ibn Mohammad.
• Zayd (RA) came to be called by the name of his father after a revelation came which commanded that adopted
sons must be called after their fathers.
• Zayd (RA) was married to Umm Aiman, the slave girl of the Prophet (S.A.W) whom he had set free. They had a
son named Usamah ibn Zayd .
• He accompanied the Prophet during visit to Taif and got injured while protecting the Prophet(pbuh).
• Zayd migrated to Madinah, later the Prophet sent him to Makkah to bring his wife Sawdah and daughters umm-
Kulthoom and Fatimah to Madinah.
• He accompanied the Prophet in all his battles namely the battle of Badr, Uhad and Trench. He was also present
when the Treaty of Hudaibiyah was concluded.
• The Prophet married his cousin Zaynab bint Jahsh to Zayd bin Harith (RA). However, the marriage was not
successful and Zayd (RA) divorced Zaynab after one year.
• Zayd bin Harith was martyred in 8th A.H in the battle of Mautah.
Jafar bin Abu Talib
• Hazrat Jafar was the son of Abu Talib and elder brother of Hazrat Ali. He along with his wife embraced Islam in
its early stages.
• He was among the second batch of emigrants to Abyssinia. They were pursued by the unbelievers of Makkah
who requested Najashi king of Abyssinia to hand over the emigrants to them. The King summoned the Muslims
to his court and asked them about their religion. The Muslims had selected Hazrat Jafar as their spokesman. He
delivered a speech in which he explained the principles of Islam and what the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) taught
them. He also recited portion of Surah Maryam. After hearing it, Najashi said, “By God this and the Gospel are
the lights of one candle” thereafter, Najashi dismissed the unbelievers in his court and assured the Muslims that
they may reside peacefully in his country.
• He went back to Madina in 7 A.H. When Khyber was conquered, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) gave him a piece of
land near Masjid al Nabwi and kept him close to himself.
• The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)sent an army to Mutta in Syria in 8 A.H. Hazrat Jafar was included in the army. Hazrat
Zaid bin Harith was the commander of the army. In case of his death, he was to be succeeded by Hazrat Jafar.
HazratJafar was martyred in the battle. He received ninety wounds on his body and lost both his hands. The
Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)said,“Allah has granted him two wings in place of his two hands so that he flies about
in paradise wherever he likes ”He is called JafarTayyarJafar the flier.
• Hazrat Jafar took great care of the poor and needy. Hence, he was known as Abul Masakeen. He resembled the
Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)in features and habits. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)himself said “You resemble me in
features and manners.”
(b) To what extent do ‘Ali and Zayd’s relationships with the Prophet provide models for family relations
today? [4]
These stories can tell Muslims that it is not just immediate relations that are important, and that Muslims should look
after other family members as well. ‘Ali was not his son but the Prophet looked after him like he was, and so if there is
a need in your family, then it is encouraged to help family members by treating their children the same as you would
your own, rather than giving your own children better things than other relatives. Adoption is also important in Islam
and candidates could write that adopted children are to be given the same treatment in the family as other children.
 2

Although God later changed the inheritance of adopted children, their treatment within the family should be like your
own children.
Salman al-Farsi
• Hazrat Salman R.A the Persian, was born in Persia to a wealthy man who was overprotective of his son, never
allowing him out of his mansion. Hazrat Salman belonged to the Zoroastrian faith and was assigned the duty of
keeping the ceremonial fire burning in the family home.
• Out of curiosity to see the outside world, he left home and happened to come upon a group of Christians singing
during their worship. Fascinated by the vibrancy of his faith, he converted to Christianity and settled in Isfahan. Yet
his quest for religious knowledge took him to Syria, where he heard from some priests about the coming of a new
prophet in Arabia, and also the signs that would distinguish this prophet. He made his way to Arabia and en route
was captured and sold in slavery.
• When the Prophet (P.B.U.H) arrived Yathrib and Salman-Al-Farsi heard accounts of him, he was keenly interested
and attended one of his gatherings. Each sign he had been told about was present in the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
and thus Hazrat Salman accepted Islam.
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) secured him his freedom, and he served the cause of Islam well. It was his advice to encircle
Madina with a trench to protect the city that saved the oasis from the Makkan attack at the time of the war by the
tribes that had united against Islam, the Prophet (P.B.U.H), and the Muslims. This came to be known as the Battle
of Khandaq (Trench) and also as Battle of Ahzab (Trench).
• Hazrat Salman was one of the top officers who conquered the Persian Empire in the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar R.A
and, upon his death was buried there.
Mu’adh bin Jabal
• He was a boy in Yathrib when the Prophet (P.B.U.H) sent Musab bin Umair to preach Islam to the people of the
oasis after the first pledge of Aqabah. Hazrat Mu’adh R.A accepted the new faith and in the following year, he
travelled with the seventy or so Muslims of Yathrib to make the second pledge of Aqabah.
• On returning to Madina, he started a youth association to convince idol worshippers to give up their practices.
Several influential people of the city accepted Islam on account of his efforts.
• After the Prophet (P.B.U.H) migrated to Madina, Hazrat Mu’adh became one of his close companions and
learned the Quran so well that Prophet (P.B.U.H) declared him to be one of the four who should be sought out
for learning the Quran.
• The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) also mentioned him as an expert in issues related to law, and later, he was sent by
the Prophet (P.B.U.H) as an ambassador to Yemen.
• According to a Hadith of the Prophet pbuh , Muadh will be the leader of Muslim scholars on the day of
Judgement.
• The Holy Prophet is reported to have said about him. “ The most learned of my Ummah about the lawful and
the unlawful is Mu’az bin Jabal.” (Tirmizi)
• Mu’az bin Jabal returned from Yemen during the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakr and accompanied Usamah bin Zaid
on the expedition to Syria.
• He died of Plague in 18 A.H. while he was in Syria.

Position of Women in Islam

As Wives:
• Both the Quran and Sunnah have laid great emphasis on men to be kind and gentle with their wives. Wives are
equal to their husbands. They are partners with their husbands in family life. They are primarily responsible for
the home.
• They have financial independence The Holy Quran says, “Men are the protectors and maintainers of women
because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other and because they support them from their
means.” [4:34] This verse makes it clear that husbands have to provide sustenance to their wives, clothe them
and house them.
• Abu Hurairah relates that the Holy Prophet pbuh said, “The best amongst you is he who is most kind to his
wife.”(Tirmizi).
• In case of more than one wife, man is enjoined to treat all of them equally. He said on the occasion of Farewell
pilgrimage, “O people! You have rights over your wives and your wives have right over you. Treat your wives
with kindness.”
 3

• Similarly she is given right to seek divorce (Khula).

• It is the duty of the husband to pay dower (Mehr) to his wife at the time of marriage. Allah says, “And give the
women (on marriage) their dower as a free gift.” (an-Nisa 4:4)
• Woman can keep her property acquired before marriage and she has no legal obligation to spend on her family
out of her personal wealth. It is the duty of a man to fulfill her material and financial needs.
• Both husband and wife must decide family matters with mutual consultation.
• The Prophet (p.b.u.h) loved his wives. Khadijah was his first wife; His love for her was so great that he did not
marry again during her lifetime. He never rebuked his wives for any of their shortcomings. During his last illness,
when he became very sick he ask his wives for permission before staying in ‘Aishah (R.A) house. He helped his
wives in their daily chores.
As Mothers:
• A woman’s position as a mother is unique in Muslim society. They have the main responsibility for bringing up
children. They are the first teachers of faith and proper conduct.
• The Holy Quran and the Holy Prophet pbuh have given special importance to the mother and stressed upon
the children to be more considerate, submissive, grateful and obedient to her in comparison to the father.
They deserve respect from their children because of what they have done for them.
• Abu Hurairah relates that once a person asked the Holy Prophet :“O Messenger of Allah, who is the most
deserving person to get good treatment from me?” He replied, “Your mother.” When he asked this question
this for the fourth time, the Holy Prophet said: “Your father.” This hadith indicates that the status of the
mother is greater than that of the father (agreed upon).
• A companion of the Holy Prophet once asked his permission to take part in Jihad. The Prophet asked him if his
mother was alive. On getting the answer in affirmative, the Prophet asked him to go home and serve her as
“heaven was under her feet”(Ahmad, Nasai). This means that to respect, obey and serve the mother is the
key to heaven. In doing so, we shall be able to please Allah and the Holy Prophet.
• The Prophet (pbuh) did not spend a lot of time with his mother yet he had great love for her and always
remembered her. In the last year of his life, on his way perform the farewell pilgrimage, the Prophet (pbuh)
stopped at Abwa at the grave of his mother and wept there by remembering her.
As daughters:
• According to the teachings of Islam, daughters are to be treated with love and care. They should always be
allowed freedom in legitimate choices.
• They have a right to their parents’ legacy. In this connection, the holy Prophet is reported to have said, “If one
brings up three daughters, teaches them good manners, and treats them kindly, till they no longer need his
help, Allah will make paradise obligatory for him.” A companion asked, “what if he has two?”. He replied,
“and he too.” The reporter of this hadith said that if people had inquired about one, the Prophet would have
said the same thing .
• Daughters should be cared for as carefully as sons. Abdullah Ibn Abbas related that the Holy Prophet said, “If
anyone has a baby daughter and does not bury her alive, nor ignores her, nor prefers his sons to her, Allah
will bring him into paradise.”
• Prophet pbuh had great affection for his daughters, especially his love for Hazrat Fatima is a model of fatherly
love for daughters. He is reported to have said, “Fatima is a part of me, whoever hurts her hurts me, whoever
holds malice against her, holds malice against me”. When she visited him in his last illness, he gave her his own
chair to sit.
(b) What do these teachings tell us about the relationship between men and women? [4]
• The Islamic society is governed by a sense of both individual and collective responsibility to Allah who has
defined the limits for human behavior. There are certain principles to govern the interaction of sexes. Free
social mixing between men and women is not permitted unless it is for some serious reason or purpose.
• When mixing does take place, both men and women are to exercise proper decorum in the way they speak
and behave.
• Women are advised not to display themselves in public and not entertain or talk unnecessarily to men who
are not their close relatives.
• A Muslim man and woman are not permitted to be alone together unless they are close relatives (Mahram).
 4

• Both Muslim men and women should observe modesty. The Quran says, “Say to the believing men that they
should lower their gaze and guard their modesty…..and say to the believing women that they should lower
their gaze and guard their modesty….” (24:30-31)
• In marriage, husbands and wives must try their best to live with love and affection and show respect and
kindness to each other even in disputes. Where family matters are concerned, decisions must be taken with
mutual consultation and not force.

Hazrat Abbas ibn “ Abd-ul Muttalib was also an uncle of the Prophet (P.B.U.H). Even
though he did not accept Islam in its early days, he provided protection to his kinsmen. it is believed that
he accepted Islam after the Battle of Bader, but did not profess his faith until just before the conquest of
Makkah. He joined the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) army and participated in the conquest of Makkah, the Battle of
Hunayn, and the siege of Ta’ if . Hazrat Abbas defended Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) at Hunayn when
other warriors deserted him. After these military exploits, he brought his family to Madina and the Prophet
(P.B.U.H) was a frequent visitor to their home.
Hazrat Abbas also used his vast resources and wealth to support Islam, and it was his descendants who
founded the Abbasid Dynasty, which was the seat of power in the Muslim world from 749 to 1258. His son,
‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas, spent time around the Prophet (P.B.U.H) as a boy, and grew up to be a celebrated
scholar of Islam and the Qur’an.

Imam Muhammad Mehdi:

Imam Muhammad Ibn Hassan was born in 255 AH in Iraq. He is also known as Imam Muhammad al
Mahdi. After the death if his father, Imam Hassan Askari, he became the twelfth Imam and went into hiding
or occultation (Ghayba). For a period known as the lesser occultation, he continued to communicate with
his followers through his four deputies to whom he appeared only in exceptional circumstances. But from
the year 329 AH/941 AD he no longer communicated and the period of greater occultation began. This
period extends to the present, and will continue until the end of time, when the Imam will reappear publicly
before the final judgment.
He is believed to have continuing oversight over the affairs of the world. Among Shia Muslims, he is known
by such titles as “The Lord of the Age” (Sahib al Zaman) and “The Awaited Imam” (Al Imam al Muntazar) and
the “Proof of the Truth” (Hujja). He is also known as “The Guided one” (Al Mahdi), because when he returns
at the end he will be guided to defeat the forces of evil under the Dajjal and establish justice on Earth.
The belief in the figure “The Mahdi”, who will appear at the end of time, is shared by all Muslims. There are
a number of Ahadith referring to him and the events in which he will take part. but only the Shia Muslims
identify him as the twelfth Imam.
 1

Week 05
Day 02
Imamat (Spiritual Leadership)
M/J [2009,2012] O/N 2022
4 (a) Write about the lives of the Prophet’s grandsons: Hassan ibn ‘Ali and Hussain ibn
‘Ali. [10]
during prophets life Hasan Ibn Ali(RA)
• He was the first son of Hazrat Fatima(RA) and Hazrat Ali (RA).He was born in Medina in 3AH/625 AD.
• He was given his name by the Holy Prophet pbuh himself. There are stories of the Prophet pbuh
allowing him and his brother to climb on his back while he was prostrating prayer, and interrupting
his sermon to come down from the Minbar(pulpit) to pick him up when he tripped over. These show
the love Hazrat Muhammad pbuh felt and the pride he took in his grandchildren. Prophet (pbuh)
once said, “O Allah ! I love him, so I beg you to love him.”
during • In the years following the death of the Holy Prophet pbuh we hear of Hasan and Husayn being sent
caliphates by their father to take water to Hazrat Usman when he was besieged by his opponents, before his
assassination in 35AH/656AD. And during Hazrat Ali’s caliphate, Hasan was sent to Kufa to seek
reinforcement during the struggle with Talha, Zubair and Hazrat Aisha. He was among his father’s
force in the battle of Siffin.
• After the assassination of Hazrat Ali in 40 AH/ 661AD, his supporters proclaimed Hasan as the Caliph.
But Muawiya, the Governor of Syria rejected this and moved forces against him. Hasan reacted slowly
as imam to this threat, may be because he was reluctant to fight against fellow Muslims, and his own forces
(spiritual hesitated. His position became increasingly weaker, through desertions to Muawiya’s side, and Hasan
leader) finally renounced the Caliphate after less than a year in the office.
• He settled in Medina, where he died in about 50AH/670AD, at a relatively young age. Many say that
he was poisoned by Jauda, one of his wives, who was enticed by Muawiya’s promises money and
marriage to his son. Hasan was buried in Medina. Shi’i Muslims regard Hasan as a second Imam,
following Hazrat Ali Ibn e Abi Talib. So they accept that he was sinless and perfect in his actions. They
also credit him with miracles.
Husayn Ibn Ali(RA)
• He was the second son of Hazrat Fatima(RA) and Hazrat Ali (RA). He was born in Medina in 4AH/626
AD. Like his brother, he was named by the Prophet (pbuh). He was a source of great joy to his
grandfather, who was remembered as taking him on his knee and carrying him on his back. Prophet
(pbuh) said, “Hussain is from me and I am from Hussain, may Allah love him who loves Hussain.”
• Husayn was of course a loyal supporter of his father Hazrat Ali and after Hazrat Ali’s assassination, he
was reluctant to accept Hasan’s renunciation of the Caliphate, though he knew that Muawiya was
too strong to resist.
• He made his rejection of the Umayyads clear, when as one of five senior Muslims he refused
Muawiya’s request to acknowledge Yazid, his son, as a successor to the Caliphate. When Muawiya
died, Husayn refused to recognize Yazid as caliph .
• Supporters of his cause invited him to Kufa to lead an uprising against the Umayyads, and he
cautiously sent his cousin Muslim Ibn Aqeel to find out the situation. Muslim bin Aqeel detected
widespread support among the Kufans and wrote to encourage Husayn to come. But immediately
after Muslim sent the letter, he was captured by the Umayyad Governor of Basra and killed. Strict
measures were taken against Husayn’s supporters in Kufa, who were terrified.
• Husayn meanwhile left Medina for Mecca in Rajab 60AH/680 AD. But suspecting trouble during the
Hajj, he set out from Mecca with members of his family and close supporters. This was on 8
 2

Zulhajj60AH/10 September 680 AD. Leading Muslims advised him against this, and people he met on
his journey counselled caution. But he was not to be turned aside from his aim. His will was
strengthened when he heard that troops had been sent against him, and that his messengers to Kufa
had been killed.
• On 2nd Muharram 61AH/ 2nd October 680 AD Imam Husayn pitched his camp at Karbala, in the desert
near Kufa and on 7th Muharram, the water supply to his camp was cut off. Imam Hussain and his
suppoeters had to endure the pangs of hunger and thirst. Negotiations between the two sides were
unsuccessful.
• Finally, on 10th Muharram the battle began between the small but loyal band of Imam Hussain’s
supporters and the thousands strong Umayyads army. At first, there were minor skirmishes, but as
the day wore on many faithful followers of Imam Hussain fought one by one and were killed, and
their camp was set on fire.
• Only women and children, and the Imam Hussain’s eldest son Ali who was very ill, were now left
alive. Imam Hussain finally fought alone and was surrounded by the army of Yazid; he put up a brave
resistance but was finally struck down. His head was severed from his body and, along with the heads
of his companions, was taken to Yazid’s court in Damascus. The surviving son Ali and the women and
children were taken captive.
The beloved grandson of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was brutally martyred for standing up against the rule of
injustice and despotism. Muslims all over the world have held Imam Hussain in high regard. Shia Muslims
hold him in special reverence as the third imam and because of his decision to lay down his life fighting for
what he believed to be just and resisting the ungodly rule of Yazid.
5. (b) Explain how al-Husyan’s death remains important to Muslims today? [4]
• The tragedy of the Death of Imam Hussain carries a lesson for the Muslim World. He stood firm to
his principle and won an everlasting victory over the forces of evil. It is a legacy left by him that
Muslims should never submit to any authority which goes against the Divine Law and thrusts itself
upon the people by force. If the authority is aggressive and evil, sacrifice on the part of the followers
of truth becomes more essential. Numerical minority or the lack of resources should not stop them
from continuing their struggle against evil. Despite being helplessly besieged by the enemy along
with his family He did not give up his , so Muslims are encouraged to speak out against injustice and
be upholder of truth whatever the circumstances.
Bilal bin Rabah :
• Bilal Ibn Rabah R.a was a slave from Abyssinia.
• He was one of the seven early converts. He suffered a lot for accepting Islam. His master Umayyah
bin Khalaf used to torture him; He would make Bilal R.A lie down on burning sand and would place a
heavy stone on his chest. He told Bilal to denounce Islam or he would be left there to die. Bilal in
reply would say “Ahad Ahad!” (Allah, the One).
• Once Abu Bakr was passing by while he was being tortured, Abu Bakr bought him and set him free.
• After migration to Madinah, the Prophet (pbuh) chose Bilal to deliver Adhan to call the Muslims for
prayers, as he had a high pitched and resonant voice. Hence, Bilal came to be known as the Mudhin
of Prophet (pbuh).
• He participated in all the battles fought during the life of the Prophet (pbuh). He killed his master
Umayyah ibn Khalaf in the Battle of Badr. After the conquest of Makkah, he deliver Adhan on the
roof of Ka;bah.
• Bilal gave Adhan for the first time after the death of the Prophet (pbuh) on the request of the Caliph
Umar when a treaty was made with the Jews.
• Bilal was very pious person. He settled in Syria and married there. Once he dreamt that the Prophet
(pbuh) was calling him, he wept bitterly and left for Madinah. Hassan bin Ali, the Prophet’s grandson
comforted him and asked him to give Adhan. On hearing Bilal giving Adhan everyone was greatly
 3

moved as it reminded them of the time of the Prophet (pbuh) and tears rolled out of their eyes. He
died at the age of 60 and was buried in Damascus.
Abu Sufyan:
• Abu Sufyan was born in 560 AD. He was the chief of the clan of the Banu Abd-Shams from Banu
Umayya; he was a very powerful and respected man of Quraish. He was one of the Prophet (pbuh)’s
bitterest enemies. Abu Sufyan was married to Hind bint Utba. Abu Sufyan’s daughter Ramlah R.a was
married to the Prophet (pbuh).
• In 624 AD Abu Sufyan was coming back from Syria with his caravan and asked the Quraish to escort
him. As a result the battle of Badr took place. After the battle of Badr Abu Sufyan became the chief
of the Quraish. And led the Quraish in the battle of Uhad in 625 and the battle of trench in 627AD
against the Muslims.
• When the Prophet (pbuh) sent a letter to Heraclius inviting him to Islam, Abu Sufyan at the time was
in Jerusalem for Business purpose. Heraclius called Abu Sufyan and asked him about the Prophet
(pbuh) character’s. Abu Sufyan attested to the fact that the Prophet (pbuh) was truthful and never
broke promise.
• In 8 AH the Quraish broke the treaty of Hudaibiya, however they soon realized their mistake and Abu
Sufyan came to Madinah to have the Treaty restored, but he was unsuccessful.
• At the time of the conquest of the Makkah Abu Sufyan came to spy and was taken as a prisoner, but
was saved by the intercession of Abbas R.A. The Prophet (pbuh) invited him to Islam at that time Abu
Sufyan accepted that the Meccan gods had proved powerless and accepted Islam. Before entering
Makkah the Prophet (pbuh) honored Abu Sufyan by announcing that whose enters the house of Abu
Sufyan would be safe.
• Abu Sufyan fought by the side of the Prophet (pbuh) in the battle of Hunain. He lost an eye during
the siege of Taif. Abu Sufyan also fought in the battle of Yarmuk and died at the age of ninety in 650
AD in Madinah.
5. (b) What can be learnt from Bilal’s role in the Islamic community? [4]
Bilal’s life can provide Muslims with valuable [Link] ethnic background was not a hindrance in his status
as a companion of the Prophet, and so racial equality should be practised amongst Muslims of all
communities. The Prophet pbuh said, “All mankind is from Adam and an Arab has no superiority over a
non-Arab, nor has a non-Arab over the Arab. Similarly, no white has superiority over the black; nor have a
black over white; except by piety and good action…..you are all the children of Adam, and Adam was made
of mud.” His background of being a slave did not prevent the deep friendship between him and the Prophet,
and so all men should be treated equally despite their class. Due to the beauty of his voice the Prophet
favoured him as muezzin, and that it is the purity of one’s heart that God looks at.
5.(b) In your opinion, can Muslims today learn anything from Abu Sufyan’s
involvement with the Prophet? [4]
Muslims can learn that no matter how fierce a person is against Islam, they can change and become friends
to Islam. Therefore, Muslims should not treat non-Muslims in a bad way, as they can be part of their
community in the future. The example of the Prophet is to treat people well no matter how they treat you.
Muslims can also learn that a new Muslims’ sins are wiped clean so their past should not be held against
them. So Muslims now should not look down on new Muslims no matter what their background.
Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib
• He was related to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) in many ways. He was the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) uncle and
also the son of his maternal aunt as well as his foster brother. He was two years older than the Holy
Prophet (P.B.U.H). Hazrat Hamza was very fond of wrestling and hunting and excellent in the arts of
swordsmanship and archery. He was so involved in and attached to his pastimes that he hardly took
any notice of the spread of Islam.
• In 6th year of prophethood, One day he was returning from a hunt he was informed that if he had come
earlier he would have seen the condition of his nephew Mohammad (P.B.U.H) who was preaching his
 4

religion in the Ka’abah, when Abu Jahl abused him. Hazrat Hamza was enraged on hearing this. He
rushed to the Ka’abha where Abu Jahl was sitting with his companions. He pounced upon Abu Jahl and
struck him with his bow on the head with great force. Then he declared his acceptance of Islam. Those
were the days when Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) would preach Islam secretly.
• With the acceptance of Islam by Hazrat Hamza the situation changed and the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
was able to preach Islam openly. After his acceptance of Islam, he gave up hunting and wrestling and
devoted his time and energy to the cause of Islam.
• Hazrat Hamza migrated to Madinah with other Muslims in 622AD.
• In the second year of hijrat, Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) sent thirty men to check the caravan of the non-
believers of Makkah under the command of Hazrat Hamza. He had thus, the honour of being entrusted
with the banner of Islam for the first time in Islamic history
• During the battle of Badr he killed many unbelievers including their great warriors. In the Battle of
Uhad, the unbelievers deputed Wahshi, a slave of Hinda, Abu Sufyan’s wife to kill Hazrat Hamza in
return of his freedom and a handsome reward.
• Wahshi hid himself behind a rock and as soon as Hazrat Hamza came within range threw his weapons
at him. It was such a deadly weapon that as it struck Hazrat Hamza succumbed to his injury. Hinda
whose father was killed in the Battle of Badr by Hazrat Hamza, cut out of the liver from his dead body
and tried to chew it. Then she cut off the nose and ears of the dead body and made a necklace of them.
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) led the funeral prayers for all the martyrs of Uhad, including Hazrat Hamza
and gave him the title of ‘Chief of the Martyrs’.
Khalid bin Walid
• He was from a family who opposed the Prophet in Makka, and although he did not take part in the
Battle of Badr, he played a vital role in the Battle of Uhud against the Muslims, turning the Muslim
victory to defeat.
• He converted to Islam after the Treaty of Hudaybiya. In 629, Khalid set out for Madina. On the way he
met 'Amr ibn al-'As and ‘Uthman ibn Talha, who were also going to Madina to convert to Islam.
• After conversion he took part in the Battle of Mu’ta. It was the first battle between the Romans and
the Muslims. He reported that the fighting was so intense, that he used nine swords, which broke in
the battle. Khalid took over after Zayd ibn Haritha, then Ja’far ibn Abi Talib, then Abdullah ibn Rawaha
were killed. It was because of him that the Muslims returned safely. For this the Holy Prophet PBUH gave
him the title of Saif Allah – The Sword of Allah.
• He subsequently took part in the Conquest of Makka, Battle of Hunain and the Battle of Tabuk. During
the conquest of Makkah he was appointed as leader of one of the four squadrons into which the Holy
ProphetPBUH divided his army.
• He was at the farewell pilgrimage of the Prophet, and is said to have collected three hair from the
Prophet there, which gave him victory in his battles.
• Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar placed similar reliance on him and made him commander of their
armies in the wars against the Romans and the Persians. He died in 642 in Syria.
5 (b) Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib showed loyalty to the Prophet. How can Muslims show loyalty in their
everyday lives? [4]
Loyalty involves accepting and loving someone for who they are and not threatening to leave when things
become challenging. Muslims today can learn from Hazrat Hamza’s example and can show loyalty to their
faith by not giving up in times of difficulty or ease. They can show loyalty to their friends by always being
there for them when they need it or standing up for them. They can show loyalty to their families
by being honest, trustworthy, supportive, and generous and by helping them even when they do not
always want to.
 1

Week 05
Day 03
Ten Blessed Companions
1. Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A)
• He was a close friend of the Prophet pbuh from childhood. His pre-Islamic name was Abdul Ka’bah
which was later changed into Abdullah by Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). He was called Abu Bakr by
Arabs which means the father of baby camels; this is because he was fond of young camels
• He was the first free adult male out of Prophet’s immediate family to accept Islam. He accepted
Islam without any hesitation. The Prophet pbuh is reported to have said, “Whenever I offered Islam
to anyone, he always showed some reluctance…..Abu Bakr was the only person who accepted Islam
without any reluctance…..”.
• He had to face persecutions for his faith. Once he was pulled by his beard and was dragged through
the streets of Makkah when he stopped the Makkans from attacking the Prophet.
• He also brought other prominent Makkans to Islam. For example, Usman, Talha, Zubair and many
other companions accepted Islam as a result of his efforts.
• He bought slaves who were Muslims and set them free. For example, he gave one of his pagan slaves
and bought Hazrat Bilal and set him free.
• He showed the strength of his faith by readily accepting the truth of the Prophet’s account of the
Miraj (the Night Journey). For his demonstration of belief, the Prophet pbuh gave him the tilte “Al
Siddiq” i.e., “Testifier to the Truth”.
• Abu Bakr’s closeness to the Prophet was sealed by his daughter Aisha’s marriage to the Prophet soon
after the death of Hazrat Khadija. He accompanied the Prophet pbuh on the Hijra in 622 AD. During
the journey he stayed with the Prophet in the cave of Thaur and was reassured by the Prophet and
is referred to in the Quran as “Second of the Two” (9:40).
• After migration , he made a living by farming. He took part in all important battles against the
Makkans and the Jews . He fought all the battles during the time of Holy Prophet (PBUH). In battle of
Badr he didn’t fight but body guarded Prophet (PBUH) camp. In Uhad he showed willingness to fight
against his own son AbdurRehman bin Abu Bakr in a duel. He also participated in digging & fighting
of battle of trench.
• He again showed his unstinting support for the Prophet by supporting his decision of signing the
Treaty of Hudaibiya in 6 AH/628 AD and pacified Hazrat Umar, who was unhappy at the terms of the
treaty.
• During the battle of Hunain he remained firm and didn't retreat. He made huge financial
contributions to the expedition of Tabuk. He placed all his wealth in donation.
• He led the first pilgrimage to Makkah. He also led the prayers during the Prophet’s last illness.
Prophet said at the time of his death, “ If I were able to choose a friend on earth, I would choose
Abu Bakr.”
• At the time of Prophet’s (pbuh) death, he addressed the Muslim community and made everyone
realize that Islam was to continue after the Prophet’s (pbuh) death.

2. Hazrat Umar Ibn Khattab (R.A)

• Umar R.A was born in 590 A.D. He was a learned, educated and the intelligent person. He was a
strong spirited person and a wealthy merchant. In the sixth year of Islam the Prophet (P.B.U.H)
prayed to Allah to strengthen Islam either by Umar bin Khattab or Amr bin Hisham. It so happened
that Umar decided to kill the Prophet (P.B.U.H) while he was on his way with a sword in his hand, he
met Naim bin Abdullah. Umar told him that he was on his way to kill the Prophet (P.B.U.H). Naim
 2

told him that he better took care of his own family first as his sister and brother in law had both
converted to Islam. Hearing this Umar immediately went to his Sister Fatima’s house and found she
and her husband Saeed bin Zaid were reciting the Quran. Umar beat them severally so much so that
his sister bled profusely. When Umar calmed down , he asked her what she was reciting. She recited
Surah Taha that she was reading. When he heard the recitation he was deeply moved and went to
the Prophet (P.B.U.H) and accepted Islam.
• Conversion of Umar R.A strengthened Islam. His conversion gave courage to the Muslims. It boosted
the morale of Muslims so much that they started praying openly at Ka'bah. Abdullah ibn Masud
reported “We have been powerful since Umar embraced Islam.” The Prophet (P.B.U.H) gave him
the title of Al Farooqi.e the one who makes a distinction between the right and wrong.
• When the Muslims were ordered to migrate to Madinah, most of them left Makkah secretly but Umar
R.A migrated openly.
• He participated in all battles Badr, Uhad, Trench, Khyber and Hunain. At the time of battle of Badr
he shared camel with Abu Bakr and abdurRehman bin Auf. During the battle of Uhad he was among
those encircled the Prophet (P.B.U.H) to protect him from Quraish. He also dug the trench around
Madinah with other companions at the time of battle of trench.
• His ties with Prophet (PBUH) were strengthened when Prophet (PBUH) married his daughter Hazrat
Hafsa.
• He took the pledge of Rizwan at the hand of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) to avenge the blood of Usman.
He was unhappy about the terms of the treaty of Hudabiyah and showed his dissatisfaction for which
he later always repented. He was present at that time of signing of treaty.
• At the time of conquest of Makkah Abu Sufyan was taken a prisoner when he came to spy on Muslim.
Umar R.A asked the Prophet (P.B.U.H) permission to kill him.
• During the Expedition of Tabuk he gave half of his wealth in the way of Allah. The Prophet (P.B.U.H)
had a deep love for Umar R.A he said “Were a Prophet to come after me he would have been Umar
but I am the seal of prophets”. On the Prophet’s death in his grief, he said he would kill anyone who
said that the Prophet had died then Abu Bakr made him realize that Islam was to continue after
Prophet’s death.
3. Hazrat Usman ibn Affan R.A
• He belonged to the Umayyad clan of the Quraish and was among the few people in Makkah who
could read and write. He came from noble stock and a well-established family, and was very
successful trader.
• He accepted Islam in its early days at the invitation of Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A and was the first Umayyad
to accept Islam.
• Despite his status and wealth suffered persecution at the hands of his uncle who tied him with ropes,
wrapped him in a blanket and lit fire around him so that he would be suffocated but he did not leave
Islam.
• Hazrat Usman R.A married the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) daughter Hazrat Ruqayya R.A and migrated with
her first to Abyssinia and later to Madina.
• He did not participate in the first battle of Islam, Battle of Badr, on account of her ill health. She
passed away shortly afterwards and the same year the Prophet (P.B.U.H) married his other daughter
Umm Kulthoom R.A to him and gave him the title of Zunn-Nurain, the one with two lights.
• At Hudaibiya, Prophet (P.B.U.H) asked him to go and inform the Makkans of his intention to make a
pilgrimage to the Ka’aba. When the rumor of his assassination erupted, the Prophet took the oath of
revenge which is known as “Bait-e-Rizwan”.
• At the time of Conquest of Makkah, Hazrat Usman R.A rode alongside the Prophet (P.B.U.H) and at
the Farewell Pilgrimage he was given the duty of escorting the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) wives.
• Hazrat Usman R.A was very generous man and for his generosity was given the title of al-Ghani. ‘The
Generous One’. He spent freely from his wealth in the cause of Islam. For a vast sum of money,he
 3

bought, from a Jew, a well in Madina for the free use of Muslims emigrants, when they had problems
in getting drinking water. He also bore one third of the expenses for the army during the Tabuk
expedition, and bought the land for the expansion of the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) mosque when the
community of the Muslims [Link] was a very modest man there are many Ahadith where the
Prophet (P.B.U.H) praised his modesty.
• He was chosen to escort the Prophet’s wives at the farewell pilgrimage. The Prophet pbuh said, “For
every apostle of Allah, there was a constant companion and my companion in Paradise will be
Usman.”

4. Hazrat Ali bin Abu Talib (R.A)

• He was the son of the Holy Prophet’s paternal uncle Abu Talib. After marrying Hazrat Khadija, Hazrat
Muhammad took Hazrat Ali into his house to relieve Abu Talib of some of his burdens, since he was
very poor. Hazrat Ali became one of the first to accept Islam, at this time he was only ten years old.
• Hazrat Ali is remembered as the one whom the Prophet Muhammad had asked to sleep in his bed
on the night of the Hijra. By doing this, he fooled the Quraish assassins into thinking the Holy Prophet
was still in Makka, thus allowing him and Hazrat Abu Bakr to get away. And, as the Prophet had
requested, he was also able to return all the items which the Prophet had been holding in trust for
their owners. Hazrat Ali joined his cousin and Hazrat Abu Bakr at Quba outside Madina.
• A sign of Hazrat Ali closeness to the Prophet is that when the Emigrants from MakKah were paired
with Helpers from Madina, he was paired with the Prophets himself. Hazrat Muhammad said to him;
‘ You are my brother in this world and the next’.
• In the second year of the Hijra, he married the Holy Prophet youngest daughter Hazrat Fatima.
• In the battles fought by the Muslims, Hazrat Ali distinguished himself as a fierce warrior. He shared
a camel with the Prophet on the way to Badr, and was chosen as one of the scouts to discover the
enemy’s movements. Before the battle, he one of three Muslims who engaged in single combat, and
he was chosen to carry the Muslim banner into the fighting, where he killed many Quraish.
• At Uhad, the Prophet Muhammad again gave him the Muslim banner, after the original bearer had
been killed, and he was one of the Muslims who defended the Holy Prophet after he was wounded.
At the battle of al-Khandaq, he defeated his foe in single combat, and he was among the leaders in
the siege of the Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayza. He courageously used a door as a shield at Khaybar. At
the Muslim entry into Makka, he once again carried the Muslim banner. He defended the Holy
Prophet at Hunayn. He was also sent as commander of the Muslim forces in the expeditions to Fadak
and the Yemen.
• For his exceptional bravery , the Prophet(pbuh) gave him the title of “Asad ullah” i.e the lion of Allah.
• Hazrat Ali distinguished himself in other ways, too. He was the scribe who wrote the treaty of al-
Hudaybiya, and was one of the witnesses to it. During the pilgrimage led by Hazrat Abu Bakr 9AH, he
was sent by the Holy Prophet to read out new teachings which had been revealed. These can be
found at the beginning of Surat-al-Tawba.
• Later, when he was left behind to take charge of Madina during the expedition to Tabuk, and he
went to complain that he was not going with the fighting men, the Prophet indicated that Hazrat Ali
was his closest assistant: ‘Are you not content to be with respect to me as Harun was to Musa,
except that after me there shall be no other Prophet?’
• When the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W was returning to Madina after his farewell pilgrimage, an
incident took place at Ghadir Khumm, which illustrates his high regard for Hazrat Ali. In front of his
followers, the Prophet took Hazrat Ali hand and declared, ‘Of whomsoever I am lord, this Ali is also
his lord. O Allah! Be the supporter of whoever supports Ali and the enemy of whoever opposes
him.’ (This has been recorded by a number of Sunni authors and compilers of Hadith, including
Ahmed ibn Hanbal in his Musnad.)
 4

• Various sayings of the Holy Prophet have also been understood as tokens of the closeness between
the two. Particularly remembered among these are: ‘I am from Ali and Ali is from me.”
5. Talha ibn Ubaidullah
• He was among the first Muslims who accepted Islam at the hands of Hazrat Abu Bakr in Makka.
• He endured persecution at the hands of Quraysh, in particular when he and Hazrat Abu Bakr were
one day set upon and left tied up together on the ground.
• He travelled north to Madina, following the Prophet Muhammad and accompanied the last Muslims,
including the Prophet’s wife Hazrat Sawada and his two unmarried daughters, Umm Kulthum and
Fatima.
• Before the Battle of Badr, the Holy Prophet sent him and Saeed ibn Zayd to discover the Whereabouts
of the Makkan caravan, led by Abu Sufyan. And at the Battle of Uhud, he was wounded in the hand
when he deflected a sword from piercing the Holy Prophet’s head. The fingers of that hand remained
useless throughout the rest of his life. He remained at the Prophet’s side for the remainder of the
battle. For his bravery, he earned the title of ‘Living Martyr’. The Prophetpbuh is reported to have said:
“ Whosever is pleased to see a martyr on the surface of the earth, let him look at Talha bin
Ubaydullah.”
• Prophetpbuhgave him the title of ‘Fayyaz’ i.e. generous at the time of the Tabuk Expedition.
• After the death of Hazrat Muhammad, he supported Hazrat ‘Ali for the caliphate, but was eventually
persuaded to swear allegiance to Hazrat Abu Bakr.
• Later, he objected to Hazrat Ali delay in punishing Hazrat Uthman murderers, and toghter with
Zubayr ibn al-Awwam he raised an [Link] and Zubayr were killed in 35AH/656AD, in the clash
between the two sides in the Battle of the Camel.
6. Zubayr ibn al-Awwam
• He was a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad and nephew of Hazrat Khadija.
• He was one of the Muslims who accepted Islam after Hazrat Abu Bakr(some people say he was the
fourth or fifth person to do so).
• Following this, he found the treatment of the Quraysh so brutal that he went on the migration to
Abyssinia. He later returned with the group that came back to Makka.
• After the migration to Madina, he played a prominent part in the battles of Badr and Uhud, and also
in the expedition to Khaybar,and he was among the leaders of the Muslims force at the entry into
Makka.
• The Holy Prophetpbuhhad given him the title of ‘ Disciple of the Messenger of Allah’. About Talha and
Zubair, the Holy Prophetpbuhis reported to have said: “Talha and Zubair are my neighbours in
Paradise.”
• After the Holy Prophet’s death he supported his cousin Hazrat Ali as caliph, even though he had
married Hazrat Abu Bakr’s daughter.
• But later, together with Talha , he led an army against Hazrat Ali when the caliph hesitated in
punishing the Murderers of Hazrat Uthman. Zubayr was killed in the battle of the camel.
7. Sa’ad ibn abi waqqas
He was one of those who accepted Islam at the hands of Hazrat Abu Bakr. In the early years of Islam, he was
among some Muslims who went to pray outside Makka in order to avoid the Quraysh. They were interrupted
by some people of the town, and when he two groups came to blows, Sa’ad wounded an opponent and drew
the first blood in the time of Islam. He migrated to Madina with other Muslims in 622AD.
After the Hijra ,he took part in early expeditions and fought at the Battle of Badr. At the battle of Uhud, he
was one of the defenders of the wounded Prophet. As the Prophet was recovering from the blows struck at
him, he handed Sa’ad arrows to shoot. The Prophet (Pbuh) gave him the title of “The Best Archer.” In the
years following Hazrat Muhammad death, he advised the successive Caliphs. During the time of Hazrat ‘Umar
he commanded the Muslims forces that defeated the Persians at the Battle of al-Qadisiyya, and in the time
of Hazrat Uthman he was made governor of kufa. He died near Madina in 50AH/670AD or soon afterwards.
 5

8. Abd ar- Rahman ibn ‘Awf

He was one of the first eight persons to accept Islam and was one of the ten promised Paradise. His name in
pre-Islamic days was Abu Amr. But when he accepted Islam the Prophet (pbuh) called him Abd al-Rahman -
the servant of the Beneficent God.
Abd al-Rahman faced persecutions with the early Muslims by the Quraysh and remained firm in his faith.
When some Muslims left Makka for Abyssinia because of the continuous and unbearable persecution, Abd
al-Rahman also went.
Soon after arriving in Madinah, the Prophet made brothers of the Muhajirin and the Ansar. Abdur-Rahman
made the brother of Saad ibn ar-Rabi'ah.
Saad was willing to share his wealth and family with Abd al-Rahman, but he wanted to work himself so asked
to be shown the marketplace. He was a great merchant and this led to him becoming a wealthy man. He
fought at the battles of Badr and Uhud, and at the Battle of Tabuk he donated generously for the expedition
and then spent money equipping those people who were too poor to equip themselves. At Tabuk he also
had the honour of being the only person to have led the Prophet (pbuh) in prayer.
His generosity was well known, and in one incident he gave away all the wealth of his caravan to the people
of Madina. After the death of the Prophet (pbuh), he took it upon himself to look after the needs of the
Prophet’s wives, fixing them stipends from his own money. When asked the secret of his wealth he said that
he never lifted a stone unless he expected to find gold or silver under it.
He was one of the six persons chosen by ‘Umar to form the council of shura to choose the Khalifa after his
death. He died around 653 at the age of 75.
9. Abu ‘Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah
He was another among the early Makkan converts to Islam. He took part in the migration to Abysinnia and
Madina. He fought among the Muslims in the battles against the Quraysh. At Uhud, he stood close to the
Prophet Muhammad PUBH. He was among the leading Muslims who went on the raid, following this battle,
that took some revenge for what had been inflicted upon the Muslims.
When the Muslims victoriously entered Makka, he was given command of one of the four squadrons into
which the forces were divided. A sign of the Holy Prophet’s PBUH confidence in him as a Muslim is that when
the Christian delegation from Najran visited the Prophet PBUH in Madina and were impressed by what they
heard , he sent Abu ‘Ubayda R.A with them to act as a judge in disputes between them.
He also took part in the expedition which the Prophet PBUH sent to Syria, just before his death. In the days
following the Holy Prophet’s PBUH death, Abu ‘Ubayda R.A took a leading part in ensuring the election of
Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A as Caliph. A Mark of his standing is that Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A remarked that Abu ‘Ubayda
R.A was as worthy as he was himself of being caliph. During the caliphate of Hazrat ‘Umar R.A, he was put in
charge of the Muslim Forces that captured Palestine and Syria. He died in Syria in 18AH/639AD.
10. Sa’eed Ibn Zayd (R.A)
Sa’eed ibn zayd (R.A) was one of the early converts of Islam. His father Zayd was monotheist and followed
the religion of the Prophet Ibrahim. He was Umar’s (R.A) cousin and was married to his sister Fatima, Umar
(R.A) accepted Islam when he heard them reciting Surah Taha.
He was a devoted companion of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) and great warrior. He took part in all the major
campaigns and battles fought during the lifetime of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) except Badr as he and Talha were
out of Madinah to spy on the Quraish caravan when they returned to Madinah, The Prophet (P.B.U.H) had
already set out for Badr: however they were given a share in the booty.
He was present during the treaty of Hudaibiyah and participated in the conquest of Makkah. He played an
important role in the Muslim community after the death of Prophet (P.B.U.H). He was known for his courage
and bravery. He participated in many campaigns; he was the commander of the infantry of the Muslims army
during reign of Umar . He was made the governor of Damascus , but the resigned from the post of his love
for Jihad. Later, he fought as an ordinary soldier in all the battles that where waged for the cause of Islam.
He died in the 55AH and was buried in Madinah.
 1

Week 05
Day 04
Prophet’s (pbuh) Wives [Mothers of the Believers]
Hazrat Khadijah (R.A)
• She was the daughter of Khuwalid Ibn Assad who belonged to a wealthy family of the Quraish. Her
father was a successful merchant and had left her a great wealth. She was twice married and widowed
and had three children from her previous husbands, Harith, Hind and Hinda. She used to send her
merchandise for trading to other countries. She was known as “Tahira” i.e the pure one due to the
chastity of her character.
• Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) was recommended to her for his honesty and trustworthiness. He took
her merchandise to Syria and brought back huge profits. Maisara, her slave, who accompanied him in
his trip, spoke very highly of Muhammad (p.b.u.h). She was so impressed by him that she proposed
marriage through her friend Nafeesa, which he accepted after consulting his uncle, Abu Talib. At the
time of the marriage in 595AD, Khadijah (R.A.) was forty years old while Muhammad (p.b.u.h) was
twenty-five.
• The marriage was successful. They had six children, two sons and four daughters; both the sons died
in infancy. The elder was Qasim by whom the Prophet had his Kuniya; he was called Abul Qasim, (the
father of Qasim). The younger son was Abdullah, who was known as at-Tayyib and at-Tahir. The
daughters were Zaynab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthoom and Fatima (R.A.).
• The marriage freed Muhammad (p.b.u.h) from his financial worries as Khadijah (R.A.) placed her
wealth at his disposal. She brought wealth, prestige and influence to Muhammad (p.b.u.h).
• Khadijah (R.A.) was very devoted and loving wife. She stood by him at the time of hardship and trial.
After the first revelation when he came back home shaken from the experience, she comforted him
saying that Allah would not disgrace him as helped the widows and looked after the orphans and the
needy. She took him to her cousin Waraqa bin Naufil who further assured him that he was ordained
by Allah to be a Messenger.
• She was the first person to accept Islam, she was the only wife of Muhammad (p.b.u.h) who suffered
the persecution of the early days of Islam and suffered the most at the time of boycott. She died in
the 10th year of prophet-hood. This year was declared as the Year of Grief in the Islamic history.
Prophet (pbuh) said,“The Noblest women of the world are Maryam and Khadijah.”
• One day, Khadijah’s sister Halah came to visit the Muhammad (p.b.u.h), when he heard the familiar
voice, he said, “this must be Halah; her voice is just like that of Khadijah.” A’ishah said, “How is it that
you always think of the old woman, who is no more living, when Allah has given you much better
wives.” “Never better”, he replied. “She was the wife who believed in me when other rejected me.
When people refused to believe me, she affirmed my truthfulness. When I stood forsaken, she spent
her wealth to lighten the burden of my sorrow.” (Bukhari)
• Jibr’il is said to have sent greetings of peace to her, through the Prophet, from God and himself;
Khadija was Muhammad’s first wife and he chose not to marry any other woman during her lifetime.
Hazrat Sawda bint Zama’a (R.A)
• She was one of the first women to migrate to Abyssinia; her husband Sakran bin Amr had died and
she lived with her elderly father; she was middle-aged and had children from her previous marriage;
• she was the Prophet’s second wife and people were surprised he wanted to marry someone who was
widowed and older; they married one month after Khadija passed away and help was needed to look
after the Prophet’s children;
• She migrated to Madinah with Hazrat Fatima and Hazrat Umm Kulthum after the Prophet’s migration.
 2

• Her house was the first to be built in Madina; she welcomed other wives into the household;
• She was close to Aisha and in the end gave up her time with the Prophet to Aisha;
• She was known for her generosity;.The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) referred to her as the most charitable
and generous of his wives.
• On the eve of last Pilgrimage, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) enjoined his wives to remain in retirement
after his death. HazratSawdah followed this directive so much so that she never left her house even
for Hajj and Umrah.
• She died in the 22nd year of the Hijrat towards the end of the Khilafat of Hazrat Umar R.A. She was
buried in Jannat-al-Baqi.
Hazrat Aisha R.A,
• She was Prophet Muhammad’s pbuh third wife (thouh some think he married her before
HazratSawda), was the favourite of his later years. She was the daughter of his Companion Hazrat Abu
Bakr and one of his reasons for marrying her may have been to strengthen ties with his close friend.
• Hazrat Aisha would have known the Holy Prophet pbuh from her childhood as a daily visitor to her
father’s house. According to most authorities, she was six years old when she was married to him,
though the couple did not become man and wife until she was older. (some authorities say that she
was older than this when she married the Holy prophet pbuh). According to the historian, Hazrat Aisha
R.A became a Muslim along with her parents within the first two years of prophethood.
• Her marriage to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) was solemnized in Madina in the second year of Hijra and
she continued her youthful ways even afterwards. Her young friends would often visit her in her
apartment, a practice that the Prophet (P.B.U.H) encouraged.
• She accompanied the Prophet (pbuh) on different expeditions and battles. For example in the battle
of Uhad she, along with other Muslim women, gave water to Muslim soldiers and nursed the injured.
• Hazrat Aisha R.A was a person of high character. A scandal once surrounded her when she was
mistakenly left behind during a caravan rest stop on an expedition with the Prophet (P.B.U.H). She
returned to Madina escorted by a companion of the Prophet Sawan bin Muattal who had found her
waiting alone in the desert. Amid the ensuing gossip, a Quranic revelation (Al-Nur, 24:11-13) cleared
her reputation and proclaimed her innocence. This Surah also established the punishment for false
accusations of adultery.
• Verses about the practice of Tayammum (dry ablution) (Al-Nisa 4:43) were also revealed on her
account.
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H) had a strong bond with his young wife and amongst the ‘Mothers of the
Believers’ she is ranked as one of the most learned. She memorized the Quran during Prophet’s (pbuh)
lifetime.
• The Holy Prophet’s continuing love and special affection for Hazrat Aisha are clear from his desire to
be taken to her apartment when he was dying. She nursed him there in his last days and it was there
that he was buried.
• After Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) death she remained a leading figure in the Islamic community. Such was her
knowledge that even the companions would come to her to seek guidance in religious matters. She
narrated some 2210 Ahadith from the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) and was also a critic of badly
remembered ones.
• she was critical of the third Caliph, Hazrat Uthman but opposed his violent death. During the caliphate
of Hazrat Ali R.A , together with the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) companions Zubayr and Talha R.A, Hazrat
Aisha R.A mobilized opposition to Hazrat Ali R.A for not calling Hazrat Uthman’s killers to
accountability. This culminated in the Battle of Camel 656AD in which she played a central role but
her side lost. Thereafter, she did not participate in politics at all. Hazrat Aisha outlived the Prophet
(P.B.U.H) by 47 years and was one of the principal links back to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) era of decades
onwards as the world of Islam grew and expanded. She is buried in Jannat al-Baqi in Madina.
 3

Hazrat Hafsa bint Umar (R.A)

• she was the daughter of ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab. She was born five year before prophethood. She was
first married to Khunais bin Huzaifa.
• Hafsa became a Muslim along with her parents and her husband. He was among those who had
migrated to Abyssinia. Later, both Hafsa and her Husband migrated to Madinah.
• Khunais took part in the battle of Badr in which he was martyred, leaving no children. After the
prescribed period of Iddat(waiting) was over, the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) expressed his desire to
marry Hazrat Hafsa with a view to strengthening his ties with Hazrat Umar and his tribe.
• Like Aisha, she memorised the Qur’an by heart; she lived with the Prophet for eight years;
• She was quick tempered like her father, and revelation came after the honey incident where she told
the Prophet his mouth didn’t smell good after eating honey. The Prophet said that he would never
eat honey again. Allah sent the revelation(66:01) and commanded the Prophet not to make anything
unlawful to him which Allah has made lawful. After this Hafsa went to the Prophet and sought
forgiveness.
• After his death when the Qur’an was compiled, a copy was kept with her for safekeeping, known as
the mushaf. ‘Uthman took the Mushaf from her for standardising the Qur’an.
• She was also a narrator of hadith. She died when she was around 60 years old.
Hazrat Umm Salama (R.A)
• She was one of the earliest converts to Islam. She and her husband were among the first to emigrate
to Abysinnia.
• When her husband died after becoming injured at Uhud. First, Abu Bakr proposed her, then ‘Umar.
She said nobody was better than her husband so she didn’t want to marry again and then the
proposal came from the Prophet She accepted the Prophet’s proposal and they were married in 4AH.
• She memorised the Qur’an by heart during Prophet’s lifetime.
• She took part in many expeditions; at Hudaiybiyah the Prophet told the companions to offer sacrifice,
they didn’t do it, then Umm Salama told the Prophet to do the sacrifice himself then the companions
will follow him.
• Among the wives of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) Hazrat Umm-e-Salama was second only to Hazrat
Aisha in learning. She was very keen to learn traditions. She has quoted a number of traditions on
the authority of her first husband Abu Salamah, Hazrat Fatima R.A and the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
himself. Besides, several authors have quoted traditions on her authority. She is the narrator of 378
Ahadis.
Hazrat Maria Qibtiya
• She was sent to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) as a gift from the ruler of Egypt, in the year 628. The Holy
Prophet (P.B.U.H) had sent a letter of invitation to him and in order to show his respect, the ruler
sent a package of gifts to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) which included two Greek-Egyptian female
slaves(who happened to be sisters, Maria and Serena). Both accepted Islam on their Journey to
Madina after being explained the teachings of the faith by their escort Hatib.
• Hazrat Maria joined the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) household as his wife and bore him a son, Ibrahim
who tragically died as an infant, Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) later freed her.
• Hazrat Maria was included in the pension payment that were given to the Holy Prophet‘s(P.B.U.H)
wives after his demise, moreover, all source affirm that she was included in the ranks of ‘ Mother of
the Believers’
• Hazrat Maria passed away five years after Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H).
General Reading
Hazrat Zainab bint Khuzaymah was born in Makkah and was the step sister of both umm-al-Fadhl, the
wife of Prophet (P.B.U.H) uncle Abbas, and of the Mother of the faithful, HazratMaymunah. They were from
 4

same mother, but had difference father. Harat Zainab was fortunate, in that she embraced Islam in the early
days of the faith. Her husband died in the battle of Uhad, and she began to live in poverty. Prophet (P.B.U.H)
that proposed marriage to her to ease her burden, and in lieu of her husband services to Islam. Hazrat Zainab
was an extremely generous person known to help the needy and destitute, and for her generosity and
kindness to the poor, she earned the title of Umm-al-Masakeen, ‘Mother of the Poor’. She died soon after
her marriage to the Prophet (P.B.U.H). He led her funeral prayer and lowered her body into the grave. She
is too buried in Jannat al Baqi.
Hazrat Juwayriyyah bint al-Haritha was the daughter of the chief of the Banu Mustaliq and was taken
captive after her tribe had been defeated by the Muslims in 5 A.H. Juwayriyyah whose real name was Barra
was among the prisoners and she was allotted to one of the companion name Thabit ibn Qays as part of his
share of the spoils but she wanted to pay him a ransom for her freedom to which he agreed. Some month
later, she approached Prophet (P.B.U.H) and declared her conversation to Islam; at the same time she told
him of her predicament of not being able to buy her freedom. He agreed to have her set free also proposed
marriage to her, which she readily accepted. They were married in 628. As a result of her marriage to the
Prophet (P.B.U.H) the Muslims liberated all the captives of the Banu Mustaliq. Hence she was a source of
blessing to her tribe as well. Her father and tribes and tribesmen also accepted Islam soon after their release
from captivity,
Hazrat Juwayriyyah led a pious and simple life and spent her time in lengthy prayers and regular fasting.
Hazrat Aisha taught her the reading of Quran and she spent a lot of her time in its recitation.
HazratJuwayriyyah died 28 years after Prophet (P.B.U.H) and is buried in Jannat al Baqi.
Hazrat Zainab bint Jahshwas a cousin of Prophet (P.B.U.H) and the Prophet (P.B.U.H) himself had
arranged her marriage to Zayd bin Harithah, his adopted son and former slave. Hazrat Zainab at first refused
to proposal saying that she was the widow of a Quraish, implying that her social standing was higher than
that of Zayd. It was perhaps the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) intention to demonstrate by this union that near Allah
the standing of a person was not because of lineage but piety, and it may have been the reason why he
wanted to arrange this union.
It was after Prophet (P.B.U.H) announced a new verse of the Holy Quran stating “It is not fitting for a believer
man or woman when a matter has been decided by Allah and His Messenger, to have any option about
their decision: if anyone disobeys Allah and His Messengers he is clearly on wrong path.” (33:36) that
Hazrat Zainab agree to marry Zayd. The marriage however fell apart and the Prophet (P.B.U.H) himself
married her after the revelation of Quranic injunction to do so on completion of the mandatory period of
iddat. Hazrat Zainab used to boast on the other wives of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) saying “You were given in
marriage by your families while I was married (to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) by Allah from over seven
heavens”
Hazrat Zainab was known for her wisdom and given the title of Umm al-Hikma (Mother of wisdom) she was
also known as ‘one with the long arm’ on account her generosity and charitable nature. She was extremely
pious and God-fearing and the Prophet (P.B.U.H) had predicted that she would be the first wife to die after
him. She died during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar and was buried in Jannat al Baqi
Hazrat Ramla bint Abu Sufyan was the daughter of Abu Sufyan the chief of the Umayyad clan and the
leader of the whole Quraish tribe and one of the most powerful opponents of Prophet (P.B.U.H). Her first
husband was Ubaydullah ibn Jahsh a brother of Hazrat Zainab bint jahsh. Ubaydullah ibn jahsh and Ramla
were among the first people to accept to accept Islam. In 616, in order to escape the hostilities of the
Quraish they both emigrated to Abyssinia where she gave birth to her daughter Habibah and came to be
known Umm Habibah. When Ubaydullah died while still in Abyssinia, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) sent her a
proposal of marriage which she gladly accepted.
The wedding ceremony took place in Abyssinia even though the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was not present. The
Negus a huge feast after the ceremony and arranged to send all thirty of the remaining immigrant Muslims
back to Arabia. They travelled to Madina in to boats, Shurahbil ibn Hasana accompanied HazratRamlah on
this journey. hazratRamlah held the Prophet (P.B.U.H) in high regard. When her father came to seek her help
 5

re-negotiating the Treaty of Hudabiya she refused to let him sit on the Prophet’s bedding as he was at that
time still a polytheist. She was a simple and pious lady and it is said that she narrated some sixty- five hadiths

Hazrat Safiyah bint Huyyay ibn Akhtab Was the daughter of Huyyay ibn Akhtab, the Jewish
instigator of the pagan siege of Madina. After the Muslims Survived that assault, they marched northwards
towards Khaybar, a Jewish settlement from where the plot was hatched. After some fighting , the Jews were
subdued and HazratSafiyah was taken captive and given to a Muslim named Dahia as part of his share of
Spoils. Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) purchased her freedom from Dahia and proposed marriage to her,
which she accepted and converted to Islam .The wedding took place in 628 and this cemented the relations
between Jews and [Link] though young in years, was fiercely loyal to Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H),
She was also very intelligent and Charitable. She accompanied the Holly Prophet (P.B.U.H) to Makkah on his
Farewell Pilgrimage. She outlived Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) by 38 years and died at the age of 60 in the month
of Ramadan. She too is buried in Jannat al-Baqi
Hazrat Maymunah bint al-Harith Was widow and sister- in-law of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
uncle Abbas.T he Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) married her in the year 629, and She was his last Wife. She died in
681 and was also the last of his Wives to follow Him, Hazrat Maymunah is also buried in Jannat al-Baqi.
Hazrat Rayhana bint Amir Rayhana bint Amir was A Jewish women from the Banu Nadir married to
man from the Banu Qurayazah. She was also taken captive from the campaign against Banu Qurayazah and
given to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) .He freed her but initially she refused to marry him and lived quietly in
her own apartments. She did not accept Islam until a few years later and was never included among the
‘Mother of the Faithfull ’. Some accounts say that the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) married her, but these were
untested claims. She died shortly after Holly Prophet (P.B.U.H) farewell Pilgrimage .
(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]
• They had a love and respect for each other that people could learn from today; she had her own
business which the Prophet never stopped her from, and she supported the Prophet through all his
difficulties. Following their example, Muslim couples today should support each other in times of
difficulty and distress.
• She reassured her husband when he told her about the revelation and never stopped believing he was
telling the truth because she knew his character. In times of difficulty people should be patient with
each other and try to reassure their partners.
(b) How can Hazrat Aisha be seen as a role model for Muslims now? [4]
Her role as a teacher of sunna should inspire Muslims to learn and teach their religion. She memorized the
Qur’an which Muslims should also aspire to do. She is especially a role model for women as she was more
learned than many of the men of her time. She was patient in times of difficulty and generous with wealth
when she had it. she took part in public life which should encourage Muslim women today to take an active
part in nation building after acquiring education and necessary skills e.g. medicine, teaching, research,
nursing etc. women can play a vital role in society and should not be deprived of education.
(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]
The Prophet encourages men to look after their wives and that those with good character treat their wife
better than they treat others. Prophet (pbuh) treated all of his wives with love, respect, compassion and
kindness. Muslims should not compete in jobs or wealth but rather in how well they treat their wife and
family. Those who treat their wife well are those who should have most respect. Now many Muslims do not
treat their wives well, they treat them like slaves, or they beat them, but this is not what the example of the
Prophet teaches Muslim men about their relationship with their wives.
Aaminah:
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6

• A year before “the year of the elephant,” ‘Abdullah ibn Abdul Muttalib was married to Aminah
daughter of Wahb. When the time came close to the birth of the Prophet (s.a.w.), Amina saw a dream
that she gave birth to a boy and with this boy a magnificent emergence of light spread out and
enveloped the earth until it reached Busra in al-Sham. She also saw herself in the dream saying ‘I
seek for him, refuge in Allah the One from the evil of every envier’. Aminah, named him Ahmad
[meaning one who renders praise (to God)].
• Soon after he was given to Halima saadia for nursing. When he was two Halima brought him back
but requested Aaminah to keep him for more time, to which she agreed. When Muhammad s.a.w.
was 6 years old, his mother decided to visit the grave of her husband, Abdullah, in Yathrib. Both
Barakah and Abdal-Muttalib tried to dissuade her. Aminah however was determined. The caravan
took ten days to reach Yathrib. Muhammad s.a.w. was left with his maternal uncles of the Banu Najjar
in Madinah(Yathrib), while Aminah went to visit the grave of Abdullah. Each day for a few weeks she
stayed at the grave.
• On the way back to Makkah, Aminah became seriously ill with fever. Halfway between Yathrib and
Makkah, at a place called al-Abwa, they stopped where she died and was buried.
• The Prophet (pbuh) did not spend a lot of time with his mother yet he had great love for her and
always remembered her. In the last year of his life, on his way perform the farewell pilgrimage, the
Prophet (pbuh) stopped at Abwa at the grave of his mother and wept there by remembering her.

Halima Sadia :
• She was an Arab Beduin woman. She was a Wet-nurse and raised up the prophet Muhammad when
he was a child and took care of him for the first 5 years of his life.
• There were many signs about how Halimah`s life was changed to a better days. Her goats used to
come home full, and over flowing with milk, while the rest of the Bedouins' goats used to come
home scraggy and empty. Halimah knew that she had a blessed child with all the miracles and
blessings.
• After two years, Muhammad was returned to his mother Amina. She told Amina about the great
blessings that she had received when Muhammad was in her care, but soon, Amina
was persuaded by Halima and her husband (Al-Harith) to return the child back with them for another
two years to protect him from a spreading disease in Makkah.
• After two years, a strange incident happened to the prophet. He was playing with his foster brother
at the back of their homes, when two Angels appeared to them as two men wearing white clothes.
The Angels laid down the prophet and opened his chest, took out his heart, split it and removed a
blood clot and washed it and his chest until they became purified . Then, they returned the heart
back to Muhammad's body before going away. His foster brother ran to Halimah and told her that
Muhammad has been murdered. She rushed out and found Muhammad standing with a pale white
face. She checked all over his body and found that he was fine and then she took him back to their
home. Due to that incident, she was afraid.
• Later and very shortly, she returned Muhammed to his mother. Then, Muhammad was returned to
the care of his mother Amina and continued to live with her until she died..
• Years after Muhammad's mother died and he got married to Khadijah, Halimah came to him
complaining of her poverty. He asked Khadijah to give her 40 sheep. After Muhammad got his first
revelation, Halimah and her husband came to the Islamic prophet and embraced Islam. When she
came to Muhammad on the day of Hunayn, he took off his robe and put it on the ground for her to
[Link] died in 8 A.H. and her grave lies in JannatulBaqi, [Link] Prophet (pbuh) was known to
call Halima ‘my mother’.
Abu Talib
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• Abu Talib was paternal uncle of the Holy Prophet who brought him up after the death of his parents
and his grandfather by the time he was eight years old. He took him into his family and treated him
like his own son, giving him extra kindness.
• When the Holy Prophet started to preach Islam, his relatives turned against him. But Abu Talib, who
had taken care of him since he was a child, said to him: ‘Go ahead with what you have been bidden
and I pledge to continue to give you my support and protection’.
• Abu Talib continued to maintain his positive attitude as his nephew Hazrat Muhammad did not mean
any harm and did not call anything wrong. The chiefs of Makkah did not take any action against the
Holy Prophet in the early stages. When he started to criticize their idol worship, they decided that
the matter was too serious to ignore. Yet they could not do much about it because Abu Talib
protected his nephew against all threats and let everyone know of his readiness to fight for him.
• As the Holy Prophet continued to preach his mission, oppositions increased. Therefore, a delegation
composed of the most influential people of Makkah came to Abu Talib and asked him to stop his
nephew from preaching his religion or to hand him over to them. Abu Talib who continued to follow
the religion of his people, did not let his nephew down. He called the Holy Prophet and told him what
had taken place. He explained to the Holy Prophet the difficulty of the situation and said: “Save me
as well as yourself and do not cause me to carry a burden I cannot bear.”
But the Holy Prophet was firm as ever and said, “O my uncle if they place the sun of my right hand and the
moon on my left hand and ask me to renounce my work, Iwill not stop until Allah fulfils it for me, or
destroys me in the process”
Abu Talib was deeply moved and said: “you may go and do whatever you like. I will never withdraw my
protection from you and will never let you down”
• Abu Talib communicated his resolution to the people of his tribe and asked them to protect the
Prophet against the Quraish. He was the Holy Prophet’s protector as long as he lived. He died I 10 th
year of prophethood. His death was such a great loss to the Holy Prophet that he called the year of
his death the ‘year of Grief’. After Abu Talib’s death. Quraish started abusing the Holy Prophet
verbally and physically.
Prophet’s (pbuh) Daughters
1. Hazrat Zainab
She was eldest daughter. She was born in 5th year of marriage when the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was 30. She was
married to Abul Aas bin Rabi, Khadija’s nephew. When Hazrat Zainab became a Muslim and her husband did
not, it caused problems.
Abul Aas fought on the side of Quraish in the battle of Badr, and he was taken as prisoner and brought
before the Prophet. Hazrat Zainab sent a necklace, which her mother had given her, for his release. When
the Prophet (P.B.U.H) saw the necklace, he recognized it and his eyes were filled with tears. He consulted
his companions and returned the necklace and freed Abul Aas on condition that he sent Zainab to Madina.
Later Abul Aas came to Madina. However, they were separated when a Divine Revelation prohibited Muslim
women to marry non-Muslims. Later, Abul Aas accepted Islam, and they were rejoined.
Zainab died in 8 A.H as a result of sword wound inflicted by Habbar bin Aswad at the time she was migrating
to Madina. She had a son Ali and a daughter Umamah.
2. Hazrat Ruqayyah (R.A)
She was three years younger than Zainab. She was first married to Utba, son of Abu Lahab before
prophethood. However, Abu Lahab became a bitter enemy of the Prophet after his prophethood.
After the revelation of Surah Lahab Abu Lahab asked his son to divorce Ruqayyah which he did.
She then was married to Hazrat Usman and migrated with him to Abyssinia Where she gave birth to a son
Abdullah who died when he was six year old. They came back to Makkh in the tenth year of prophethood. A
few years later she migrated to Madina with her husband. She died in 2 A.H, just at the time when Muslims
were returning from the Battle of Badr. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) performed her funeral prayer. Due to her
illness, Hazrat Usman did not participate in the Battle of Badr.
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3. Hazrat Umm e Kulthum (R.A)

Hazrat Umm Kulthum was the third daughter of Prophet (P.B.U.H). She was first married to Utaibah another
son of Abu Lahab. When the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) declared his mission, Abu Lahab became his enemy.
After the revelation of surah Lahab and asked his son to divorce Umm e Kulthum, which he did. She migrated
to Madina with her step mother HazratSawdah. After the death of her sister Ruqayyah she was married to
Hazrat Usman, hence he came to be known as Zul-Noorain. She did not have any child. She died in 9 A.H in
the month of Shabaan while her father and husband were away on the Tabuk expedition.
4. Hazrat Fatima(R.A)
She was the youngest daughter born to Prophet (P.B.U.H) and Hazrat Khadja five years before prophethood.
She was much loved by her father and among all her sisters resembled him the most. She used to hear him
recite the Quran and had memorized the entire Holy Book. She also acquired much knowledge and wisdom
by spending time in the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) company. After the death of her mother Hazrat Khadija she tried
to look after the comfort and needs of her father at home. Whenever the Prophet (P.B.U.H), came home
injured from the streets of Makkah she would tend to his wounds.
Once she saw Abu Jahl putting the guts of a dead animal on her father’s back when he was praying and was
in prostration, she ran to him to remove the filth from its back whilst he stayed in his position. When the
Prophet (P.B.U.H) saw her crying he said, “Don’t cry, my daughter for indeed Allah will make your father
victorious”.
Prophet (P.B.U.H) migrated to Madina before her because he knew that if he allowed her to go before him
the Quraish would have known about his plans to migrate , and if he took her with him it would have posed
a big danger to her. So, she stayed back and followed later him to Madina with Hazrat Saudah.
In Madina many sought Hazrat Fatima hand in marriage but the Prophet (P.B.U.H) politely declined all and
gave her in marriage to Hazrat Ali. In 624AD they were married and lived simple yet happy life together,
experiencing the poverty faced by the most of the immigrants. A Year later Hazrat Fatima gave her birth to
her first son who the Prophet (P.B.U.H) named al-Hassan, the beautiful one and the following years in 626
she gave birth to another son who the Prophet (P.B.U.H) named al-Hussain the little beautiful one. She also
had two daughters Zainab and umm kulthoom.
Prophet (P.B.U.H) had a special affection for his youngest daughter on one occasion he said to her “You are
the highest of the women of the people of paradise except for Maryam daughter of Imran .”
In his last illness he foretold that Hazart Fatima would be the first of his family to follow him and she died in
632, within 6 months of her father death. Muslim hold Hazrat Fatima in high respect and she regarded as
the perfect role model for Muslims women. She also remembered by her title ‘Al Zahra’, ‘the shining one’.
The Prophet (P.B.U.H) showed his affection for her and would visit her before he left on a journey and upon
returning.
5.(b) Can Muslims learn from the Prophet’s bond with Fatima? Give reasons for your
answer. [4]
There is no greater father daughter relationship example than that of prophet and Fatima. We can model
our life after them. The holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) had special affection for Hazrat Fatima. He always stood up
when she came to him. Prophet’s great respect and dignity to her teaches us what good treatment to our
daughters looks like. Distance and dismissive behavior is against Islamic tradition. Once Prophet (P.B.U.H)
said “Fatima is a part of me, whoever hurts her, hurts me and whoever holds malice against her hold
malice against me”. Father who have a healthy connection with their daughters will find that what hurts
their daughter will hurts them.
Prophet (P.B.U.H) told her that she would be the first one to join him in paradise. This is an extra ordinary
example of father daughter relationship which should be followed today. Prophet (P.B.U.H) never mourned
that he had daughters and no sons (as his three sons died in infancy) so Muslim should not think that sons
are better than daughters. Daughters can learn from Hazrat Fatima loyalty and respect for her father.