The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

3 (a) Describe the events of the Battle of Uhud. [10]
(b) ‘Success for Muslims depends on their obedience to the Prophet.’ Discuss this
statement in relation to Muslims today. [4]
(a) Candidates should give a clear and detailed narrative of the events of the battle, including
names of the key figures involved.
The battle took place in 3AH (625) in revenge for the Makkan defeat at Badr; the Makkan army
numbered 3000 led by Abu Sufyan, whilst the Muslims were around 1000; shortly before the
battle started Abdullah ibn Ubayy deserted the army with 300 of his people; the Muslims
decided to meet the Makkan army at Uhud; the Prophet posted 50 archers on a hill to protect
them from being attacked from behind; in the battle Hamza was killed by Wahshi, who earned
his freedom through this act; Khalid bin Walid tried to break the Muslims from behind three
times but the archers held him off; the Muslims were successful in driving back the Makkans,
and started to collect the spoils of war; on seeing this some of the archers left their post on the
hill to join those collecting the spoils; Khalid bin Walid noticed this and used the opportunity to
attack the Muslims from the rear; the Quraysh army on seeing this turned back and renewed the
battle; many Muslims fled; the Prophet was surrounded by nine Madinans, and only Talha bin
Ubaidullah and Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas survived; the Prophet was badly injured; remaining
Muslims were disheartened on hearing the Prophet had been killed; the Prophet and Muslims
retreated to the Uhud mountain; the Makkans mutilated the dead bodies of the Muslims,
including Hind who chewed on the liver of Hamza; the Muslims buried their martyrs and
returned to Madina; around 70 Muslims were killed and 22/37 of the Makkans.
(b) Candidates could say that the defeat at Uhud occurred due to the fact that the archers did
not obey the Prophet’s command. They can mention this but should not focus on this point
alone, rather should go on to discuss how Muslims should obey the Prophet now.
Candidates could say that 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.
Candidates could also say that following the Prophet does not make one successful
nowadays because e.g. success comes from individual’s work or their own thoughts and
actions.
Whatever the candidates decide they should give reasons for their answer.
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4 (a) The Prophet entered Makka and took control of it in 8AH. Describe the main details of this
event. [10]
(b) The Prophet’s characteristic of mercy was clearly demonstrated in this event. Is it
realistic to expect Muslims today to follow his example? [4]
(a) Good answers should be able to narrate the story of the events of the Conquest of Makka,
leading up to it and immediately after, and give detailed information as well as name the key
figures involved. Details and accuracy will take candidates up the levels.
The Quraysh had broken the terms of the Treaty of Hudaybiyya, by attacking Banu Khuza’ah
who had allied with the Muslims. Realising the seriousness of the situation the Quraysh sent

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Abu Sufyan to ensure the treaty was intact, but he left Madina without doing so. After making
preparations for war, the Prophet set out with 10 000 soliders. It was 8AH. The Prophet’s army
stopped outside Makka and it was here that Abu Sufyan became Muslim and his house was
made a safe place. The Prophet entered Makka, with only Khalid bin Walid's group facing
resistance, killing 12 Makkans and sustaining two martyrs. The Prophet knocked down the 360
idols in the Ka’ba. The keys to the Ka’ba were given to ‘Uthman bin Talha, and at the time of
prayer, Bilal ascended the Ka’ba and gave the adhan. Apart from nine people, the Quraysh
were pardoned, including Wahshi and Hind. Some Qur’anic verses related to the incident are
17.81 and 34.49.
(b) Candidates could say yes or no, but have to give reasons for their answer.
They could agree and say it is realistic, because they should follow Islam no matter what
time or place they are living in and the Prophet’s example is for all time. Better answers will
write about how they can do this in their own lives/in a current context.
They could say it is not possible for Muslims to follow his example, e.g. because he was the
perfect model and other humans are not. Better answers could say how it is difficult to apply
this kind of mercy into their everyday lives.
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5 (a) Give an account of the lives of ‘Ali ibn Talib and Zayd bin Harith, during the life of the
Prophet. [10]
(b) To what extent do ‘Ali and Zayd’s relationships with the Prophet provide models for family
relations today? [4]
(a) Answers for this part should give accounts of the lives of both these companions, while the
Prophet was still alive and before they became caliphs.
‘Ali ibn Talib: the Prophet’s cousin, he went to live with the Prophet at a young age to alleviate
the hardship on his father; was one of the first to accept the message of Islam at the age of ten;
when the Prophet started open preaching, he called his clansmen to Islam and it was only ‘Ali
who stepped forward to accept it; the Quraysh laughed at ‘Ali being made an emir that they
should obey; he stood by the Prophet during the persecutions and the boycott in Makka; he was
entrusted with the Quraysh’s belongings to be returned to them when the Prophet migrated to
Madina, and he met the Prophet and Abu Bakr at Quba; in Madina ‘Ali was made the brother of
the Prophet; he married the Prophet’s daughter Fatima and they had four children; ‘Ali was a
prominent fighter in all the battles (except Tabuk), commanding the Muslim army at Khaybar; he
was one of the scribes of the Prophet, writing down the Qur’an as well as the Treaty of
Hudaibiyah; ‘Ali rode next to the Prophet on the final pilgrimage; ‘Ali and Abbas washed the
body of the Prophet when he died.
Zayd bin Harith: He was eight years old when he was captured as a slave; he was bought by
Khadija’s nephew and given to Khadija; she then gave him to the Prophet who freed him; his
family never stopped looking for him; they heard he was in Makka and arrived with a ransom to
free him; the Prophet gave him a choice to go with his father and uncle or to remain with him;
Zayd chose to remain with the Prophet, after which the Prophet declared Zayd his son and heir;
he was called Zayd bin Muhammad until the revelation 33.5 was revealed after which he was
called Zayd bin Harith; he was the third person said to have accepted Islam; he accompanied
the Prophet when he tried to preach to the people of Ta’if and was injured as well; he was
amongst those who went back to Makka to accompany the remaining Muslims to Madina; he
married several times, once to the Prophet’s cousin Zainab, a marriage that ended in divorce
(verse 33.37); he was close to the Prophet and fought in many battles, including Badr, Uhud,
Trench and Khaybar; he commanded seven military expeditions; at the Battle of Mu’ta he was
the standard bearer, and was killed on the battlefield.
(b) These stories can tell Muslims that it is not just immediate relations that are important, and

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

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. Although God later changed the
inheritance of adopted children, their treatment within the family should be like your own
children.

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]
(b) Which of the Prophet’s characteristics you have written about in part (a) is the most important
in your opinion and why? [4]

Candidates can offer a variety of answers, but they should identify an event in the life of the
Prophet and give details as to the character of the Prophet during that event.
Examples they could write about are:
Kind: at the time of the persecutions in Makka there was an old woman who threw rubbish on
the Prophet every day as he walked to the mosque; one day she was not there; he asked her
neighbour about her well-being and found out she was ill; he asked permission to visit the
woman; when he entered the house, the woman thought that he had come there to take his
revenge when she was unable to defend herself because of sickness; but the Prophet
assured her that he had come to her, not to take any revenge, but to see her and to look
after her needs, as it was the command of God that if anyone is sick a Muslim should visit
him/her and should help him/her if help is needed.
Merciful: the Prophet went to preach Islam to the people of Ta’if, who rejected him and chased
him away, throwing stones at him causing him to bleed. When the angel Jibril came and said
God has given permission to destroy the people of Ta’if upon the Prophet’s command, the
Prophet replied that he would rather have someone from their community believe in and
worship one God.
Trustworthy: the Makkans knew of the Prophet’s trustworthiness and called him al-Amin; even
after prophethood they continued to entrust their belongings to him knowing that he would keep
them safe; on migration to Madina he returned all their belongings through ‘Ali.
Truthful: He was known to the Quraysh as al-Sadiq; even after prophethood they rejected his
message but still believed he would not tell a lie;
Humble: despite the Prophet’s status, he never lived an extravagant life; his wife Aisha related
that at home he would sweep the house, stitch his own clothes, fix his own sandals, help
employees in their work and eat his meals with them. He did not think of himself as better
than the poor, and would accept invitations from slaves and the poor; he also showed his
humility at the Conquest of Makka.
b)Candidates here should take one of the examples they have written about and give reasons
as to why they think it is the most important of the Prophet’s characteristics.
It is not enough to write that e.g. his mercy was the most important because he forgave
people which showed people he was a great Prophet, but they need to show an
understanding of why they think it was important, whether they relate it to the events at the
time of the Prophet, or whether they relate it to the lives of Muslims now.
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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

4 (a) Outline the difficulties the Prophet faced between receiving his first revelation and the boycott
of Banu Hashim. [10]
(b) Why did the people fear the message that the Prophet had brought? [4]

Candidates should write a detailed account of the difficulties faced by the Prophet mainly,
whilst brief mention could be made of the difficulties faced by his companions.
Candidates could give a brief description of the Prophet beginning to preach openly after
years of secret worship, after he announced his faith to the Quraysh on mount Safa. They
rejected his call to Islam, and subsequently went on to mock and torture the Prophet. He was called a mad
man, or possessed by jinn [15.6, 68.51]; Abu Lahab forced his two sons to
divorce the Prophet’s daughters Ruqayya and Umm Kulthum; they laughed and mocked him
after his son’s death, calling him “abtar”; Abu Jahl had the foetus of a she-camel placed on
the Prophet’s back while he was praying at the Ka’ba, which was removed by Fatima; his
followers were also persecuted which hurt the Prophet too; the Prophet and his followers
were boycotted and were not allowed business dealings or social contact with the Makkans;
they stayed in Shib i Abi Talib for three years, where they had little food or water.
b)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. They had no interest in obeying a religion that outlawed
what they enjoyed and gave them no special status over their fellow men.
It was against the religion of their forefathers, which they did not want to change.
Better answers will be able to offer evaluation and expand on the points that they make.
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5 (a) Write about the lives of two of the Prophet’s wives whom he married after the death of
Khadija. [10]
(b) “The best of you is the one best to his wife.” Explain what the Prophet meant by this statement
and how it is relevant to Muslims now. [4]

Candidates should give a detailed narrative about two wives and should not be awarded
marks for writing about Khadija. They should expand on the points below and add to the
detail.
Candidates can choose from:
Sawda bint Zam’a: Prophet’s second wife; she was widowed and older than the Prophet;
known for her generosity, died ten years after the Prophet.
Aisha bint Abu Bakr: married at young age; they were married for nine years; involved in
many important events and battles; verses from sura Nur, 11–19 revealed about her; she
became one of the greatest narrators of Hadith; took part in Battle of Camel after the
Prophet’s death.
Hafsa bint ‘Umar: widowed at young age; memorised Qur’an; mushaf was kept with her;
was a narrator of Hadith.
Zaynab bint Khuzayma: husband was martyred at Badr; known for her generosity; died
after being married to Prophet for 8 months.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Umm Salama Hind bint Abi Umayya: husband died at Uhud; rejected proposal of Abu Bakr
and ‘Umar then accepted proposal by Prophet; memorised Qur’an; outlived all other wives.
Zaynab bint Jahsh: the Prophet’s cousin; married to Zayd bin Haritha but marriage ended in
divorce; then married the Prophet.
Juwayriya bint al-Harith: the daughter of the chief of Banu Mustaliq; taken captive after
successful campaign against them; Prophet proposed to her, and due to this the booty was
returned and captives freed; married for six years; died 39 years after his death.
Umm Habiba Ramla bint Abi Sufyan: one of the early Muslims; migrated to Abyssinia with
husband who then became Christian; could not live with him so stayed in Abyssinia; Prophet
sent proposal and marriage was conducted by Negus; went to Madina after six years; lived
with Prophet for four years before he died.
Safiyya bint Huyayy: brought to the Prophet after the Muslim victory at Khaybar; daughter
of the chief of Banu Nadir; Prophet invited her to Islam then proposed to her; other wives did
not always think favourably of her but Prophet always defended her.
Maymuna bint al-Harith: related to the Prophet and had always wanted to marry him; sent
proposal through her brother-in-law; Prophet accepted and they married when the Muslims
performed ‘Umra after the treaty of Hudaybiyya; after their marriage verse 33.52 revealed.
Maria al-Qibtiyya: sent as a gift from the ruler of Egypt; was a slave-girl; accepted into the
household of the Prophet after the treaty of Hudaybiyya; gave birth to the Prophet’s son
Ibrahim, who died when he was 8 months old; a solar eclipse coincided with his death to
which the Prophet clarified they are not related events.
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b)Candidates can offer any suggestions they want but should give explanation and reasoning
for their answers, which should be thoughtful and evaluative.
They could say, e.g., that the Prophet encourages men to look after their wives and that
those with good character treat their wife better than they treat others. 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.
Candidates could go on to say that 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.

3 (a) Describe the main events in the Prophet’s life before he was granted prophethood. [10]

(b) ‘The Prophet’s family was important in preparing him for prophethood.’ Agree or

disagree, giving reasons for your answer. [4]

(a) Candidates should write a detailed narrative elaborating on the points mentioned below.

He was born in the year of the elephant; his parents were Amina and Abdullah; as with the

custom of the time, he was sent to the desert with a wet nurse; Halima Sa’adia narrates that

they had good fortune with the arrival of the Prophet in their household, and asked that he

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

stay with them another two years; during this time, the incident of the angels coming to clean

his heart happened; Halima returned him to his mother; his mother died when he was six on

her way back from Yathrib; his grandfather looked after him and then Abu Talib when he was

eight; he went on trade journeys with Abu Talib and this is where Bahira the monk saw him;

he picked up arrows in the sacrilegious wars, and was present at the subsequent Fudul

confederacy; he was employed by Khadija to go on a trade journey to Syria and on account

of his honesty she sent a marriage proposal to him; he helped resolve the issue of the fixing

of the black stone; he spent longer periods in the cave of Hira and, at the age of 40, the

angel Jibril came with the first revelation.

(b) Candidates can agree or disagree, and relevant answers that try to justify their choice should

be credited.

They could agree and say, e.g. that his uncle was important for taking him on trade journeys

with him, which helped him to learn the trade that would provide for his family later on, and

also because of what Bahira told Abu Talib, he had a protector when the Muslims went

through difficult times in Makka. Khadija helped to give him financial independence which

allowed him more time for meditation.

They could disagree and say, e.g. that they were not important because the Prophet was

protected and guided by God, shown by the incident of the two angels coming to wash his

heart, or that his parents and grandparents died when he was young so they were not of help

for him in his prophethood.

4 (a) Write about the events surrounding the Treaty of Hudaybiyya and the main terms in it.[10]

(b) From this event, what can Muslims learn about the importance of keeping their word?[4]

(a) The Prophet had a dream where he entered Makka and did tawaf around the Ka’ba. In 628,

he and a group of 1,400 Muslims marched peacefully towards Makka, in an attempt to

perform umrah. The Muslims had left Madina in a state of ihram, so were prohibited from

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

fighting. The group camped outside of Makka, and the Prophet tried to negotiate entry to the

Ka’ba with the Quraysh, through intermediaries. The Quraysh were unwilling to let the

Prophet enter. Bait al-Ridwan influenced the Quraysh into negotiating a treaty. They sent

Suhayl ibn ‘Amr to negotiate a peace treaty, whereby the Muslims would go back to Makka

and not return for the pilgrimage until the next year. The treaty was for ten years; each party

was to be secure from the other; if a person from the Quraysh was to migrate to Madina, he

would be sent back to Makka; however, if a person from the Prophet’s side went to the

Quraysh, they did not have to hand him back; the Muslims were to go back to Madina without

performing umrah and return the next year for three days.

‘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’, Suhayl objected and instead the Prophet erased it and had ‘Ali write, ‘In

your name, O God’ and ‘Muhammad, son of ‘Abd Allah’, to which the Muslims protested. The

Khuza’a tribe made a pact with the Muslims and the Banu Bakr made a pact with the

Quraysh.

At that point, 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 shave 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)

Candidates may mention the treaty was dissolved two years later after the Banu Khuza’a

were attacked by the Quraysh, but it is not necessary for this answer, which is about the

forming of the treaty itself.

(b) The Prophet kept his word to the Quraysh for the duration of the treaty. Even before the

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

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.

Candidates can give other examples, but should expand on their answer with reasons.

5 (a) Write about the lives of the Prophet’s uncles, Hamza and Abu Sufyan. [10]

(b) Many of the people who had been enemies of the Prophet accepted Islam. What

lessons can Muslims learn from this? [4]

(a) Hamza: he was an uncle and foster-brother of the Prophet; he was a warrior and sportsman

and had little interest in the issues of Makkah; he hit Abu Jahl when he heard Abu Jahl had

assaulted the Prophet; after that he became Muslim; it gave the Muslims a lot of strength and

they were able to pray in public; in the battle of Badr, he killed leading men of the Quraysh

including Hind’s father Utbah; she vowed revenge and hired Washi to kill Hamza which he

did at the battle of Uhud; he was given the title ‘chief of Martyrs’, and the Prophet led his

funeral prayer.

Abu Sufyan: he was a prominent and powerful figure among the Quraysh, and a staunch

opponent of the Prophet and the Muslims. It was his caravan returning from Syria that was

the basis for the battle of Badr, and candidates could give details of his involvement in this

event. After the loss at Badr, revenge was sought and Abu Sufyan led the Quraysh army to

Uhud. His wife Hind also went seeking revenge for the death of her father. After Uhud, Abu

Sufyan vowed to fight again and the next time they met was at the Battle of the Trench. After

the Quraysh broke the treaty of Hudaybiyya, Abu Sufyan went to Madina to attempt to

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restore the treaty, but without success; he subsequently converted when the Prophet

marched towards Makka, and the Prophet honoured him despite his fierce opposition for

many years. At Ta’if, Abu Sufyan lost an eye, and at Yarmouk he lost the other; he was

made governor of Narjan; he died aged 90 in Madina.

(b) Candidates could say, e.g. that their conversions show the importance of forgiveness in

Islam, and that anyone, even if once an enemy of Islam, can become one of God’s servants.

This means that people should not judge others, or be cruel to them, as it is just as possible

for them to become Muslim as anyone else.

Or, that people should know that no matter what they have done in their lives, if they are

sorry for what they have done then they can be forgiven by God.

Wahshi and Hind are good examples of those who became Muslim.

Candidates can write about other lessons, but they must give reasons for their answer.

4 (a) The Prophet died in 632. Write about the events of the final year of his life. [10]
(b) The Farewell Sermon given by the Prophet contains teachings for Muslims of all times. Explain
how two of these teachings can be applied today. [4]
(a) The Prophet received many delegations in the final year of his life. In 631/10AH, the Prophet
performed his final pilgrimage; at ‘Arafah he addressed the people gathered there; this is
considered his farewell speech, in which he indicated he may not be there the following year;
he also gave instructions for unlawful shedding of blood; usury was forbidden; the obligation
towards looking after wives was emphasised as well as the kind treatment of women; sticking
faithfully to the pillars of Islam was emphasised; equality of humankind was emphasised
saying no Arab has superiority over a non-Arab and vice versa; brotherhood was
established; he told them the Qur’an and sunna were left for them and reminded them they
would have to answer for their deeds; then the verses 5.3 were revealed (today your religion
has been perfected); the Prophet completed his pilgrimage and returned to Madina; he
increased his seclusion; Jibril reviewed the Qur’an twice with him; his illness began 13 days
before his death; he moved into A’isha’s apartment for the last week; he continued leading
the prayers and would give the congregation advice; he called for Fatima, Hassan and
Hussain and his wives; Abu Bakr led prayers in the last days; the Prophet passed away on
12th Rabi al-Awwal, 11AH. Shi’a candidates may say that on the way back from Makka the
Prophet chose ‘Ali as his successor.
Candidates could go on to mention the grief of the Companions and the speech that Abu
Bakr gave them to remind them about worshipping God, but it is not necessary for a full
answer.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(b) 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.
Candidates can choose any two of these to write about but should elaborate on how these
points in the sermon can be applied in life today.

5 (a) The Prophet allowed some of the early Muslims to move to Abyssinia. Write about the events
of this migration. [10]
(b) Can this migration be compared to the migration of some Muslims today? Give
reasons for your answer. [4]
(a) Good answers should be able to narrate the story of the migration to Abyssinia with
considerable detail, being able to name the main Muslims involved.
The Muslims in Makka, mainly those without tribal protection and slaves, were being
persecuted by the Quraysh; an ayat was revealed about the earth being spacious for
believers (39.10); the Prophet allowed some followers to go to Abyssinia to seek protection
from its king, Negus, in the 5th year of prophethood (614/615); ‘Uthman and Ruqayya went in
the first migration of 12 men and 4 women, whereupon the Quraysh chased them but the
migrants managed to board a boat before the Quraysh got to them; some came back from
Abyssinia when they falsely heard that the Quraysh had accepted Islam; the persecutions
increased and later the second delegation, of 83 men and 19 women, was led by the
Prophet’s cousin, Ja’far Ibn Abi Talib; ‘Amr ibn al-‘As and ‘Abdullah bin Abi Rabi’a followed
them and asked the king to return the Muslims; the Negus called the Muslims to give their
account; Ja’far told him of the way they lived before Islam, and also recited verses from Sura
Maryam; this moved the Negus to tears and he allowed the Muslims to stay in Abyssinia in
peace and freedom; the Quraysh envoys were given their gifts back and sent away. The
Muslims lived here in peace until they moved to Madina.
Excellent answers will give in-depth details of the story, name the Muslims who migrated,
and elaborate on any points mentioned.
(b) Muslims around the world are facing persecution, such as in Syria, and are migrating to other
countries like Jordan and Turkey, where they are being allowed to live in freedom. However,
it is not like the migration to Abyssinia as the current migrants usually live in refugee camps,
where resources are limited.
The migration to Abyssinia can also be compared to Muslims migrating to non-Muslim
countries, where they are given freedom to live and work, but sometimes not everyone
welcomes them.
It may be said it is not comparable to migration of Muslims now, e.g. economic migration.
Many Muslims now move for work and financial reasons, so it is not similar.
These are just examples of what could be said; candidates can give any number of answers
but must expand on their points with reasons.

3 (a) The Prophet was described as humble and just. Giving examples from his life, write about
events that describe these qualities. [10]
(b) How can Muslims today apply the Prophet’s example of humility when dealing with
either friends or strangers? [4]
(a) Candidates should give examples of the Prophet’s characteristics and give details of events
where these characteristics were shown.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Humble: The Prophet would not think of himself as above the other companions, like a king,
and would take part in all the tasks the rest of the community would, like digging the Trench
in battle despite his hunger, or taking part in the building of the mosque in Madina. He would
take part in household chores, like cleaning and mending his garments, milking the goats,
etc., and would not expect others to do it for him. He would sit on the floor and eat, saying, “I
am only a servant, I eat like a servant or a slave eats, and I sit as any servant sits.” When the
Prophet entered Makka after the conquest, he did not enter with a big display of victory;
rather he was riding at the back of the army remembering and thanking God. He was so
hunched over that his beard was touching the back of his animal.
Just: He did not treat those he knew or was related to differently to those who were
strangers. Once, a noble woman of the Quraysh committed theft. Her relatives tried to
intercede on her behalf. The Prophet called the people saying: “What destroyed your
predecessors was just that when a person of rank among them committed a theft (or any
crime), they left him alone, but when a weak one of their number committed a theft (or any
crime), they inflicted the prescribed punishment on him. I swear by Allah that if Fatimah,
daughter of Muhammad, should steal, I would have her hand cut off.” Many Jews of Madina
brought their affairs and problems to him, knowing that he would always be fair. In
administering justice, he made no distinction between believers and nonbelievers, friends
and foes, high and low. When 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.
Candidates can give other examples but should give details of them.
(b) Candidates could say, e.g. that Muslims can be humble by eating with their servants, or the
same food as their servants, or not treating them any differently to their own family; they can
take part in tasks to help the community such as looking after and cleaning the mosque; they
can help their family by doing chores and not thinking they are too busy for it; if they are in
positions of authority at work, they should not try to treat their workers badly to show who is
boss, but should treat them fairly and equally.
These are just some examples; candidates can give others but should elaborate on the
points made.

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]

(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]

(a) Candidates should be able to say who the al-Ansar (Helpers) were and who the al-Muhajirun
(Emigrants) were. Good answers will be able to write about the first Muslim community in Madina,
giving brief details about the emigrants and their difficulties in Makka. They could mention how the
emigrants arrived in Madina without many belongings. The Muslims of Madina (mainly from the Aws
and Khazraj tribes), who had invited the Prophet to their city, were happy to welcome the migrating
Muslims. To unite the two groups, the Prophet made them brothers, pairing each of the Ansar with the
Muhajirun. The Prophet took ‘Ali as his brother. Sa’d bin ar-Rabi and Abdur Rahman bin Awf were made
brothers and Sa’d was willing to share half his property and divorce his wife for Abdur Rahman to marry.
He refused, preferring to work himself. The Ansar wanted to share their date palms with the Muhajirun

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

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. Candidates should give details of
this relationship using examples of what they shared, and how their relationship developed. Candidates
could also make reference to any Qur’anic ayats relating to these events (9:20; 9:100; 9:117; 59:8–9).
The best answers will write about the character of the relationship in terms of cooperation and
selflessness, etc.

(b) Candidates can provide any examples that are relevant but should develop the answers they give and
not just provide statements. They could say that 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 or Syria, and should help provide them with food and shelter if they can. Muslims
should always look to what they have and what they can offer other people who are in need, like warm
clothes in the winter. Giving up extra items has more reward than keeping them and will create better
relations in the community.

a) Angel Jibril brought revelations to Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬at different times and
places.Give examples to show how this took place. 10

b) What was the significance of the Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬being given the revelation
by word rather than in writing? 4

Answers here should not give a narrative of the first revelation in the cave of Hira, though brief
mention of it is fine.
Candidates could mention that the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet over a period of 23
years, and not as a complete book. After the first revelation, sura al-‘Alaq, revelation stopped for
a period which caused the Prophet to worry. Once they started again they came strongly and
frequently.
More detailed answers will mention that there were different ways in which the verses were
revealed to the Prophet. Sometimes the Angel Jibril would come in the form of a man, which the
companions witnessed, and 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.
They were not within his control (sura 75:16–19), he had no idea when they were coming and
they were safeguarded by God.
Candidates could also give specific examples of verses that were revealed to the Prophet in
different circumstances, or narrate stories related to these revelations, such as the pressure that
it put on Zayd’s thigh when he was sitting next to the Prophet during one of the revelations, or
that the revelations were responses to specific events, e.g. the revelation during the migration
when Abu Bakr was worried (sura tawba:40).
Better candidates may mention that the Prophet also received revelation directly from God
during the night journey.
(b) Candidates should be careful not to give statements, but try to qualify their answers with some
reasoning.
Candidates could say that 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

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

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.

(a) Write about the main events of two of the following battles: Khaybar, Mu’ta, Hunain,
Tabuk. [10]
(b) Choose one of the four battles mentioned and explain what Muslim leaders now can
learn from it. [4]
(a) Khaybar: fought in 628 (7AH) against the Jews who had broken their agreements with the
Muslims; Muslim army caught the city by surprise; ‘Ali was given the banner to carry; Muslims
attacked the first fort of Naim; this was taken and the Muslims carried on until they reached the
most powerful fort, An-Nizar/Qamus; ‘Ali is said to have moved a door by himself which would
have taken many men to move; Jewish leader was killed; Jews requested they stay in the oasis
and in return give half their produce to the Muslims; battle strengthened the Muslims and the
Prophet’s leadership.
Mu’ta: this was the fiercest battle during the Prophet’s lifetime; fought in 629 (8AH); The
Prophet had sent Al-Harith bin ‘Umair al-Azdi carrying a letter to the ruler of Basra; he was
intercepted and killed by the governor of al-Balqa’; the Prophet mobilised an army of 3000
men; people near the scene of al-Harith’s murder would be invited to Islam and if they
accepted no battle would ensue; Zaid bin Haritha was to lead the army, Ja’far bin Abu Talib
would replace him, and ‘Abdullah bin Rawaha would replace Ja’far if he fell; Heraclius sent
100,000 troops with another 100,000 from tribes allied to the Byzantines; Khalid bin Walid
stepped up to take leadership and showed his skills as a strategist; the Muslims gradually
retreated and the Byzantines, thinking they were entrapped, stopped their pursuit allowing
the Muslims to incur minimal casualties.
Hunain: The sects of Hawazin and Thaqif did not want to submit to Islam so they decided to
fight against the Muslims; the Prophet marched to meet them with 12,000 men; the enemy
were already waiting for the Muslim army, hiding and waiting to hurl stones and arrows at
them; when this happened, the enemy attack became fierce and the Muslims started to
retreat; the Prophet called his troops back and they went on to defeat the army; because
their leader Malik bin ‘Awf had told everyone to take their families and belongings with them,
the Muslims captured huge spoils of war. This battle is mentioned in sura tawba, v25.
Tabuk: took place in 9AH; the Byzantines were wary of the growing Muslim power and
wanted to defeat them before they became too big or powerful to conquer; the Nabateans
brought news to Madina of a big and powerful army that Heraclius was preparing; the
Prophet made a decision to go to war and meet the Byzantines on their border; they
marched to Tabuk with 30,000 men; the Muslims had donated generously for this expedition;
they faced many hardships on the way; once at Tabuk they stayed some days, but the
Byzantine army did not arrive; the Prophet took control of some of the tribes on the border;
on return to Madina the Muslim’s reputation as a powerful force reached far and wide, and
many delegations came to visit him after this event.
Not all of the above needs to be mentioned, but most of points should be made as well as
development of the points to give depth to the answer.
(b) Candidates can choose any battle to write about, even if they have not written about it in part
(a). They can offer a number of lessons for Muslim leaders, but they should try to give detail/
explain their answers in an evaluative manner.

a) Give an account of the way in which the Prophet started to preach Islam in the first

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

few years after he began to receive the revelation. [10]

(b) Was it significant that the Prophet began preaching the message in secret? [4]
(a) Answers should focus on the Prophet’s deliverance of the message, and not the
events of the revelation itself, although brief mention of it is fine.
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. After verses from sura Mudaththir were revealed to him, the revelation came
frequently and regularly. The main message at this point was to reject idols and believe in
one God.
For three years the Prophet taught and practised in secret. The first converts were those who
were close to him in his household, such as Khadija, Zayd bin Harith and ‘Ali ibn Abu Talib.
After this Abu Bakr the Prophet’s close friend, converted. Abu Bakr invited many people to
Islam, and many prominent companions became Muslim through him.
The Prophet would meet and teach these new converts in secret from the revelations he was
continuing to receive. The Muslims prayed twice a day and would retreat to the mountains to
do so.
After there were more than 40 or so converts it could not be kept a secret any more. Then
sura 26:214 was revealed to preach the message openly. He called his own clan to dinner;
Abu Lahab rejected the message while Abu Talib promised protection. Then the Prophet
called the people of Makka to the mount of Safa and told them about the new faith and
believing in one God. His message was rejected. After this persecutions started on the early
converts but Makkans continued to convert to Islam.
Candidates should give details in their answer and need to avoid giving a narrative about the
persecutions.
(b) Candidates could say that 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.
Candidates could also say that it was not significant, for example, because they were only
preaching in secret because they were unsure about the message, or had very little to tell
people in terms of what had been revealed.
Candidates can offer their own answers but need to give reasons.

(a) Write about the role played by Abu Bakr during the period between the first revelation
and the death of the Prophet. [10]
(a) For this answer, candidates should give a detailed account of the main events in Abu Bakr’s
life with the Prophet. Abu Bakr was the Prophet’s childhood friend, and the first to accept
Islam. He was a staunch supporter of the Prophet, and was open about practising Islam. He
would buy slaves and set them free. He guided others to accept Islam. He set off to
Abyssinia but returned when his friend offered him protection. He did not hesitate to believe
the Prophet when he told the people about his night journey and ascension. He was the
Prophet’s companion during the migration to Madina, and the Qur’an mentions him as one of
two in the cave, in reference to this journey. He gave his daughter in marriage to the Prophet.
He participated in all the major battles and gave his wealth in the battle of Tabuk. He was a
witness to the Treaty of Hudaibiyah. When the Prophet passed many companions refused to
believe it, and it was Abu Bakr who came to address them telling them that Muhammad
(pbuh) has passed away but Allah is alive and will never die. He was elected as caliph soon
after this.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(b) What lessons can Muslims learn from Abu Bakr’s conduct in this period, and how are
these lessons relevant now? [4]

(b) Candidates could write about stories of friendship and loyalty, or about belief and strong
faith, or other points mentioned about his life, but as well as mentioning them they should
give concrete examples of how these could be applied in people’s lives, so e.g. showing how
Muslims can be loyal to their friends, or how Muslims could give their wealth to benefit the
Muslim community in times of need.

4 (a) Give an account of the Prophet’s life up to the time the revelations began. [10]

(a) Candidates should write a detailed narrative elaborating on any of the points mentioned
below.
He was born in the year of the elephant; his parents were Amina and Abdullah; as with the
custom of the time, he was sent to the desert with a wet nurse; Halima Sa’adia narrates that
they had good fortune with the arrival of the Prophet in their household, and ask he stay with
them another two years; during this time the incident of the angels coming to clean his heart
happened; Halima returned him to his mother; his mother died when he was six on the way
back from Yathrib; his grandfather looked after him and then Abu Talib when he was eight;
he went on trade journeys with Abu Talib and this is where Bahira the monk saw him; he
picked up arrows in the sacrilegious wars, and was present at the subsequent Fudul
confederacy; he was employed by Khadija to go on a trade journey to Syria and on account
of his honesty she sent a marriage proposal to him; they had six children together; he helped
resolve the issue of the fixing of the black stone; he spent longer periods in the cave of Hira
and at age of 40 the angel Jibril came with the first revelation.

(b) Despite living through the days of ignorance, the Prophet remained true to his
mission. What lessons can Muslims learn from this today? [4]

(b) Candidates could choose one or two events from the life of the Prophet and explain how he
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. Despite living in age of immorality, he was known as ‘al-amin’, the trustworthy.
Candidates could explain how when 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.
These are just some examples, candidates could offer their own but must give a reason to
explain what they have written.

3 (a) Describe the events of the Prophet’s visit to Ta’if. [10]

(a) The Prophet had been preaching to the people of Makka for ten years and they had faced
many hardships; the number of Muslims was relatively small; his greatest supporters Khadija
and Abu Talib had passed away; he looked out of Makka to preach his message and went to
Ta’if with Zaid bin Haritha; he thought people would be favourable to his message but they
were hostile towards him; he stayed ten days there delivering the message to the people, but
he was abused and jeered; they were chased out by being pelted with stones til blood flowed
down the Prophet’s legs; Zaid was injured too; they took refuge in an orchard a few miles
away; seeing his condition, Rabi’a’s two sons sent their servant with a tray of grapes; Jibril
later appeared with another angel and asked the Prophet for permission to bury the city; the
Prophet refused and instead prayed for believers to be born from their progeny.

15
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

The best answers will be able to expand and give depth to these events, and whilst not all of
the above needs to be mentioned, highest level answers will describe and elaborate on most
of these details.

(b) How can Muslims apply in practice the lessons learnt from the Prophet’s behaviour in this
situation? [4]
Candidates can present any lesson that’s relevant to the events of Ta’if, but thoughtful
answers will present the lesson within the context of a situation.
Examples could be, that 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 Islam or the Prophet, but
should try to do or say good things for them.

(a) The Prophet Muhammad(‫ )ﷺ‬is said to have been patient and trustworthy. Write about
events in his life that illustrate these qualities. [10]
(a) Candidates should write about events that show these traits in the Prophet, and they should
give a detailed narration of the event rather than list a few occurrences.
His patience: This was shown through the persecutions, when he was abused and ridiculed,
but he did not give up preaching; he did not react when rubbish was thrown on him; when he
was offered bribes by the Quraysh he refused and persevered, even through the boycott; he
waited until God guided him to migrate; he was patient when revelations stopped for periods
of time; he showed patience when the Quraysh ridiculed him after the death of his son.
Trustworthiness: He had always been trusted by the Quraysh even before prophethood,
being called al-amin; the Quraysh kept their belongings with him even after prophethood;
when he migrated to Madina he returned the belongings to their owners (through ‘Ali); he
kept his promises, e.g. as part of the Treaty of Hudaibiya, the Prophet sent back Muslims to
Makka who had not sought consent to leave.
These are some answers that could be offered but candidates may have others that they can
develop.
(b) Choose one of these qualities and explain why it was important for the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬to
possess it. [4]
(b) Candidates should choose one of the above qualities and give reasons as to why it was
necessary for the Prophet to have that quality.
For example, the Prophet needed to be patient because he was going to endure years of
hardships and becoming angry or giving up would not have been suited to a Prophet and
would not have allowed Islam to endure.
Or, being trustworthy at all times allowed people to have faith in him and his message when
he started to preach as they knew that his quality of being trustworthy was unshakeable.
Candidates could give any relevant example of why the Prophet should have had that quality
but the development of the answer is what will give the candidate higher marks.

3 (a) Write about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬night journey and ascension [al-‘isra wa-mi’raj]. [10]

Candidates should talk about the events of the night journey as they happened.

16
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

They could talk about the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬being woken from his sleep and taken on al-Buraq from
Makka to Jerusalem by the angel Jibril. They could mention all the things that he saw on his
way, the prophets that he met, the questions that he asked Jibril, and the fact that he led the
prophets in prayer. They should also go on to mention that he was taken through the heavens
and was finally in the presence of his Lord. He was given the five daily prayers.
Answers should also mention that this all took place in one night, and what the people of Makka
said when he told them about his journey.

(b) How did this journey help the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬in his mission? [4]

Candidates should give thoughtful answers as to how this event could have been beneficial
for the Prophet(‫)ﷺ‬.
They could mention that it gave him comfort after a period of difficulty in Makka, and he
realised God had not left him.
It gave him the encouragement he needed to carry on preaching in the face of continued
opposition.
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). It confirmed
his prophethood as he met with God, going further than anyone else had been.
Candidates do not have to mention all of the above, but should have some depth to any
answers they give.

4 (a) Give an account of the migration of the early Muslims to Abyssinia. [10]

Good answers should be able to narrate the story of the migration to Abyssinia with
considerable detail, being able to name the main Muslims involved.
Answers could give an account of the persecution faced by Muslims in Makka and why these
persecutions had increased on the Prophet’s followers; that the Prophet ordered some followers
to go to Abyssinia to seek protection from its just king; ‘Uthman and Ruqayya went in the first
migration, and later the second delegation was led by the Prophet’s cousin, Ja’far Ibn Abi Talib;
the Quraysh followed them and asked the king to return them; and what happened when Ja’far
spoke and then recited verses of Sura Maryam to the king.
Excellent answers will give in-depth details of the story as it happened, name the Muslims who
migrated, as well as saying why these particular Muslims took part.

(b) What was the significance of this migration for the early Muslim community? [4]

Candidates could mention that the Muslims being persecuted meant they could not establish
their religion in Makka, and moving to Abyssinia allowed them religious freedom. Those not
willing to renounce Islam were in danger of torture or death. The migration therefore
safeguarded the new converts to Islam and the future Muslim community. Importantly, it was
the Prophet who encouraged them to go. They migrated to Madina once the Prophet had
completed his hijr

17
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(a) Write about the brotherhood that developed between the new community of Muslims
in Madina. [10]
Candidates should be able write about the brotherhood created by the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬in Madina
between the Ansar and Muhajirun.
Good answers will be able to write about the first Muslim community in Madina, saying who
the Ansar and Muhajirun were, giving brief details about the emigrants and their difficulties in
Makka. They could mention how the emigrants arrived in Madina without many belongings.
The people of Madina (the Aws and Khazraj tribes), who had invited the Prophet to their city,
were happy to welcome the migrating Muslims. To unite the two groups, the Prophet made
them brothers, pairing each of the Ansar with the Muhajirun. Candidates could mention
some of the companions who were made brothers of each other, e.g. Abdul Rahman ibn Awf
was made the brother of Sa’ad ibn Al-Rabee (of the Ansar); the Prophet took Ali as his
brother. In this way the Madinans gave protection and material assistance to their Makkan
brothers. The Makkans gave spiritual support to the Madinans, by virtue of the fact they had
spent time with the Prophet. The Makkans did not want to be a burden on their hosts as they
were used to being traders and so wanted to carry on their work in Madina (e.g. Abu Bakr).
Candidates could give details of this relationship using examples of what they shared, and
how their relationship developed.
Candidates could also make reference to any Qur’anic ayat relating to these events (9:20;
9:100).

(b) How is this brotherhood a good example for Muslim communities now? [4]
(b) Answers here should reflect upon the relationship between these two groups and write about
how it can be relevant to Muslim communities.
Candidates could write about being selfless, sharing material belongings with others
(whether to friends/family or charity), or they could mention giving loyalty and protection to
others. Good answers will not only give reference to these qualities but will say how they
can help improve the Muslim community.

(a) Write an account of the battle of Badr. [10]

It was fought in 2AH (624CE); the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬and a group of around 300 men set off to intercept
a caravan led by Abu Sufyan; they had 2 horses and 70 camels; Abu Sufyan sent word to the
Quraysh and an army of 1300 men was gathered; Abu Sufyan slipped past the ambush and
sent word to the Quraysh to go back but Abu Jahl insisted they continued; some left leaving
1000 soldiers; the Prophet consulted his companions and they went to meet the Quraysh
army at Badr; it rained heavily that night; the Muslims camped near a water well; the next day
the battle started and ‘Ali, Hamza and ‘Ubaidah went out to fight and won their duels; the
Prophet prayed continuously for the success of the believers; God sent down angels to help;
the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬threw some dust which caused a sandstorm (sura 8:17); eventually the Makkans
ran off; Abu Jahl was killed; fourteen Muslims were killed and 70 from the Quraysh while 70
were taken prisoner.
Candidates should elaborate on the points above to get to the higher levels, and better
candidates should be able to give the names of significant figures involved [Abu Bakr, ‘Ali,
Abd ar-Rahman bin Awf, Bilal, Hamza, Abu Jahl, etc.]
(b) Can the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬conduct during this battle contain lessons for military leaders
today? Give reasons for your answer. [4]

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Candidates can agree or disagree with this statement but they have to give valid reasons as
to why they have chosen their answer.
If agreeing that there can be lessons for military leaders today they could say e.g. that the
Prophet participated in the battles himself and leaders now may learn more or change the
way that they fight wars if they had a more active role on the battlefield.
If saying that there aren’t lessons for military leaders, candidates could perhaps say that
modern warfare is very different to that of the past and so the rules and conduct cannot be
the same.
Different answers may be given but candidates must give reasons whether they agree or
disagree.
4 (a) Describe the events of the final year of the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬life. [10]
In 10AH, the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬performed his final pilgrimage; at ‘Arafah he addressed the people
gathered there; this is considered his farewell speech, in which he indicated he may not be
there the following year; he also gave instructions relating to unlawful shedding of blood;
usury was forbidden; the obligation towards looking after wives was emphasised as well as
the kind treatment of women; equality of humankind was emphasised; brotherhood was
established; he told them the Qur’an and sunna were left for them, and mentioned the five
pillars; then the verses 5.3 were revealed (today your religion has been perfected); the
Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬completed his pilgrimage and returned to Madina; he increased his seclusion; Jibril
reviewed the Qur’an twice with him; his illness began 13 days before his death; he moved
into A’isha’s apartment for the last week; he continued leading the prayers and would give
the congregation advice; he called for Fatima, Hassan and Hussain and his wives; Abu Bakr
led prayers in the last days; the Prophet passed away on 12th Rabi al-Awwal, 11AH. Shi’a
candidates may say that on the way back from Makka the Prophet chose ‘Ali as his
successor.
Candidates could go on to mention the grief of the Companions and the speech that Abu
Bakr gave them to remind them about worshipping God, but it is not necessary for a full
answer.
Not everything mentioned above is required, but answers must show development of the
main events written about to be able to go up to the higher levels.
(b) Explain how any two teachings given in the Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬Farewell Sermon can help
Muslim communities 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 relation to 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.
Candidates can choose any two of these to write about but should elaborate on how these
points in the sermon can address and solve current issues.

(a) Give an account of the events surrounding the Pledges of ‘Aqaba and the main details
in them. [10]

Good answers will be able to provide a detailed and concise narrative of events that occurred
between the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬and the people of Yathrib.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Answers could talk about the Prophet’s attempts to spread Islam outside Makka without
success. Soon after the events of al-Ta’if he met six men in Makka, who had come from
Yathrib for the annual pilgrimage. They became Muslim and returned to Makka the following
year with more people (12) who took an oath at ‘Aqaba in 621 which is known as the First
Pledge of ‘Aqaba. Musab bin Umair sent with them to teach them about Islam. The following
year more people came to take the oath with the Prophet (70). They invited the Prophet to
come to Yathrib as their leader. The Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬told Muslims to start migrating.
Initially the six men said they would go back and tell people about the Prophe (‫)ﷺ‬t. The first
pledge
had details relating to worshipping one God, not stealing, committing adultery, killing their
children, not slandering or disobeying the Prophet. The second pledge was to listen to and obey
the Prophet, to spend in plenty as well as scarcity, to enjoin good and forbid evil, fear no one but
Allah and defend the Prophet if he needs it.
The best answers will be able to give details of the number of pledges, the number of
Yathribites/Madinans involved and the names of some key figures, the main details of what
was in the pledges, and an indication of the result of the pledges.

(b) How were these pledges important for the future community of Muslims? [4]

Good answers could give some insight as to what important lessons they provide for
Muslims.
Candidates could mention that the pledges set the foundation for a Muslim community to live
in harmony and with religious freedom. They brought a change to the conditions of the
Muslims and allowed Islam to be established. Ideas in the pledges still hold true for today,
like the pledge to not kill their children.

(a) Describe the persecution faced by

the first Muslims in Makka. [10]

Candidates should give a detailed narrative of the persecutions faced by the first Muslims in
the days after the Prophet started preaching Islam.
Good answers will be able to name key figures involved in the persecution, and the names of
the Muslims who were being persecuted, stating that it included slaves and those without
tribal protection. They could talk about the type of difficulties they faced and give an account
of the persecutions.
Good answers will be able to present their narratives in a clear and comprehensive manner
without confusing details.
Some of the information that could be mentioned: Abu Jahl put foetus of camel on the
Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬back; Abu Lahab flung stones on the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬and made his sons
divorce the
Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬daughters; ‘Uthman was wrapped in leaves by his uncle and set on fire; Bilal
severely beaten by his master Umaiyah, and deprived of food and drink etc; Ammar bin
Yasser, beaten severely and made to lie on hot embers; his father died due to severe
tortures, his mother Sumayyah was bayoneted to death; Harith bin Hala, blacksmith, tortured
and killed; there was the boycott to Shib i Abi Talib and the migration to Abyssinia.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(b) What can Muslims in modern times learn from these stories? [4]

Answers should reflect on the accounts the candidates have given in part (a) and be able to
put their answers in a modern context. They may be able to say e.g. that Muslims should
remain firm in their faith under all circumstances, but the better answers will be able to give
clear examples from the lives of Muslims or the world they live in as to how and in what
circumstances they should remain steadfast.
Better answers will refer to (a) but not repeat the description, rather will explain the
accounts/stories in a modern context or related to everyday lives.

(a) Describe three qualities of the Prophet Muhammad(‫ )ﷺ‬that make him a model for
humankind. [10]
Candidates can write about any three qualities of the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬that show how he can be a
role
model for others.
Examples they can choose are: his forgiveness, for example when he forgave his enemies after
the conquest of Makka and his mercy, for example when he went to preach at al-Ta’if, he
showed mercy to the inhabitants when the Angel Jibra’il offered to crush them between the
mountains [there has to be a clear distinction between forgiveness and mercy for them to be two
separate qualities, otherwise they should only be counted as one]; his fairness, for example
when he judged in a favour of a Jew over a Muslim during a disagreement between the two; his
patience, for example when the Quraysh mocked him when there was a break in revelation.
Candidates can offer other qualities, but they should give examples to show what the Prophet
said/did and how it made him stand out from other people.
Good answers will provide detailed examples with relevant quotations.

(b) How can Muslims put one of these qualities into practice? [4]

Good answers for this part will take one of the qualities described in part (a) and show how it
can be put into practice in the lives of Muslims, or how it can be demonstrated in wider
society.
Better answers will give more detailed examples and cite specific situations, rather than
saying something general like, Muslims should be forgiving to others who have wronged
them.
(a) Write about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬relationship with the following figures: Aminah, Halimah
Sa’adiah and Abu Talib. [10]

Candidates here should give brief descriptions of the role these three personalities played in
the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬life. Better answers will mention the relationship between these figures and
the
Prophet and narrate key events in their lives.
With reference to Aminah, candidates could briefly mention the events surrounding the
Prophet’s birth, that he did not spend much time with his mother (being sent for nursing),
when he was reunited with his mother they travelled to Yathrib to meet his family, that she

21
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

died on the way back from Yathrib, and that after prophethood he wept at her grave.
Halimah Sa’adiah: candidates could write about how she came to be the Prophet’s wetnurse,
how her and her family’s fortunes changed whilst the Prophet was with them, that she
asked to keep the Prophet for longer than the initial two year period; that she was shaken by
the story of the two angels who came to clean the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬heart, after which she returned
the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬to his mother. The Prophet was known to call Halimah ‘my mother’.
Abu Talib: candidates could write about how he came to be guardian of the Prophet, that he
loved the Prophet like his own son. They could also mention their trade journeys together
and how Abu Talib reacted to his prophethood. He also provided the Prophet with protection
in Makka due to his position, but suffered with him during the boycott.

(b) What can these relationships teach Muslims today about family ties? [4]

Candidates should reflect upon the relationship the Prophet had with these figures and write
about how they teach Muslims about their relationship with their family.
Good answers could mention that despite not having spent a lot of time with his mother he
still had an emotional attachment to her in particular when he visited her grave. So Muslims
should not forget their parents after they are gone and pray for them. They could also
mention that although Halimah was not his biological mother, he gave her the same respect
as his own mother due to the time he spent with her and her family (he stretched out his
mantle for her when she visited him after prophethood). This shows the respect that should
be given to those who look after you in childhood. Candidates could also talk about the bond
between the Prophet and Abu Talib, and how he loved and respected Abu Talib when he
wasn’t Muslim. This is an important example for people who have family members who are
not Muslim.

(a) Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s(‫ )ﷺ‬interaction with the Quraysh while he lived in
Makka, before and after revelation. [10]

Good answers will be able to provide a detailed and concise narrative of events that occurred
between the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬and the Quraysh.
Candidates should talk about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬status in the community prior to Islam. They
could talk about the fact that the Prophet was known as ‘Al-Amin’ or the trustworthy. They
could mention, using examples, that prior to his Prophethood, the Quraysh used to consult
him in important matters, trust him with their goods, and look to him for advice. For example
they could mention that when the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬was younger he was chosen by the Quraysh to
settle the dispute of who should replace the sacred black stone to its position at the Ka’ba.
Answers should also mention that after Prophethood, the Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬was rejected
when he invited the Quraysh to Islam. He was taunted, mocked and openly humiliated by
different members of the Quraysh. The best answers will include details of events before the
period of revelation and after revelation.
(b) Why did the Quraysh feel they needed to reject the Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬message? [4]
Good answers here will be able to mention that the Quraysh had their own belief system and
that they worshipped many idols opposed to the Prophet Muhammad’s message of

22
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

monotheism. By changing their ways, they faced losing their status and position as leaders
and keepers of the Ka’ba. They also faced losing income, felt threatened by the Prophet’s
influence upon the youth of Makka, and his growing support. This should not just be a
description of the reasons, candidates should include evaluation.

(a) Describe the Prophet’s conduct as leader in two of the battles he fought in. [10]

Candidates can mention his conduct in any two battles, but should remain focused on the
Prophet’s conduct rather than giving a narrative of the whole battle. Basic answers will
describe the actual events in which the Prophet took part. Better answers will describe his
conduct as leader rather than focussing on the actual events of the battles.
Some points that candidates should mention include: that the Prophet constantly turned to
God for help, that he would take opinions from others, he was patient and did not fight out of
anger, that he treated captives/prisoners of war well, and that he took part in all the battles
himself.
Candidates could also mention other points as long as they are relevant to the battles and to
his position as leader. Good answers will be able to relate examples and events and give
the names of the battles they happened in.
(b) What can Muslim leaders today learn from the Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬conduct in their relations with
other states? [4]
Good answers here will be able to take at least one of the examples of the Prophet’s conduct
and show some evaluation of how that conduct is relevant to modern lives and in particular
the way in which Muslim leaders deal with others. Candidates should show how the
Prophet’s way of dealing with things is still relevant today.

(a) Describe the main difficulties encountered by the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬himself during his time in
Makka after his call to prophethood. [10]

Candidates should write a detailed account of the difficulties faced by the prophet, and
should write about the events as they happened.
Candidates could give a brief description of the Prophet beginning to preach openly after
years of secret worship, including an account of when he stood on the hill and made his
speech declaring his faith, and the reaction of the Quraysh. They could go on to give a
description of the subsequent mocking and torture he faced, mentioning the key figures
involved in the persecutions, and mention of the tolerance and patience of the Prophet. They
could also include relevant references from the Qur’an.
(b) How does his conduct in one of these difficulties provide an example for Muslims
today? [4]
Candidates should take one of the incidents mentioned in part (a) and comment on how it
can be used as an example to Muslims.
They should give a brief mention of one incident, e.g. throwing intestines on Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬,
preaching at Ta’if, etc., and elaborate by saying how the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬reacted and the
characteristics displayed e.g. patience, tolerance, forgiveness. They should then go on to
give an example of how this could be related to a present day situation. Better answers will
be able to give a detailed explanation of how the prophet’s morals give guidance for the
contemporary situation.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(a) Outline the main events of the Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬journey from Makka to Madina. [10]
Candidates should be able to write a detailed narrative tracing the main events as they
occurred on his journey to Madina.
Candidates could give brief background information relating to the threat in Makka and his
departure, and mention by name the key figures involved in the threat and his departure.
They should mention that he left with his companion Abu Bakr, and give a detailed account
of their journey and their stay in Cave Thawr. They could also mention their stay at Quba as
well as giving some details of their arrival in Madina. Better answers will be able to mention
all the key figures involved, the events as they unfolded and be able to quote relevant
Qur’anic verses.

(b) What was the significance of this journey for the Muslims? [4]

For this part, candidates should look to show some reflection and understanding behind the
reasons for leaving Makka, and not repeat the narrative provided in (a). They could give a
basic mention of the threat to the Prophet and the believers and why there was little success
with preaching. They could mention that the Madinans were inviting him and give reflections
on how his migration saved Islam for future generations – any insight shown as to why the
migration was important for that generation of Muslims, as well as future generations, should
be credited.

(a) Describe two events from the life of the Prophet that illustrate the way he treated non-
Muslims. [10]

Candidates can choose any two events and give a full and concise description of them. The
point of the events should be underlined, as well as giving some reasons for the prophet’s
conduct.
Some events which candidates could talk about (though not the only ones) are:
• his treatment of non-Muslims during the early persecution of Muslims in Makka; how he
was taunted and had things thrown at him, and how he reacted
• the story of the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬going to Al-Ta’if; how they reacted to his message and how the
prophet reacted to them
• the conquest of Makka; his treatment of his non-Muslim enemies
• his relationship with non-Muslims when they migrated to Madina; how he made treaties
with the Jewish tribes and his interaction with them.
There may be other relevant events that the candidates choose, which should be credited if
they give a detailed description of them.

(b) How can these examples help Muslims today in their relationships with non-Muslims? [4]
Candidates should show some reflection on the two situations they have described in part (a)
and relate them to their own personal relationships with non-Muslims, or the relationship of
Muslims in general with non-Muslims.
They could talk about the moral significance of the prophet’s actions and this should be used
to highlight Muslim conduct today. A clear parallel should be drawn between the Prophet’s
example and situations today, and specific examples given.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(a) Trace the events that led up to the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬migration (hijra). [10]
For this answer an account should be given about the events before the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬migrated to
Madina, not the actual journey or events of migration itself.
Answers could briefly discuss the persecution of the Muslims by the Makkans and their
migration to Abyssinia which later encouraged them to make the migration to Yathrib. The
boycott of the Banu Hashim clan by the Qur’aysh followed by the deaths of Abu Talib and
Hazrat Khadija are points that candidates can discuss when answering this question.
Answers could also talk about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬reaction to the loss of protection and his
attempts to spread Islam elsewhere. The prophet met six men in Makka, who had come from
Yathrib for the annual pilgrimage. They became Muslim and returned to Makka the following
year with more people who took an oath at ‘Aqaba in 621. The following year more people
came to take the oath with the Prophe(‫)ﷺ‬t. They invited the prophet to come to Yathrib as their
leader.
The best answers will be able to give details of the number of pledges, the number of
Yathribites/Madinans involved, some brief details of what was in the pledges, and an
indication of the result of the pledges.
(b) Explain the importance of the Pledges of ‘Aqaba to the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬in the period leading
up to the migration. [4]

Good answers should be able to talk about the prophet’s vulnerability at this time, and his
attempt to gain support from other places (e.g. in Al-Ta’if). They could also mention the tribal
system of the time and the difficulties the prophet faced without protection within this system.
Also, the pledges gave hope to the Muslims and the prophet as they found support and
protection from a different, but willing, source.

(a) Abu Talib died in 619. Describe the events following this that led to the Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬
migration (hijra) to Madina. [10]

(a) For this answer an account should be given about the events before the Prophet (
‫)ﷺ‬migrated to Madina, not the actual journey or events of migration itself.
Good answers will be able to tell the story fully and concisely, with a clear starting point (e.g.
the death of Abu Talib and the loss of protection for the Prophet, or they could start from the
failure at Ta’if), and end point. Answers could talk about the Prophet’s reaction to the loss of
protection and his attempts to spread Islam elsewhere. The Prophet met six men in Makka,
who had come from Yathrib for the annual pilgrimage. They became Muslim and returned to
Makka the following year with more people who took an oath at ‘Aqaba in 621. The following
year more people came to take the oath with the Prophet(‫)ﷺ‬. They invited the Prophet(
‫ )ﷺ‬to come to Yathrib as their leader. In Makka there was a plot to assassinate him, and
eventually there
was a sura revealed telling him to migrate.
The best answers will be able to expand and give depth to these events.

(b) Why was this migration important for the Muslim community? [4]

25
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(b) Good answers will be able to mention that the difficulties in Makka meant that Muslims could
not freely practice their new faith, and that this new religion had stopped expanding. They
could talk about how the migration would provide them with an opportunity to expand, and
provide religious freedom. It also made the Prophet the leader of a community allowing Islam
to be established.
Candidates can give any number of reasons, but they should develop the answer to show
the importance of what they are saying, e.g. not by writing: ‘the migration gave the Muslims
freedom’, but expand on it by saying they were free from the persecutions or that they could
properly learn and implement the laws. The Prophet’s life was threatened and so migrating
allowed him to escape further persecution and possible death, and establish Islam.
(a) Write about the Prophet Muhammad’s (‫)ﷺ‬interaction with non-Muslims in Madina. [10]
(a) Candidates should only write about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬interaction with non-Muslims once he
had migrated to Madina, and not write about events before this time.
Candidates could write about how the Prophet made a Constitution for the citizens of
Madina, including non-Muslims, about their rights and responsibilities as part of the
community. The non-Muslims had the following rights: equal political and cultural rights,
autonomy and freedom of religion; they would fight with the Muslims against the enemy of
the community and have the same responsibilities in war as others.
The Prophet was always fair in his dealings with the non-Muslims, e.g. when a Muslim and
non-Muslim were having a dispute, the Prophet sided with the non-Muslim as it was the just
thing to do.
Candidates could also talk about the various Jewish tribes, and how their relationships
developed with the Prophet over time, as well as his relationship with the hypocrites in
Madina.

(b) What can Muslims learn from this interaction? [4]

Candidates should show some reflection on the situations they have described in part (a)
and relate them to their own personal relationships with non-Muslims, or the relationship of
Muslims in general with non-Muslims.
They could talk about the moral significance of the Prophet’s actions and this should be used
to highlight Muslim conduct. A clear parallel should be drawn between the Prophet’s example
and related situations, and specific examples given.
(a) Give an account of the persecutions faced by the early converts to Islam in Makka. [10]

Candidates should give a detailed narrative of the persecutions faced by the first Muslims in
the years after the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬started preaching Islam.
Good answers will be able to name key figures involved in the persecution, and the names of
the Muslims who were being persecuted, stating that it included slaves and those without
tribal protection. They could talk about the type of difficulties they faced, e.g. the physical
torture, and give an account of the persecutions. They could also mention the migration to
Abyssinia and the social and economic boycott.
Good answers will be able to present their narratives in a clear and comprehensive manner
without confusing details.
Answers about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬persecution will not be credited.

26
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(b) How are these accounts relevant to Muslims now? [4]

(b) Answers should reflect on the accounts the candidates have given in part (a) and be able to
put their answers in a modern context. They may be able to say e.g. that these stories tell
Muslims to remain patient in times of difficulty, but the better answers will be able to show
depth and understanding, e.g. Muslims facing hardships now should look at these examples
to compare the difficulties they faced/these examples allow Muslims to reflect on how they
behave in times of difficulty or oppression. These stories can be a source of encouragement
and comfort if Muslims can see that the first generation of Muslims went through these
hardships. Better answers will be able to give definite examples from the lives of Muslims or
the world they live in.
Better answers will refer to (a) but not repeat the description.

(a) Write about the events of the first year following the Prophet’s (‫ )ﷺ‬arrival in Madina. [10]

(a) Good answers will be able to provide a detailed and concise narrative of events that occurred
once the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬arrived in Madina, and not the events of his journey.
Candidates could write about how on arrival from Quba, the Prophet was greeted joyfully by the
people of Yathrib, with children singing as he arrived. As the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬passed through the city
many people requested that he stay with them, but he told them his she-camel would make the
decision. They could also mention where the camel stopped and that the Prophet purchased the
land where the mosque would be built, as well as mentioning that he stayed with Ayyub al-
Ansari while the mosque and his house were being built. He himself took part in the
construction. Other points could be that a treaty was made with the Jews and that the Ansar
and Muhajirun were made brothers. The adhan was introduced. The city was re-named Madina
tun-Nabi.
Excellent answers will expand on these points and give an in-depth narrative.

(b) What lessons can Muslims learn from the brotherhood that was created in Madina? [4]
Candidates could write about the concept of sharing their wealth and family and giving up
material possessions, welcoming other people, in particular other Muslims, into their lives,
creating unity, and/or about equality. Good answers will be able to give a thoughtful answer
as to the merits the brotherhood created, and how they can be relevant to the lives of
Muslims.

(a) Describe the events of the Conquest of Makka. [10]

(a) Good answers should be able to narrate the story of the events of the Conquest of Makka,
leading up to it and immediately after, and give detailed information as well as name the key
figures involved. Details and accuracy will take candidates up the levels.
The Quraysh had broken the terms of the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, by attacking Banu Khuza’ah
who had allied with the Muslims. Realising the seriousness of the situation the Quraysh sent
Abu Sufyan to ensure the treaty was intact, but he left Madina without doing so. After making
preparations for war, the Prophet set out with 10,000 soliders. Abu Sufyan became Muslim and
his house was made a safe place. The Prophet entered Makka, with there being only minor
squirmishes, and destroyed the idols. Apart from nine people, the Quraysh were pardoned,

27
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

including Wahshi and Hind.

(b) Why are the actions of the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬after the conquest important for Muslims to learn
from? [4]
Candidates could write about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬destruction of the idols, or the forgiveness he
showed to his enemies. Candidates should expand on the significance of any of these
events, and how Muslims can learn from them or apply them in their own lives. They could,
e.g., write about the importance of forgiving people who have wronged/hurt you, even if their
actions were awful, just as the Prophet forgave Wahshi and Hind, as it is better to forgive
than hold animosity in your heart.

(a) Give an account of the battles of Khandaq (Trench) and Khaybar. [10]

(a) Good answers will be able to give relevant details of both battles with dates and names of
keys figures involved, being careful to avoid general answers that could be attributed to any
battle fought in the Prophet’s (‫)ﷺ‬lifetime.
Khandaq: took place in 627; Banu Nadir had broken their treaty agreements and planned to
kill the Prophet(‫ ;)ﷺ‬they planned an attack with the Makkans and gathered an army of 10 000;
Salman al-Farsi suggested the Muslims dig a trench to keep the army out; hypocrites in
Madina joined the Makkans; the army could not get in and after a storm which prevented
them from fighting, the siege ran into weeks and they eventually gave up; there were only
minor squirmishes; Banu Qurayza were punished for their treachery.
Khaybar: fought in 629 against the Jews who had broken their agreements with the
Muslims; a small Muslim army caught the oasis by surprise; captured 2 forts then went for
main fort of Qamus, which was heavily guarded; the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬sent ‘Ali, who is said to have
moved a door by himself which would have taken 40–50 men to move; he was given the title
of ‘Lion of Allah’; Jewish leader was killed; Jews requested they stay in the oasis and in
return give half their produce to the Muslims.
Excellent answers will expand on these points and give an in-depth narrative.
(b) What lessons can Muslims learn from either of these battles? [4]

There could be various answers given for this part and any relevant and detailed answers
should be credited accordingly.
Some suggestions of what candidates could write are, that in times of difficulty to keep hope
like when the Muslims were hungry and weak during the battle of Khandaq and Khaybar
(allowance was made to eat non-halal food if there was no other option); Muslims should
remain strong and patient and work hard for their victory; despite victory, Muslims should
remain fair and trustworthy (keeping their promise to the Jews to allow them to remain in
Khaybar); they should have faith in God at all times; it is important to be open to suggestions
from others (e.g. the Prophet taking advice from Salman al-Farsi).

(a) Describe the main events relating to the first migration (hijrah) of Muslims to Abyssinia. [10]

(a) Good answers should be able to narrate the story of the migration to Abyssinia with
considerable detail, being able to name the main Muslims involved.
Answers could give an account of the persecution faced by Muslims in Makkah and why

28
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

these persecutions had increased on the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬followers; that the Prophet ordered some
followers to go to Abyssinia to seek protection from it’s just king; amongst the first group was
‘Uthman and Ruqayyah; the second group was led by the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬cousin, Ja’far Ibn Abu
Talib; the Quraysh followed them and asked the king to return them; what happened when
Sura Maryam was recited to the king.
Excellent answers will give in-depth details of the story as it happened, name the Muslims
who migrated, as well as saying why these particular Muslims took part.

(b) What was the importance of making this migration at that time? [4]

Candidates could mention that the Muslims being persecuted meant they could not establish
their religion in Makka, and moving to Abyssinia allowed them religious freedom. Those not
willing to renounce Islam were in danger of torture or death. The migration therefore
safeguarded the new converts to Islam and the future Muslim community. Importantly, it was
the Prophet who encouraged them to go.

(a) Write about the life of the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬up until the first revelation. [10]
Candidates can provide details of any events related to the Prophet Muhammad’s (‫ )ﷺ‬life up
until
he received the first revelation. However, good answers will write a narrative naming key
figures, important events and sequence them in the order in which they happened.
Candidates could talk about the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬parents, his guardianship under his uncle Abu
Talib, and his relationship with the Quraysh. They could mention special events that
occurred in his childhood, e.g. the angels washing his heart. They should also mention his
trade journeys, and related to this, his subsequent marriage to Khadija, as well as the
meeting with Bahira. Better answers may also give elaborations about his character and
mention his increasing seclusions just before revelation – with any relevant supporting
quotations.
(b) Why was his relationship with his wife Khadija important for him? [4]
Good answers to this part will mention Khadija’s support of the Prophet(‫)ﷺ‬, financially and
spiritually, and being the first Muslim. They could also mention that her support allowed him
to spend time in seclusion and that his seclusion prepared him for receiving revelation. They
could also mention that her maturity allowed her to console and believe in the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬
when
he received revelation [reference to Sura 93:8]. Candidates should look to give thoughtful
and insightful explanations as to why this was important to the Prophet and the subsequent
development of Islam.
(a) Describe the events relating to the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬experiences in caves. [10]
Candidates should be able to give an in-depth narrative of the Prophet’s(‫ )ﷺ‬experiences in the
two caves, namely Cave Hira and Cave Thawr/Saur.
They should be able to name the caves and give details of what happened in each cave.
They should also be able to name the key figures involved, e.g. Jibra’il and Abu Bakr.
Related to Cave Hira, candidates could mention why the Prophet was in the cave, the
appearance of the angel, the quotation of Sura 96:1–5, as well as a description of what

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happened to the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬when he left the cave.

Related to Cave Thawr/Saur, candidates could mention why the Prophet found himself in the
cave, who he was with, details about Abu Bakr’s role as well as a reference to the Qur’anic
verse relating to this incident.

(b) Explain the significance of one of these experiences for the development of Islam. [4]
Candidates should try to show some understanding of the importance of one of these
incidences, and try to relate its significance to Muslims today.
Cave Hira
This event started God’s final guidance for mankind as it was when the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬was given
the first revelation of the Qur’an, which is the most important book for Muslims to get
guidance. The event was also significant for the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬as he was given his prophethood.
It highlighted the transition from polytheism to monotheism. Candidates should try to reflect
upon these reasons and their significance to themselves or the wider community of Muslims.
Cave Thawr
This event was significant because there was a threat to the Prophet in Makka and God gave
permission to leave. Candidates should mention that at this time, the Prophet had to have
trust in God as well as his followers to escape the threat. If he hadn’t trusted them and if he
had been captured Islam would not have developed. It was the beginning of a new phase for
the Muslims because they left everything behind. Candidates should try to reflect upon these
reasons and their significance to themselves or the wider community of Muslims.

(a) Describe the events of two of the battles fought by the Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬while he was leader of
the community at Madina. [10]
Candidates may choose any two battles, but will probably write on Badr, Uhud or Khandaq
(the Trench). Some may choose Hunayn or Khaybar.
Whichever two battles candidates choose, they should be able to name them and describe
them in detail giving dates and important points. Better answers will also narrate the events
as they unfolded rather than giving confused details; excellent answers will give an in-depth
narrative.

(b) How does his conduct in one of these battles provide a model for Muslims today when
they face difficulties? [4]
Answers could give an account of the part played by the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬in the particular battle they
choose to talk about.
Good answers could identify the qualities shown by the Prophet(‫ )ﷺ‬by his actions in the battle,
his reaction to danger or his enemies and draw some conclusion from it, e.g. “Muslims today
should act like this when they face an enemy”.
Excellent answers could be able to identify and discuss how these qualities can be
transferred to situations today, and give an example of how Muslims may follow his way of
acting. There may also be a relevant quote from Qur’an or Hadith.
4 (a) Write an account of the first migration (hijra) of the Muslims to Abyssinia. [10]
Good answers should be able to narrate the story of the migration to Abyssinia with

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

considerable detail, being able to name the main Muslims involved.

Answers could give an account of the persecution faced by Muslims in Makkah and why
these persecutions had increased on the Prophet’s followers; that the Prophet ordered some
followers to go to Abyssinia to seek protection from it’s just king; they were led by the
Prophet’s cousin, Ja’far Ibn Abu Talib; the Quraysh followed them and asked the king to
return them; what happened when Sura Maryam was recited to the king.
Excellent answers will give in-depth details of the story as it happened, as well as saying why
these particular Muslims took part.
(b) Why did the people of Makka pursue these Muslims? [4]
Good answers here will be able to give reasons for the migration rather than repeat the story
again.
They could say why the Makkans wanted to destroy the new faith, as it threatened their own
religious and economic stability, and therefore didn’t want the Muslims to escape and for
Islam to flourish.
Excellent answers will show a clear understanding of the threat the Makkans felt and the
fears they had due to the increasing number of Muslims.

3 (a) Write about the Prophet’s activities in spreading Islam outside Makka, before the
migration to Madina. [10]
The two main events related to this are the visit to Ta’if and the Pledges of Aqaba.
Candidates should write about both events to reach higher levels.
As the number of converts to Islam was not increasing, and due to the persecution by the
Quraysh, the Prophet turned his attention to communities outside Makka. He first went to
Ta’if, where he called the people to Islam for ten days. The people of the city chased the
Prophet and Zaid bin Harith out, pelting them with stones. Blood flowed down his legs and
Zaid was injured too. They took refuge in an orchard. God sent the Angel Jibril, with the
angel of the mountain, to crush the town and its inhabitants with the mountains surrounding
it, with the Prophet’s permission. The Prophet instead prayed for them that they become
Muslim.
The Prophet then focused on preaching to pilgrims coming to Makka for the pilgrimage. In
the eleventh year of prophethood, six men from Yathrib listened to the Prophet’s message.
They accepted Islam and went back to Yathrib and preached the message of Islam. The
following year, twelve men came to offer their allegiance to the Prophet. They pledged to
worship one God, not steal or commit adultery, nor kill their children. The Prophet sent
Musab bin ‘Umair to teach the people of Yathrib.
In the following year, over 70 pilgrims came to Makka from Yathrib and swore allegiance to
the Prophet. In this pledge they agreed to listen and obey the Prophet, to spend when they
had lots and when they had less, to enjoin good and forbid evil, to fear no one, and to defend
the Prophet.
After this the Prophet gave the Muslims permission to start migrating to Madina.
(b) Choose one quality shown by the Prophet in these activities and explain how Muslims
today can learn from it. [4]
Candidates could, e.g. write about the forgiveness shown by the Prophet. He had an
opportunity to have revenge on those who had harmed him but instead he chose to pray for
them. Muslims can learn that prayer can be more powerful than retaliation. That it is not
necessary to fight violence with violence. In difficult circumstances, such as oppression, or
when people are harming you, forgiveness can be a powerful tool. Muslims should learn to
be more forgiving in all circumstances, e.g. if someone has stolen from them, or has called
them names.
Candidates can choose to write about other qualities, but they need to justify their answer with examples.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

4 (a) Outline the Prophet’s experiences in the caves of Hira and Thawr. [10]
Candidates have to write about both caves, and the answers should generally be of equal
volume.
Cave Hira is where the Prophet received the first revelation, when he was 40. He had been
spending longer periods of time there. One night, an angel appeared in the form of a man and
said “Iqra” (read/recite). The Prophet replied, I cannot recite. This happened three times, the
third time the Angel Jibril squeezed the Prophet and recited the words of surah Alaq, verses 1-5.
The Prophet felt the words were imprinted on his heart. He ran out the cave and could see the
Angel on the horizon. He ran home and asked his wife to cover him and narrated what had
happened.
Cave Thawr is where the Prophet hid with his companion Abu Bakr when they left Makka on the
migration to Madina. They were followed by men hired by the Quraysh to kill the Prophet. They
stayed in the cave for three days. Abu Bakr entered to clear the cave for the Prophet; while the
Prophet slept on his lap, something stung Abu Bakr but he did not cry out. A spider wove its
web at the entrance, and birds made a nest, so when the Quraysh got to the cave they did not
go in. Abu Bakr was scared and the Prophet reassured him that God was with them (9.40). After
three days they left the cave for Madina. Abu Bakr’s son would come to give them news of
Makka and his daughter brought them food for their journey.
Candidates should expand on these details to gain the highest level.
(b) In what respects were the Prophet’s experiences in the cave of Thawr important for his
prophethood? [4]
The events in the cave of Thawr were important to the Prophet because it gave him
reassurance that God was looking after him, as the web that was spun on the cave saved his
life, so Islam was spread.
It also confirmed the loyalty of Abu Bakr to the Prophet, as Abu Bakr was afraid but did not
give himself or the Prophet away to the Quraysh.
These are not the only valid answers, and candidates should be credited where they give
reasons for their answer.

3(a) Give an account of the main events of the Prophet’s preaching up until

the public declaration on Mount Safa.

After the Prophet (pbuh) received his first revelation, he told his wife

Khadija, and later her cousin Waraqa bin Nawfal, about the event. Khadija

was the first to accept the message. After verses from sura Mudaththir were

revealed to him, the revelation came frequently and regularly.

The main message at this point was to reject idols and believe in one God.

For three years the Prophet (pbuh) taught and practised in secret.

The first converts were those who were close to him in his household, such

as Khadija, Zayd bin Harith and ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib. After this Abu Bakr, the

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Prophet’s close friend, converted and many prominent companions became

Muslim through him.

The Prophet (pbuh) would meet and teach these new converts in secret,

from the revelations he was continuing to receive. The Muslims prayed twice

a day and would retreat to the mountains to do so.

After there were more than 40 or so converts it could not be kept a secret

anymore. He called his own clan to dinner; Abu Lahab rejected the message

while Abu Talib promised protection.

Then sura 26:214 was revealed to preach the message openly so the

Prophet (pbuh) called the people of Makka to the mount of Safa and told

them about the new faith and believing in one God. His message was

rejected. After this, persecutions started on the early converts but Makkans

continued to convert to Islam.

Answers should focus on the Prophet’s deliverance of the message, and not

the events of the revelation itself or the persecution of the Prophet (pbuh)

and his followers, though some brief mention in the right context is fine.

3(b) What do the Prophet’s struggles in these early years teach Muslims

about dealing with their own difficulties?

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.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

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.

Other relevant answers should be credited.

4(a) Describe the main events of the Battle of Mu’ta and the Battle of

Hunain.

Mu’ta: This was the fiercest battle during the Prophet’s lifetime, fought in

629 (8AH). The Prophet (pbuh) had sent Al-Harith bin ‘Umair al-Azdi

carrying a letter to the ruler of Basra, inviting him to Islam. He was

intercepted and killed by the governor of al-Balqa’.

The Prophet (pbuh) had to act over this killing, and so mobilised an army of

3000 men; people near the scene of Al-Harith’s murder would be invited to

Islam and if they accepted no battle would ensue.

Zaid bin Haritha was to lead the army, Ja’far bin Abi Talib would replace

him, and ‘Abdullah bin Rawaha would replace Ja’far if he fell.

Heraclius sent 100 000 troops with another 100 000 from tribes allied to the

Byzantines.

The two armies fought relentlessly. Zaid was martyred and so Ja’far took his

place. He had his right arm cut off, then his left, and eventually he too was

martyred. ‘Abdullah then took his place and fought until he was martyred.

Khalid bin Walid stepped up to take leadership and showed his skills as a

strategist; the Muslims from the back were asked to come to the front to give

34
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

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.

Hunain: The sects of Hawazin and Thaqif did not want to submit to Islam so

they decided to fight against the Muslims. The Prophet (pbuh) marched to

meet them with 12 000 men.

The enemy were already waiting for the Muslim army, hiding and waiting to

hurl stones and arrows at them. When this happened, the enemy attack

became fierce and the Muslims started to retreat.

The Prophet (pbuh) called out: ‘Come on, people! I am the Messenger of

Allah. I am Muhammad, the son of Abdullah.’

Eventually the Prophet’s troops returned and they went on to defeat the

army.

Because the enemy’s leader Malik bin ‘Awf had told everyone to take their

families and belongings with them, the Muslims captured huge spoils of war.

This battle is mentioned in Sura Tawba, v25–26.

4(b) From these battles, what can be learnt about good leadership skills?

Candidates could say that 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.

They could also say that good 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.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

(a) Describe the main events of the Prophet’s migration (hijra) from Makka

to his welcome in Madina.

Use the AO1 Marking Grid

Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant

information must be credited.

In the year 622 there was a plot by the Quraysh to assassinate the Prophet

(pbuh). The Quraysh met at Dar al-Nadwa to plot his murder and decided to

send a member from each tribe to the Prophet’s house to kill him (Sura 8.30).

The Quraysh went to the Prophet’s house at night, but Jibril had already given

the Prophet (pbuh) God’s permission to migrate.

The Prophet (pbuh) told ‘Ali to sleep in his bed - he came out of his house and

threw dust at the assassins, (Sura 36.9).

Abu Bakr went with him and they took refuge in Cave Thawr. Abu Bakr went

in first to make sure it was clean and safe. In the Cave, his foot was stung by

an insect while the Prophet (pbuh) was sleeping, and he did not cry out for

fear of waking the Prophet (pbuh). They stayed in the cave for three nights;

Abu Bakr’s son and daughter visited them with food and news.

The Quraysh set a price of 100 camels for their capture. Some reached the

mouth of the cave, which had been covered by a spider’s web and nest. Abu

Bakr became worried that they may be seen and captured, but the Prophet

(pbuh) reassured him saying, ‘O Abu Bakr, what do you think of two (persons)

when Allah is their Third.’ This incident is also referenced in the Qur’an, (Sura

9.40).

After they left, Suraqa almost caught up with them but his horse kept

36
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

stumbling. They stopped in Quba and stayed there for some days; they

established a mosque and ‘Ali caught up with them there.

They arrived in Madina and the people welcomed the Prophet (pbuh). His

camel showed them the place to build his mosque.

Some candidates may also refer to the stay at the tents of Umm Ma’bad and

Buraida Aslami, which is relevant.

3(b) The Companions showed friendship and support for the Prophet (pbuh).

How can Muslims show friendship and support for each other?

Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant

information must be credited.

Candidates can show different ways in which Muslims can show support and

friendship for each other in their daily lives, on a national and international

level as one Ummah.

Better answers will give some clear examples, whether from present times or

those of the Prophet’s Companions, along with some explanation.

Some examples may include standing up for our friends when they are being

bullied, offering good advice to someone when in need, or stopping friends

from indulging in sinful or illegal activities.

4(a) Write about the events of the Battle of Khaybar and the Battle of Hunain.

Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant

information must be credited.

The Battle of Khaybar was fought against the Jews who had broken their

agreements with the Muslims. The tribes in Khaybar had tried to instigate

37
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

other tribes in the area to attack the Muslims. The Prophet (pbuh) eventually

decided to try to put a stop to these attacks and raised an army to march to

Khaybar.

The Muslim army of 1400 caught the city by surprise. There were eight forts in

total. The Muslims attacked the first fort of Naim and then took over the other

numerous strongholds, except al-Qamus which was considered impenetrable.

The Prophet (pbuh) said, ‘Tomorrow I shall give the banner of Islam to a man

who loves God and His Apostle...and he will conquer Khyber.’ The banner

was given to ‘Ali, and he went to fight the Jewish leader, Marhab, who was

killed.

The Jews requested they stay in the oasis on the basis that they were better

farmers and knew the land. The Prophet (pbuh) agreed and in return the Jews

would give half their produce to the Muslims. The battle strengthened the

Muslims’ and the Prophet’s leadership.

In the Battle of Hunain the sects of Hawazin and Thaqif did not want to

submit to Islam so they decided to fight against the Muslims. The Prophet

(pbuh) marched to meet them with 12 000 men.

The enemy were already waiting for the Muslim army, hiding and waiting to

hurl stones and arrows at them. When this happened, the enemy attack

became fierce, and the Muslims started to retreat. The Prophet (pbuh) called

out: ‘Come on, people! I am the Messenger of Allah. I am Muhammad, the

son of Abdullah.’ Eventually the Prophet’s troops returned, and they went on

to defeat the army.

Because the enemy’s leader Malik bin ‘Awf had told everyone to take their

families and belongings with them, the Muslims captured huge spoils of war.

38
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

This battle is mentioned in Sura Tawba, (25–26)

Question Answer Marks

4(b) In your opinion, which of these two battles was the most significant for

Muslims?

Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant

information must be credited.

Candidates should choose the battle they consider to be more important and

give their reasons for their choice.

Candidates might say that the Battle of Khyber was the most significant

because it stopped some of the conspiracies against the Prophet (pbuh) and

the Muslims. Furthermore, the Muslims made financial gains and it led to

them becoming more confident.

Candidates who choose the Battle of Hunain as the most significant could say

that the Muslims learned many valuable lessons from this battle such as the

lesson to follow their leaders and not be overconfident. Also, strength can

come from strong faith and not from large numbers, as success comes from

God. It also taught Muslims to have determination in the face of adversity.

4(a) Giving examples from the Prophet’s life, write about how he showed

both the qualities of patience and forgiveness.

Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant

information must be credited.

The quality of patience is the quality of waiting calmly without complaining.

From the beginning the Prophet (pbuh) was patient in that he waited for

guidance from God before teaching others or preaching openly. He did not try

39
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

to rush the message to hurry people into accepting Islam.

His patience was shown when the people used to throw rubbish on him, call

him names or commit other atrocities. He never retaliated, nor did he get

angry at them.

His enemies would often come when he was praying and try to disturb his

prayer by whistling and clapping, but the Prophet (pbuh) would not say

anything or confront them. When the intestines of a camel were put on his

back while prostrating, he did not react or get angry but stayed in that position

until his daughter came and took it off his back.

He also showed patience while preaching Islam in Makka. Despite his best

efforts, only a handful of people accepted Islam, most of whom were poor or

slaves but that did not deter him from believing in his mission and continuing

to strive patiently.

His patience was also shown when he, along with his whole clan, were put

under boycott by the Makkans and at the end of it he lost those closest to him

in a short period of time, namely Khadija and Abu Talib. Instead of despairing,

he sought the reward of God by praying to Him. He waited for God to allow

him to migrate, despite the risk to his life.

The Prophet (pbuh) showed immense patience throughout his life in Madina

where he had to suffer the conspiracies and treacheries of Jewish tribes as

well as the hypocrisies of the leaders in Madina. This included the actions of

Abdullah bin Ubayy who often used to misbehave with the Prophet (pbuh) and

betrayed him on several occasions but he never retaliated.

The quality of forgiveness is to not want to punish someone when they have

40
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

wronged you, to not seek revenge.

Aisha said that the Prophet (pbuh) never took revenge on anyone for himself.

At the time of his visit to Ta’if, the Angel Jibril came to say that he can crush

the people between the two mountains, but the Prophet (pbuh) refused, and

prayed for their guidance instead.

When returning to Makka, the Prophet (pbuh) forgave many people who had

been prominent in persecuting him and his companions, e.g. Abu Sufyan. He

also gave a general pardon to the Makkans, despite their actions against him. He also forgave
Wahshi who killed his uncle Hamza as well as Hind who

chewed on Hamza’s liver.

Abdullah ibn Ubayy was one of the hypocrites who opposed the Prophet

(pbuh) whilst outwardly saying he supported him. Despite this the Prophet

(pbuh) seemed to show no animosity for Abdullah when he died, attending his

funeral and praying at his grave.

Candidates can offer other examples of forgiveness, especially for

development of the answer, such as the Prophet’s forgiveness of Ikrimah ibn

Abi Jahl, Sufwan ibn Umayyah and Habbar ibn al-Aswad.

4(b) Why should Muslims show patience in their everyday lives?

Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant

information must be credited.

Muslims should show patience for a variety of reasons, candidates should

offer reasons with examples.

Candidates might say it is one of God’s names (as-Sabbur), and He says that

He loves those who are patient (Sura 2.153, Sura 39.10) hence it is one of the

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

main teachings of the Qur’an.

It shows tolerance if a person does not react negatively to others. It can help

change people’s attitude for the better.

It can lead to a more peaceful society if people continue to strive to do good

and stop themselves from doing bad, even when the result/benefit does not

come immediately.

The Prophet (pbuh) showed patience throughout his life, as a Muslim one is

bound to follow the Seerah of the Prophet (pbuh).

3(a) The Prophet (pbuh) conquered Makka in 630. Write an account of the

main events of the Conquest.

The Quraysh had broken the terms of the Treaty of Hudaybiyya, by attacking

Banu Khuza’ah who had allied with the Muslims. Realising the seriousness of

the situation the Quraysh sent Abu Sufyan to ensure the treaty was intact, but

he was unsuccessful. After making preparations for war, the Prophet (pbuh)

set out with 10 000 soldiers.

It was 8AH. The Prophet’s army stopped outside Makka and it was here that

Abu Sufyan became Muslim and his house was later made a place of safety.

Abu Sufyan returned to Makka and warned the Quraysh not to resist the

Muslim army; most put down their arms, but a few (Safwan, Ikrimah, Suhayl)

swore to block the Muslim army from entering Makka.

There were 4 groups, one led by Khalid bin Walid that faced resistance leading

to some deaths.

The Prophet (pbuh) knocked down the 360 idols in the Ka’ba. The keys to the

Ka’ba were given to ‘Uthman bin Talha, and at the time of prayer, Bilal

42
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

ascended the Ka’ba and gave the adhan.

Apart from nine people, the Quraysh were pardoned, including Wahshi and

Hind.

The Prophet (pbuh) said that anyone seeking refuge in Abu Sufyan’s house, in

the Ka’ba or who remained in their houses, will not be punished.

Some Qur’anic verses related to the incident are 17.81 and 34.49.

10

3(b) Why was it important for the Prophet (pbuh) to offer refuge to the

Makkans?

Candidates could say that it was important to avoid bloodshed. Everyone

was given a chance to become Muslim or ask for forgiveness for what they

had done in the past to the Prophet (pbuh) and the Muslims.

It was also important to show that there was no ill-feeling towards the

Makkans who had fought against the Prophet (pbuh) for many years,

showing the forgiveness and mercy of God.

Other responses can be presented but valid reasons must be given.

4(a) Choose three events from the Prophet’s life that demonstrate his

moral character, and write in detail about them.

Candidates can offer a variety of answers, but they should identify an event in

the life of the Prophet (pbuh) and give details as to the character of the

Prophet (pbuh) during that event.

Examples they could write about are:

10

Kindness: At the time of the persecutions in Makka there was an old woman

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

who threw rubbish on the Prophet (pbuh) every day as he walked to the

mosque. One day she was not there so he asked her neighbour about her

well-being and found out she was ill. He asked permission to visit the

woman. When he entered the house, the woman thought that he had come

there to take his revenge when she was unable to defend herself because of

sickness, but the Prophet (pbuh) assured her that he had come to her, not

to take any revenge, but to see her and to look after her needs, as it was the

command of God that if anyone is sick a Muslim should visit them and

should help them if help is needed.

Merciful: The Prophet (pbuh) went to preach Islam to the people of Ta’if, who

rejected him and chased him away, throwing stones at him causing him to

bleed. When the angel Jibril came and said God has given permission to

destroy the people of Ta’if upon the Prophet’s command, the Prophet (pbuh)

replied that he would rather have someone from their community believe in

and worship one God.

Trustworthy: The Makkans knew of the Prophet’s trustworthiness and called

him al-Amin. Even after prophethood they continued to entrust their belongings

with him knowing that he would keep them safe; on migration to Madina he

returned all their belongings through ‘Ali.

Truthful: He was known to the Quraysh as al-Sadiq. Even after prophethood

they rejected his message but still believed he would not tell a lie. When the

Prophet (pbuh) was asked to preach publicly on Mount Safa, the Quraysh

agreed that they had never heard him tell a lie. At the time when Abu Sufyan

met with the Byzantine King, he testified to the truthfulness of the Prophet

(pbuh) despite not being Muslim at the time and being considered an enemy of

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

the Muslims.

Humble: despite the Prophet’s status, he never lived an extravagant life; his

wife Aisha related that at home he would sweep the house, stitch his own

clothes, fix his own sandals, help employees in their work and eat his meals

with them. He did not think of himself as better than the poor, and would

accept invitations from slaves and the poor; he also showed his humility at

the Conquest of Makka.

4(b) Which if these events do you think is the most relevant as a lesson for

Muslims today?

Candidates can choose any of the events and say why they think it is

important for Muslims now. The answer should be relevant, and the reasons

should be given for their answers.

5(a) Describe the main difficulties faced by the early followers of Islam.

After the revelation to warn his nearest relatives (26.214), the Prophet

(pbuh) took to Mount Safa and invited the Quraysh to follow Islam publicly.

They rejected him and feeling threatened by the new message, because

they could not dissuade the Prophet (pbuh) from preaching it, they started to

persecute the Muslims.

Those who had no protection were easy targets and felt the worst of the

persecution.

Bilal was severely beaten by his master Umayah bin Khalaf and made to lie

on the burning sand with a rock on his chest, but he did not give up belief in

one God.

‘Ammar bin Yasir, and his parents, were made to lie on hot embers – both

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

his parents were martyred, his father died due to severe tortures, his mother

Sumayyah was bayoneted to death.

‘Uthman ibn Affan was wrapped in palm leaves and set fire to by his uncle.

Khabab bin al-Arat was made to lie on burning coal with a rock on his chest.

Harith bin Hala, a blacksmith, was tortured and killed.

Because of the persecutions, the Prophet (pbuh) allowed some people to

migrate to Abyssinia.

Later a social and economic boycott was imposed on the Banu Hashim and

they were to live in Shib-i-Abi Talib, where they faced great hardships for

many years.

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5(b) How can these events give hope to Muslims today?

Candidates can give a variety of responses, but they must give reasons for

why they have given their answer.

They may say that the persecutions show that Muslims in the past went

through difficulties as well, so they may get some reassurance from this that

any difficulties now that they face for being Muslim or practising Islam is not

new.

They could also say that they can use the example of the early Muslims to

show patience and perseverance with difficulties in their own lives. Or that

there will always be people around to help and support them so they should

not lose hope.

God is always their protector so that should give Muslims hope in what they

Do.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

3(a) The Prophet (pbuh) was mistreated by the Makkans after preaching

the message of Islam. Write an account of the difficulties he faced.

Candidates should write a detailed account of the difficulties faced by the

Prophet (pbuh) himself.

Candidates could give a brief description of the Prophet (pbuh) beginning to

preach openly after years of secret worship, inviting his kinsmen to Islam

but getting a cold reply from them.

He announced his faith to the Quraysh on Mount Safa, they rejected his call

to Islam, abu Lahab, in particular, spoke harshly and subsequently went on

to mock and torture the Prophet (pbuh).

He was called a mad man, or possessed by jinn [15.6, 68.51]

Abu Lahab forced his two sons to divorce the Prophet’s daughters Ruqayya

and Umm Kulthum.

They laughed and mocked him after his son’s death, calling him ‘abtar’ and

when there was a break in revelations.

Abu Jahal was the most prominent Makkan who committed many atrocities

against the Prophet (pbuh) on several occasions including physically

attacking and inciting others to do the same. He also had the foetus of a

she-camel placed on the Prophet’s back while he was praying at the Ka’ba,

this was removed by Fatima

The Prophet (pbuh) and his clan was boycotted and were not allowed

business dealings or social contact with the Makkans; they stayed in Shib i

Abi Talib for three years, where they had little food or water.

There was a plot to murder the Prophet (pbuh) which eventually led to his

migration.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Some candidates might also refer to the pressure put on Abu Talib to

withdraw support of the Prophet(pbuh) and the bribery offer made by the

Quraysh.

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3(b) How can the Prophet’s response to opposition help Muslims when

they are mistreated?

Candidates could say that they can take from the Prophet’s response that

they should be patient and kind, and not retaliate to other people’s

behaviour. That in their everyday lives they may be mocked or bullied for

different reasons, but they should try to remain patient.

Showing perseverance and steadfastness with a strong belief in God’s

help, in the face of any hardship, is another way Muslims can respond.

Better answers will give specific examples of lessons Muslims can take in

certain circumstances.

0493/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme

PUBLISHED

October/November

2020

4(a) Describe the events of the migration (hijra) from Makka to Madina.

For this answer an account should be given about the events of the actual

journey; only brief mention should be made about events before the

Prophet left Makka and his arrival in Madina.

In 622 in Makka there was a plot to assassinate the Prophet (pbuh). Jibril

came giving the Prophet (pbuh) God’s permission to migrate after other

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Muslims had already left. Abu Bakr, ‘Ali and the Prophet (pbuh) were left.

The Quraysh came to the Prophet’s house to kill him at night, (8.30). The

Prophet (pbuh) had told ‘Ali to sleep in his bed. The Prophet (pbuh) came

out of his house and threw dust at the assassins, (36.9).

Abu Bakr went with him. They took refuge in Cave Thawr. Abu Bakr went in

to make sure it was clean and safe.

Abu Bakr’s foot was stung by an insect. They stayed in the cave three

nights. Abu Bakr’s son and daughter visited them.

The Quraysh set a price of 100 camels for their capture. Some men

reached the mouth of the cave. The Prophet (pbuh) reassured Abu Bakr

that he should not worry as Allah was the third in the cave.

A spider wove its web at the entrance of the cave, in this way God ensured

they were not discovered.

Suraqa almost caught up with them but his horse kept stumbling.

They stopped in Quba and stayed there for four days, establishing a

mosque. ‘Ali caught up with them here.

They arrived in Madina and the people welcomed the Prophet (pbuh). He

stayed with Abu Ayyub al-Ansari.

Some responses may also mention events that happened at Quarters of

Bani Saleem or tents of Umm-e- Mu’bd or the Prophet (pbuh) leading a

congregation at the valley of Ranuna.

10

4(b) In what way is this journey significant for the Muslim community

now?

The migration has allowed Islam to spread and flourish, allowing it to reach

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Muslims in all parts of the world until the present day.

It also laid the foundation of a Muslim state which has resulted in many

Muslim nations around the world.

Some candidates will talk about how there are lessons in the migrations for

Muslim communities facing political, social and religious problems. Such

communities can also find alternative ways to come out of these problems,

similarly, the communities that host immigrants can also learn valuable

lessons about how to accommodate and help migrants.

5(a) Write about the brotherhood in Madina that developed between the

Helpers (Ansar) and the Emigrants (Muhajirun).

Candidates may include some of the following points. All other relevant

points must be credited.

The residents of Makka, who had to leave all their belongings behind and

migrate to Madina, due to the persecutions of Makkans, are called

Emigrants while their hosts, residents of Madina known as Yathrib at that

time, are called Ansars or Helpers (mainly from the Aws and Khazraj

tribes).

Ansars had started to accept Islam as a result of Pledges of Aqaba and had

invited the Prophet (pbuh) to their city. They welcomed Emigrants openheartedly.

To unite the two groups, the Prophet (pbuh) made them brothers, pairing

each of the Ansar with the Muhajirun. This was to help each other

materially and spiritually. The Ansar had already been eager to help their

migrating brothers and sisters with accommodation and food.

The Prophet (pbuh) gathered the two groups and started calling out the

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

name of one Ansar and one Muhajir. The Prophet (pbuh) took ‘Ali as his

brother. Better answers will name some prominent pairs.

Sa’d bin ar-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 market

place so that I may make my fortune with my own hands.’

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.

The virtue of these two groups has also been mentioned in the Qur’an:

‘Those who believed and emigrated and carried out jihad in the way of Allah

with their wealth and lives are greater in rank in the sight of Allah, and it is

they who are the successful.’ [9.20]

Some candidates may also refer to the fact that Emigrants and Helpers also

inherited from each other till the practice was prohibited by the Quran 8:75.

5(b) How can Muslims today show their brotherhood and sisterhood

towards each other?

Muslims can show their brother/sisterhood in various ways – by visiting

each other and looking to see how they can help each other. This may be

food, their time, or company if they are on their own. They can offer to

share their belongings with others, especially if they do not have much of

their own.

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Candidates can offer other answers but they should elaborate on their

answers and give specific examples to show how brotherhood can be

practised today.

Candidates can talk about brotherhood at local, national and international

level.

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.

Good answers will be able to provide a detailed and concise narrative of events that occurred
between the Prophet and the

people of Yathrib.

Answers could talk about the Prophet’s attempts to spread Islam outside Makka without success.
Soon after the events of

Ta’if he met six men in Makka, who had come from Yathrib for the annual pilgrimage. They
became Muslim and returned to

Makka the following year with more people (12) who took an oath at Aqaba in 621 which is
known as the First Pledge of

Aqaba. Musab bin Umair was sent with them to teach them about Islam. The following year
more people came to take the

oath with the prophet (70). They invited the prophet to come to Yathrib as their leader. The
Prophet told Muslims to start

migrating.

Initially the six men said they would go back and tell people about the prophet. The first pledge
had details relating to worshipping

one God, not stealing, not committing adultery, not killing their children, not slandering or
disobeying the prophet. The second

pledge was to listen and obey the prophet, to spend in plenty as well as scarcity, to enjoin good
and forbid evil, fear no one but

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The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Allah, and defend the Prophet if he needs it.

Good answers be able to give details of the number of pledges, the number of Yathribites /
Madinans involved and the names

of some key figures, the main details of what was in the pledges, and an indication of the result
of the pledges.

3(b) In your view, why should Muslims provide a safe haven for others? Give reasons for your
answer.

Candidates could say e.g. that 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.

Candidates can offer other answers but should give relevant reasons

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)

Good answers will be able to provide a detailed and concise narrative of events that occurred
between the Prophet and the people of Yathrib.

Answers could talk about the Prophet’s attempts to spread Islam outside Makka without success.
Soon after the events of Ta’if he met six men in Makka, who had come from Yathrib for the
annual pilgrimage. They became Muslim and returned to Makka the following year with more
people (12) who took an oath at Aqaba in 621 which is known as the First Pledge of Aqaba.
Musab bin Umair was sent with them to teach them about Islam. The following year more people
came to take the oath with the prophet (70). They invited the prophet to come to Yathrib as their
leader. The Prophet told Muslims to start migrating.

53
The Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬

Initially the six men said they would go back and tell people about the prophet. The first pledge
had details relating to worshipping one God, not stealing, not committing adultery, not killing
their children, not slandering or disobeying the prophet. The second pledge was to listen and
obey the prophet, to spend in plenty as well as scarcity, to enjoin good and forbid evil, fear no
one but Allah, and defend the Prophet if he needs it.

Good answers be able to give details of the number of pledges, the number of Yathribites /
Madinans involved and the names of some key figures, the main details of what was in the
pledges, and an indication of the result of the pledges.

10

3(b) In your view, why should Muslims provide a safe haven for others? Give reasons for your
answer.

Candidates could say e.g. that 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.

Candidates can offer other answers but should give relevant reasons

54