Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

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Islamic Studies Topical

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Past Papers 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023

With answer keys

SECTION A

The life, teachings and achievements of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

Answer ONE question from this section.

1 (a) Give two examples of opposition between the Prophet and the people of Makkah. (2) (2019)

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a Maximum of two.

• The Prophet told the people of Makkah that their gods were false gods (1)
• The Prophet spoke publicly criticising how the people of Makkah were living their lives (1)
• The Prophet made an alliance with the people of Yathrib which was seen as a threat to
Makkah (1).

1 (a) Give two details of the conversation between Muhammad (pbuh) and Jibrail in the cave of
Hira. (2) (2020)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of two.

• Jibrail told Muhammad (pbuh) to read three times

• Muhammad (pbuh) told Jibrail he couldn’t read
• Muhammad felt the words burning within him

1 (a) Identify two reasons for the Battle of Ohud. (2)(2021)

AO1 2 marks

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• It was revenge for the Makkans’ after their defeat at Badr.

• The Muslims were threatening the Makkans’ way of life.
• The Muslims were having a negative impact on Makkan trade.

1 (a) Identify two important teachings of the Prophet’s later years. (2)(2022)

AO1 2 marks

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• He emphasised the importance of kindness with living creatures

• He spoke of the importance of forgiving others
• He explained the need for justice with all peoples
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(a) Identify two ways that the Sunnah were recorded. (2) (2023)
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

AO1 2 marks

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• They were recorded through memory.

• They were recorded through writing.
• They were recorded through practice

........................................................................................................................

(b) Describe how the conversion of Umar helped the early Islamic community. (3) (2019)

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Umar was among the first people to proclaim Islam (1). Umarís courage boosted the morale
of the small Muslim community (1) and this was a great support to the Prophet (1).
• At the time of Umarís conversion, the Muslim community practised their faith in secret (1)
• Umar asked the Prophet if they could practise openly (1) and led the community to worship
at the Kaíba for the first time (1).
• Shiaís believe that Lady Fatima and Imam Ali were the first individuals to openly worship the
Kaaba

(b) Describe the events of the boycott in Makkah. (3) (2020)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of three marks.

• The non-believers of Makkah decided a boycott would defeat the Muslims (1), this meant
the Muslims could get no supplies or food (1), this brought great hardship to Muhammad
(pbuh) and his followers (1).
• The boycott brought great suffering to the Muslims (1), but Muhammad (pbuh) said this was
what Allah willed (1). After three years the boycott was ended because the Prophet never
lost faith in Allah (1).

(b) Describe the support Abu Talib gave to Muhammad (pbuh). (3)(2021)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• This was shown by his duty in raising Muhammad (pbuh) after his grandfather’s death (1).
Abu Talib was a leader and gave him moral and political support. (1). His loyalty and faith had
a great impact on Muhammad’s (pbuh) life (1).
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• He taught Muhammad (pbuh) the art of business (1). Abu Talib took Muhammad (pbuh) on
journey’s all over Arabia which developed his business skills (1), and this enabled
Muhammad (pbuh) to become self-sufficient when he became an adult (1).

(b) Describe the support the 3rd Caliph Uthman gave to Muhammad (pbuh) during his
lifetime.(3) (2022)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding,
up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Uthman helped the Prophet to spread the word of Allah (1) having first converted to the
Islam (1) thereby showing his trust in Muhammad's (pbuh) role as prophet (1).
• Uthman helped Muhammad (pbuh) compile the Qur'an (1) by acting as a scribe while
the Prophet recited the verses (1) and this helped ensure that Allah's teachings could be
distributed to all (1).

(b) Describe the reasons the Prophet chose to fight in battles. (3)(2023)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• To show that Muslims had strength (1), showing enemies who were waiting to attack them,
that they were strong (1) and so stopping further attacks (1).
• To ensure the word of Allah was spread (1). To do this the enemies of Islam had to be
defeated (1), which allowed the early Islamic community to be established (1).

........................................................................................................................

(c) Explain the significance of the ‘Night of Power’ for the beginning of Islam. (6) (2019)

• It was the night of the greatest revelation that Allah has given to humankind (A01). The
Qurían was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) and this meant the true will of Allah was now
accessible to all humanity, as witnessed through the foundation of the Islamic faith (A02).
• It is considered a night that is ìbetter than a thousand monthsî (A01). The night reminds
Muslims of the nature and power of Allah and, on this night, Muslims can gain a special
closeness to Allah through prayers (AO2).
• It is the angel Jibrail who reveals the Qurían to Muhammad (pbuh) on the ëNight of Powerí
(A01). This reminds Muslims of the important role angels have in their spiritual lives as Godís
messengers and on this night, they can receive special blessings from the angels (AO2).

(c) Explain why the Prophet’s final sermon is important for Muslims. (6) (2020)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Muhammad’s (pbuh) final sermon is important because it gives clear guidance as how
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Muslim’s are expected to live (AO1). The Prophet emphasises that these are his last words,
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so this message must be carried to all believers who cannot be present, now and in the
future (A02).
• This sermon is viewed by all Muslims as an important text that illustrates how humans
should act for Allah and towards each other (AO1). These are not new things for Muslims,
but because they are in Muhammad’s (pbuh) sermon, this reminds Muslims of this
important message (AO2).
• The last words of the Prophet contain everything that is important in Islam and being a
good Muslim (A01). It is seen as an executive summary of core Islamic teachings in belief
and practice. (A02).

(c) Explain how the Qur’an was revealed through the Prophet. (6)(2021)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• The words were recited to Muhammad (pbuh) by the angel Jibrail at the command of Allah
(AO1). This all began when the angel Jibrail appeared to Muhmammad (pbuh) in the cave of
Hira and told him to ‘recite’ which translates as Qur’an. This fact made it clear that the
words revealed to the prophet, and written as the Qur’an, were the word of Allah, as
Muhammand (pbuh) could not read or write (A02)
• The Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet over a period of 23 years (A01). It took such a long
period of time in order to ensure that Muhammad (pbuh) fully understood what Allah
wanted him to say and express it to his people. It was over this time that the fullness of
Allah’s message was delivered to humankind so they could achieve Jannah. (A02)
• After the revelation to the Prophet on the Night of Power, the angel Jibrail communicated
with Muhammad (pbuh) many times (A01). Sometimes the prophet lay in his cloak, semi-
conscious and sweating as the message came, sometimes he was out on his horse and
sometimes he could hear it clearly while he was speaking. Through this communication with
Muhammad (pbuh), the word of Allah was recited and written down for all humankind
(AO2)

(c) Explain the Prophet’s relationship with other communities and countries. (6)(2022)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• His foreign policy with other states was based on equality and justice (A01). He worked on
the policy of friendship, goodwill and co-operation. He made every effort to establish peace.
He signed a treaty to maintain peace with the Quarish, even though the terms of treaty
favoured the Quarish rather than the Muslims (A02).
• Non-Muslim tribes were brought under the Muslim state by paying Jizya (A01). This meant
they were then under the protection of the Muslim state. Muhammad (pbuh) made pacts
and treaties with different groups that came to Madinah. The Christian tribe, Naijran, did not
accept Islam but entered into a treaty after paying Jizya. Similarly, the Jews of Khyber (A02).
• Muhammad (pbuh) is documented as having engaged as a diplomat as he spread the Islamic
faith (A01) His diplomacy meant that he had positive relationships with other countries and
communities. He established a method of communication with other tribal or national
leaders through letters, assigned envoys, or by visiting them personally (A02).

(c) Explain why it was important for the Prophet to treat his opponents well. (6)(2023)
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• After the Battle of Badr the Muslim victors could have destroyed their enemies as true
conquerors but chose not to (A01). This created a good impression of Islam and the Muslims
because it showed them to be respectful and compassionate, showing the humane nature of
Islam (A02).
• It was important because Muhammad (pbuh) wanted to show the mercy of Allah through
his actions (1). By doing this he was showing others that to act with hate was not what Allah
wanted of his people. He wanted to teach his followers to show mercy and create a better
society (A02).
• Muhammad (pbuh) realised at the time that battles had to be fought to allow the early
Islamic community to be established (A01). But his vision for Islam was one of peace. By
treating his opponents and prioners well, he was defusing the need for vengance and so
enabling different tribes to co-exist peacefully (A02).

........................................................................................................................

‫ تَن ََّز ُل‬٣ ‫ش ْه ٍۢر‬

َ ‫ف‬ ِ ‫ لَ ْيلَةُ ٱ ْلقَد ِْر َخي ٌْۭر ِم ْن أَ ْل‬٢ ‫ َو َما ٓ أَد َْر ٰىكَ َما لَ ْيلَةُ ٱ ْلقَد ِْر‬١ ‫ِإنَّا ٓ أَنزَ ْلنَ ٰـهُ ِفى َل ْي َل ِة ٱ ْل َقد ِْر‬
٥ ‫طلَ ِع ٱ ْلفَجْ ِر‬ ْ ‫ِى َحت َّ ٰى َم‬ َ ٤ ‫لرو ُح فِي َها بِإِ ْذ ِن َربِ ِهم ِمن ُك ِل أَ ْم ٍۢر‬
َ ‫سلَ ٰـم ه‬ ُّ ‫ٱ ْل َملَ ٰـٓئِ َكةُ َوٱ‬
Translation: Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you
know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels
and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the
emergence of dawn. [Qur’an 97: 1–5]

(d) ‘The Qur’an contains all the teachings Muslims need to live good lives.’ Assess this statement.
You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (12) (2019)

• The Qurían is the word of Allah, and it is by Allahís command that the Qurían was revealed to
the Prophet on the ìNight of Powerî (A02). The Qurían is heavenly, authentic and considered
to be a miracle. Allah willed the Qurían and Muhammad (pbuh) responded. Muhammed
(pbuh) had been specially chosen for this revelation by Allah and now must fulfil the will of
Allah in spreading the word of Islam. Surah 97 states Indeed, we sent the Qurían down
during the Night of Decreeî (A03).
• On the Night of Power Muslims were given the greatest gift of the Qurían, through studying
this text, Muslims gain knowledge of the importance of Allah and this gives them strength
throughout their lives (A02). It is a source of wisdom and guidance that shows Muslims how
they must live good lives and inspires them to struggle for Allah. It is seen as the final
revelation of Allah to humankind. Surah 97 tells the importance of the revelation of the
Qurían on this night is ìbetter than a thousand monthsî (AO3).
• The Qurían does not provide answers to all questions and the Sunnah and Hadith of the
Prophet are essential for informing believers how to be good Muslims (A02). This is why the
Sunnah must be followed for Muslims to understand how to act and behave in ways that
please Allah. The Prophet is the role model. It is the wisdom of the Prophet, in the authority
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of the Sunnah, that helps Muslims apply the teaching of the Qurían to their daily lives (A03).
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• Shia perspective ñ Sunnah as teachings

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• Life actions of Holy Prophet as told by Ahlul Bayt

ُ‫ تَنَ َّز ُل ٱ ْل َملَ ٰـٓئِكَة‬٣ ‫شه ٍْۢر‬

َ ‫ف‬ ِ ‫ لَ ْيلَةُ ٱ ْلقَد ِْر َخي ٌْۭر ِم ْن أَ ْل‬٢ ‫ َو َما ٓ أَد َْر ٰىكَ َما لَ ْيلَةُ ٱ ْلقَد ِْر‬١ ‫نز ْلنَ ٰـهُ فِى لَ ْيلَ ِة ٱ ْلقَد ِْر‬
َ َ‫ِإنَّا ٓ أ‬
٥ ‫ى َحت َّ ٰى َم ْطلَ ِع ٱ ْلفَجْ ِر‬ َ ‫سلَـٰم ِه‬ َ ٤ ‫ح ِفيهَا ِب ِإ ْذ ِن َر ِب ِهم ِمن ك ُِل أَ ْم ٍۢر‬ ُ ‫لرو‬
ُّ ‫َوٱ‬
Translation: Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you
know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels
and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the
emergence of dawn. [Qur’an 97: 1–5]

(d) ‘The Night of Power (Night of Decree) is the most important event in Islam.’ Assess this
statement. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using
your own or others’ views to support your answer. (12) (2020)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• It was the night of the greatest revelation that Allah has given to humankind. The Qur’an
was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) and this meant the true will of Allah was now
accessible to all humanity (A02). This is witnessed through the foundation of the Islamic
faith, and for this reason the ‘Night of Power’ is considered a night that is “better than a
thousand months” as stated in Surah 97. On this night, when praying, Muslims gain a
special closeness to Allah and it reminds them of the importance of living a good life as
Allah intended (A03).
• It is the angel Jibrail who reveals the Qur’an to the Prophet on the ‘Night of Power’. This
reminds Muslims of the important role angels have in their spiritual lives as Allah’s
messengers (A02). On the ‘Night of Power’ Muslims today believe they can receive special
blessings from the angels. It was Jibrail who took Muhammad (pbuh) in his arms this night
telling him to recite the Qur’an for all of humankind. Allah confirms this in Surah 97 (A03).
• Although the ‘Night of Power’ is the greatest night in Islam and is respected as such by all
Muslims, there are other events of huge importance in Islam such as the granting of
prophethood to Muhammad (pbuh). (A02). He was willed by Allah, as his last prophet, to
guide humankind to the ways of Allah not only through the revelation of the Qur’an but by
how he lived and what he said. His prophethood enabled humans to understand how they
should live their lives as Allah intended so all can achieve Jannah (A03).

‫ّلل‬ ِ ‫سولُهُۥٓ أَ ْم ًرا أَن َيكُونَ لَ ُه ُم ٱ ْل ِخ َي َرةُ ِم ْن أَ ْم ِر ِه ْم ۗ َو َمن َي ْع‬

َ َّ ‫ص ٱ‬ ُ ‫َو َما كَانَ ِل ُم ْؤ ِم ٍۢن َو ََل ُم ْؤ ِمنَة ِإذَا قَضَى ٱ َّّللُ َو َر‬
٣٦ ‫ضلَـ ٌۭ ًًٰل ُّمبِي ٌۭنًا‬ َ ‫سولَهُۥ فَقَ ْد‬
َ ‫ض َّل‬ ُ ‫َو َر‬
It is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a
matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair. And whoever disobeys Allah
and His Messenger has certainly strayed into clear error. [Qur’an 33: 36]

(d) ‘To be pleasing to Allah, Muslims must obey all the teachings of the Prophet.’ Assess this
statement. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using
your own or others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2021)
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AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

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• The teachings, deeds and sayings of the Prophet are known as the Sunnah. These are
important as a moral guide for Muslims. They are a very important source of knowledge for
Muslims and following them puts them on the path to Jannah. (A02) By following the
Sunnah a Muslim will please Allah and seek to guarantee a good judgement by praying,
avoiding temptation and treating others justly. The importance of obeying the Prophet is
underlined by the recitation of the Shahadah. We are told in Surah 33.36 that if the
teachings of the Prophet are not followed then a Muslim can stray into error and sin. This
means all Muslims must obey the teachings of the Prophet (AO3).
• The Sunnah are known as sayings of the Prophet and when written down are called Hadith.
These are essential in enabling Muslims to understand how they should best act individually
and as a community. (AO2) They are a very important source of authority and enrich the
message of Allah that is given in the Qur’an. It states very clearly in Surah 33.36 that what
has been decided by y Muhammad (pbuh) in the Sunnah is not to be challenged by any
person of faith. To be a person of faith and fulfil these requirements, a person must follow
the teachings of the Prophet. If they don’t, they cannot lead a life pleasing to Allah (A03).
• Although following the teachings of the Prophet are a way that will help Muslims lead a life
that is pleasing to Allah, it is not the only way to live a life that would be pleasing to Allah,
as not all the teachings of the Prophet are applicable to all people at all time. Following the
greatest source of authority, the Qur’an, is the best way live a good Muslim life (AO2). It is
this source that explains all the key components a Muslim requires to live a life that is
pleasing to Allah. It defines a Muslim’s core belief and how this belief becomes a practical
reality in how a Muslim lives a life that will bring them close to how Allah wants them to
live. It describes how loving Allah and helping others are what a good Muslim must do
(A03).

ۚ ‫علَي ِْه ْم ِري ٌۭ ًحا َو ُجنُو ٌۭ ًدا لَّ ْم تَ َر ْو َها‬ ٌۭ ُ‫علَ ْي ُك ْم ِإ ْذ َجا ٓ َءتْ ُك ْم ُجن‬
َ ‫ود فَأ َ ْر‬
َ ‫س ْلنَا‬ ِ َّ ‫وا نِ ْع َمةَ ٱ‬
َ ‫ّلل‬ ۟ ‫وا ٱ ْذك ُُر‬
۟ ُ‫يَ ٰـٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّ ِذينَ َءا َمن‬
٩ ‫يرا‬ ً ‫َوكَانَ ٱ َّّللُ ِب َما تَ ْع َملُونَ َب ِص‬
O you who have believed, remember the favour of Allah upon you when armies came to [attack] you
and We sent upon them a wind and armies [of angels] you did not see. And ever is Allah, of what you
do, Seeing. [Qur’an 33:9]

(d) ‘Without the battles fought by the Prophet, the establishment of Islam would have been
impossible.’ You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using
your own or others’ views to support your answer. (6)(2022)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Some Muslims would agree with this because there have been a number of Islamic battles
that have led to the establishment of Islam. For example, the battle of Badr was a key battle
in the establishment of Islam and the Prophet overcoming his enemies the Quarish. (A02).
For the early Muslims this battle was the first sign that they might eventually defeat their
enemies among the Meccans. The odds were stacked against the Muslims but with Allah’s
guidance the Quarish were defeated and this enabled Islam to grow as a religion as stated
in Surah 33 (A03)
• Muslims would also agree with this as the battles that Muhammad (pbuh) were
preordained by Allah and were necessary in overcoming the enemies of Allah to establish
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Islam as the one true faith that offered salvation to its followers (A02). Each battle was an
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essential step in ensuring the establishment of Islam and is supported by Allah as stated in
Surah 33. This again is demonstrated by the Muslim victory against their Jewish enemies in
the battle of Khyber. This victory then enabled the Islamic faith to spread further beyond
the city of Medina and the beginnings of Islam as a world religion (A03)
• Although the battles of Islam are important in the establishment of Islam, there are other
important reasons in the establishment of Islam. Many Muslims would believe he most
important reason for the establishment of Islam was the revelation of the Qur’an to the
Prophet in the cave in Hira (A02). It is a source of wisdom and guidance that shows Muslims
how they must live good lives and inspires them to struggle for Allah. It is seen as the final
revelation of Allah to mankind. The revelation of the Qur’an is the one event in Islam that,
without it, would have made the establishment of Islam impossible (A03).
َ‫ قَ ْد فَ َرضَ ٱ َّّللُ لَ ُك ْم تَ ِحلَّة‬١ ‫ور َّر ِح ٌۭيم‬ َ ُ‫ى ِل َم تُح َِر ُم َما ٓ أَ َح َّل ٱ َّّللُ لَكَ ۖ تَ ْبتَ ِغى َم ْرضَاتَ أَ ْز ٰ َو ِجكَ ۚ َوٱ َّّلل‬
ٌۭ ُ‫غف‬ ُّ ِ‫يَ ٰـٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّب‬
‫ض أَ ْز ٰ َو ِج ِهۦ َحدِي ٌۭث ًا فَلَ َّما نَبَّأَتْ ِب ِهۦ‬ ِ ‫ى ِإلَ ٰى بَ ْع‬ َ َ‫ َو ِإ ْذ أ‬٢ ‫أَ ْي َم ٰـنِ ُك ْم ۚ َوٱ َّّللُ َم ْولَ ٰى ُك ْم ۖ َو ُه َو ٱ ْلعَ ِلي ُم ٱ ْل َح ِكي ُم‬
ُّ ‫س َّر ٱلنَّ ِب‬
َ ‫ض ۖ فَلَ َّما نَ َّبأ َ َها ِب ِهۦ قَالَتْ َم ْن أَ ٍۢن َبأَكَ َه ٰـذَا ۖ قَا َل نَ َّبأ َ ِن‬
‫ى‬ ٍۢ ‫ضهُۥ َوأَع َْرضَ ع ٍَۢن َب ْع‬ َ ‫ف َب ْع‬ َ ‫علَ ْي ِه ع ََّر‬ َ ُ‫َوأَ ْظه ََر ُه ٱ َّّلل‬
٣ ‫ير‬ ُ ِ‫ٱ ْلعَ ِلي ُم ٱ ْل َخب‬
O Prophet, why do you prohibit [yourself from] what Allah has made lawful for you, seeking the
approval of your wives? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. Allah has already ordained for you
[Muslims] the dissolution of your oaths. And Allah is your protector, and He is the Knowing, the Wise.
And [remember] when the Prophet confided to one of His wives a statement; and when she
informed [another] of it and Allah showed it to him, he made known part of it and ignored a part.
And when he informed her about it, she said, “Who told you this?” He said, “I was informed by the
Knowing, the Acquainted.” [Surah 66:1–3]

(d) Assess the view that Muhammad’s (pbuh) early life was of great importance in preparing him
as a messenger of Allah. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an
provided, using your own or others’ views to support your answer

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Some Muslims would agree because during his early life the Prophet was aware of constant
fighting among the prominent Makkan tribes. He became aware through these conflicts that
cruel men oppressed the weak and the poor (A02). At this early stage of his life, taking into
account the hardships he faced in his own life, he understood the importance that people
should be treated in a fair and just way. This prepared him not only for the battles he would
have to fight to establish the early Islamic community, but that central to his success was his
faith in Allah who protected him through everything as stated in Surah 66:1-3 (A03).
• Some Muslims would agree because Muhammad’s (pbuh) reputation in business and trading
gained him a reputation of honesty and good character. This led him to be of interest to the
rich widow Khadija who became his first wife (A02). They were a blessed couple with a good
family life. It was Khadija’s understanding and unwaivering support of her husband that gave
him the strength to take on the role of Prophet. This supported the strength given through
the revelation of Allah as stated in Surah 66:1-3 (A03).
• Some Muslims would say that although the early life of Muhammad (pbuh) was important
in preparing him for his role as prophet it was not as important as the revelation of the
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Qur’an on the Night of Power (A02). It was this incident when the Prophet was confronted
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with the truth of Allah’s word that provided the preparation he needed. He had the choice
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of taking up his role as the great prophet of Islam or believing it was not his path. He knew it
would be difficult but trusted Allah and so was prepared by Him (A03).

........................................................................................................................

Question 2
2 (a) Identify two ways that Muhammad (pbuh) is considered to be the ‘Seal of the Prophets’. (2)
(2019)

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• Other prophets foretold his coming (1)

• He held unsurpassed moral qualities in how he lived (1)
• His message was for all of humankind (1).

2 (a) Identify two ways Allah communicates with humans. (2)

(2020)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a Maximum of two.

• Allah communicates through the teaching of the Qur’an

• Allah continually communicates by sending angels to earth
• Allah communicates through the life of the Prophet

2 (a) Give two details of the plot to kill the Prophet before the Hijrah. (2)(2021)

AO1 2 marks

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• The Makkans wanted to kill Muhammad (pbuh) because he was threatening their way of
life.
• They agreed that one man from each tribe should strike Muhamamd (pbuh).
• After discussing a number of punishments, they agreed killing Muhammad (pbuh) was the
best option.

2 (a) Identify two ways that the people of Madinah welcomed the Prophet. (2)(2022)

AO1 2 marks

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• People shouted ‘Allah Akbar.’

• People rushed to greet him.
• They held a traditional welcome ceremony.
10

2 (a) Give two of the Prophet’s teachings on human rights. (2)(2023)

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AO1 2 marks
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• He believed everyone had the right to life.

• He believed everyone had the right to justice.
• He believed everyone should live with dignity.

........................................................................................................................

(b) Describe how the Battle of Badr helped the Prophet spread the message of Islam. (3)
(2019)

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• The battle of Badr was the first battle fought by the Prophet (1). This showed that Allah
blessed Muhammad fighting in battle (1), because it was just and was in defence of Islam (1).
• It was the first sign that Muslim forces could eventually overcome opposition in Makkah (1),
showing Muhammad as the leader of the new power in Arabia (1), and Islam was at its
centre (1).

(b) Describe what happened at the Battle of Trench. (3)

(2020)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• The Jews made an alliance with the Quarish to attack the Muslims at Madinah (1), they
attacked the Muslims with ten thousand men (1) this was an attempt by the Jews to take
revenge on the Muslims (1).
• The Muslims defended themselves by building a trench (1), this trench acted as a barrier
against the invading armies (1) the Muslims proved victorious through their faith in Allah (1).

(b) Describe how Muhammad (pbuh) showed respect to his wives. (3)(2021)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Muhammad (pbuh) showed respect to his wives through his honesty and loyalty (1). His
marriages all exemplified a happy and peaceful family life (1). He helped his wives in their
household works and engaged them in his external affairs (1).
• Muhammad (pbuh) showed respect to his wives by treating them as equals (1). This allowed
his marriages to flourish as Allah willed (1) and this was returned to Muhammad (pbuh) by
the loyalty of his wives to him (1).
11

(b) Describe events after the Prophet’s death in Madinah. (3)(2022)

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AO1 3 marks
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Muhammad (pbuh) was buried in Ayesha’s home (1) and mourned because of his great
example and influence (1), which sent shockwaves through the Muslim community.
• Close friends refused to believe the news (1) and threatened anyone who repeated it (1),
until they were reminded by Abu Bakr’s words, God is the true focus of worship (1).

(b) Describe the Prophet’s encounter with Bahira. (3)(2023)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for initial point and a further 2 marks for development that shows understanding, up
to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Bahira was a monk who met with Muhammad (pbuh) and his uncle Abu Talib (1). Bahira
wanted to confirm if Muhammad (pbuh) was the true awaited prophet (1). Bahira
understood that Muhammad (pbuh) was chosen by God and warned him to be careful of
enemies (1).
• Bahira got to know Abu Talib and Muhammad (pbuh) through an invitation to eat (1). During
a conversation with the travellers, Bahira noticed a mark on Muhammad’s back (1), he
explained it was the sign of a great prophet (1).

........................................................................................................................

(c) Explain why the Prophet’s teachings on equality and justice were important in establishing a
peaceful Islamic society. (6)(2019)

A1(3 marks)/A2(3 marks)

• Equality for women has always been a teaching of the Prophet (A01). This is based on the
teaching of the Qurían that states men and women are equal. It is also evident in how
Muhammad (pbuh) spoke of women and lived his life promoting womenís rights by
encouraging men to always be respectful of women (AO2).
• The Prophet himself was a vulnerable orphan and this understanding of his own life was
displayed in the acts of mercy and kindness he displayed to the poor (A01). The Qurían
teaches that all wealth belongs to Allah and so Muslims have a duty to use this wealth to do
Allah’s will (A02).
• Muhammad (pbuh) wanted everyone to care for others and to help them as much as they
could afford (A01). The Prophet had always made it clear that helping others was more
important than keeping for ourselves. The Prophet believed that when we helped those most
in need we were doing the work that Allah wanted (A02).

(c) Explain why it was important for the Prophet to establish mosques immediately after the
Hijrah. (6) (2020)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

12

• The new mosques, as places where they could gather and pray, were a sign that the Muslim
Page

community were setting roots down in a place they were welcome (A01). This enabled the
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Muslim community to feel that they were now in a new home in which they could live their
lives according to the will of Allah. (A02).
• It was a place where Muslims could gather together socially without fear of persecution.
(A01). The mosques were central to giving an identity to the early Muslim community. They
were a sign that the long years of the Hijrah were ended and the mosque was a symbol of
the new life that Allah and Muhammad (pbuh) had delivered to them (A02).
• Mosques are centres of learning as well as places of prayer and by establishing the mosques
the Prophet was able to teach his followers (A01). This helped the community stay focused
on the importance of maintaining the will of Allah in their lives, and also listen to the words
of the Prophet who guided the people (A02).

(c) Explain the importance of the Sunnah of the Prophet for Muslims. (6)(2021)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• The teachings, deeds and sayings of the Prophet are known as the Sunnah. These are
important as a moral guide for Muslims (A01). They are the second most important source of
knowledge for Muslims, and by following the Sunnah Muslims can be confident they are
living in a way that pleases Allah. This will then lead them to Jannah (A02).
• The Sunnah helps Muslims understand exactly what the Qur’an expects of them (AO1).
Although the Qur’an is the complete and unalterable source of knowledge for Muslims, it can
sometimes be difficult for Muslims to know that what they are doing pleases Allah. By
following the example of the Prophet, this ensures that Muslims are being faithful to the
teaching of Allah (A02).
• The Sunnah are the sayings of the Prophet and when written down are called Hadith (A01).
These are essential in allowing Muslims to understand how they should best act individually
and as a community. They enrich the message of Allah that is given in the Qur’an and give
clear instruction on how to live to please Allah (A02).

(c) Explain the significance and importance of the Hijrah for the early Muslim community.
(6)(2022)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Through the Hijrah Islam was not only an act of worship but became a way of life (A01). This
was encompassing politics, economy, social interactions and every other aspect of life. This
was the first time that Islam was looked upon as a comprehensive religion. Muslims moved
from being a small group of people, surrounded by enemies, to a position of a regional
power with a strong central leadership (A02).
• Hijrah was a process of transfer to a better situation (A01). It was not a comfortable place
where one could relax. Rather, it was a search for an environment more favourable to
building the early Islamic community. Immediately after reaching Madinah, the Prophet
undertook the process of establishing a faithful and strong society. Therefore, Hijrah was
important to the early Islamic community (A02).
• Although the Hijrah was only a 200 mile journey between the cities of Makkah and Madinah
it had far more significance for Islam (AO1). It reshaped the Arab peninsula, both socially
and politically, and impacted on other worldwide civilisations. The Hijrah’s impact therefore
13

was something that went global, as the message of Islam moved from the era of Makkah to
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the era of Madinah through Hijrah (A02).

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(c) Explain why the first complete copy of the Qur’an was made. (6)(2023)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• The Qur’an was written on various scattered objects like stones, leaves, planks of wood,
tanned skins and parchments (A01). It was understood that gathering these variety of
sources together into one book would be a better way of keeping and passing down the
Qur’an (A02).
• At the battle of Yamama when many of those who memorised the Qur’an were killed, a new
way of recording the Qur’an was needed (A01). Therefore it was important for Abu Bakr to
order a commission to put together a compilation of all sources of the Qur’an. The
comission gave the finished compilation to Abu Bakr which ensured that the true word of
Allah would be passed on to future generations (A02).
• As the Islamic empire expanded, its armies consisted of soldiers from many different
regions and dialects (A01). This meant there were difficulties in understandings of words or
pronunciations in their holy text. A futher commission that was set up ensured a new
standardised Qur’an, and meant there could be no future attempt to alter it (A02).

........................................................................................................................

‫ّلل‬
َ َّ ‫ص ٱ‬ ِ ‫سولُهُۥٓ أَ ْم ًرا أَن َيكُونَ لَ ُه ُم ٱ ْل ِخ َي َرةُ ِم ْن أَ ْم ِر ِه ْم ۗ َو َمن َي ْع‬
ُ ‫َو َما كَانَ ِل ُم ْؤ ِم ٍۢن َو ََل ُم ْؤ ِمنَة ِإذَا قَضَى ٱ َّّللُ َو َر‬
‫ضلَـ ٌۭ ًًٰل ُّمبِي ٌۭنًا‬ َ ‫سولَهُۥ فَقَ ْد‬
َ ‫ض َّل‬ ُ ‫َو َر‬
It is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a
matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair. And whoever disobeys Allah
and His Messenger has certainly strayed into clear error. [Qur’an 33: 36]

(d) Assess the view that Muslims must follow the Sunnah to gain the approval of Allah. You should
refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views
to support your answer. (12)(2019)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• The Sunnah are the second most important authority in Islam, along with the Qurían. It
contains the teachings all Muslims should know to live a good life (A02). Muhammed (pbuh)
is the final prophet, which means Muslims should consider the Qurían supported by the
Sunnah, to be the perfect revelation of Allah. Therefore, not following the Sunnah is not
doing what Allah wants. This is reinforced in Surah 33 as Allah tells Muslims they must follow
the teachings of his Messenger (A03).
• Allah gave two kinds of revelation: Qurían and the Sunnah. The Sunnah is everything that is
said, done and approved/disapproved by the Prophet and is accepted by all Muslims as a
source of authority (A02). This world is only a preparation for the next and ultimately this life
is a test. If we want to be blessed with life in Jannah, then we must follow the clear
instructions given to us by Allah in the Qurían and his messenger Muhammad (pbuh) as
14

stated in Surah 33 (A03).

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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• The Sunnah are the guidance given to all Muslims in how to live a pure life that is pleasing to
Allah which will help Muslims gain access to Jannah (A02). In many modern societies it can
become difficult to follow all the Sunnah exactly as intended by the Prophet, this is because
many things have changed in the world. There are many people who live good Muslim lives
but may not follow all the Sunnah (for example on marriage). Allah does not abandon those
who love Him and live good lives (A03).
• Sunnah as told by Ahlul Bayt (family of the Prophet)

ِ َّ ‫ّلل ِفى ٱ َّل ِذينَ َخ َل ْو ۟ا ِمن َق ْب ُل ۚ َوكَانَ أَ ْم ُر ٱ‬

‫ّلل قَد ٌۭ ًَرا‬ ِ َّ ‫سنَّةَ ٱ‬
ُ ۖ ‫علَى ٱلنَّ ِب ِى ِم ْن ح ََر ٍۢج ِفي َما َف َرضَ ٱ َّّللُ لَهُۥ‬ َ َ‫َّما كَان‬
‫ َّما‬٣٩ ‫سي ٌۭبًا‬ ِ ‫ّلل َح‬ َ َّ ‫ّلل َويَ ْخش َْونَهُۥ َو ََل يَ ْخش َْونَ أَ َحدًا إِ ََّل ٱ‬
ِ َّ ‫ّلل ۗ َو َكفَ ٰى بِٱ‬ ِ َّ ‫ت ٱ‬ ِ ‫س ٰـلَ ٰـ‬ ً ‫َّم ْقد‬
َ ‫ ٱلَّ ِذينَ يُبَ ِلغُونَ ِر‬٣٨ ‫ُورا‬
٤٠ ‫ع ِلي ًٌۭما‬ َ ‫ّلل َو َخاتَ َم ٱلنَّ ِب ِي ۧـنَ ۗ َوكَانَ ٱ َّّللُ ِبك ُِل ش َْىء‬ ُ ‫كَانَ ُم َح َّمد أَبَا ٓ أَح ٍَۢد ِمن ِرجَا ِل ُك ْم َولَ ٰـ ِكن َّر‬
ِ َّ ‫سو َل ٱ‬
There is not to be upon the Prophet any discomfort concerning that which Allah has imposed
upon him. [This is] the established way of Allah with those [prophets] who have passed on
before. And ever is the command of Allah a destiny decreed. [Allah praises] those who
convey the messages of Allah and fear Him and do not fear anyone but Allah. And sufficient
is Allah as Accountant. Muhammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the
Messenger of Allah and last of the prophets. And ever is Allah, of all things, Knowing. [Qur’an
33: 38–40]

(d) Assess the view that Muhammad (pbuh) is more important than any of the other prophets.
You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (2020) (12)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Muhammad (pbuh) is the greatest of all the prophets as it was to him that the Qur’an was
revealed on the ‘Night of Power’ (A02). He was specially chosen by Allah to bring his
message to all of humankind. Through the revelation of the Qur’an, which is the last
testament of Allah on the earth, and his journey in establishing the early Muslim community,
Muhammad (pbuh) has shown himself to be the last and greatest of the prophets as it states
in Surah 33 (A03).
• It was not only through the revelation of the Qur’an that makes Muhammad (pbuh) the last
and greatest prophet, but in things he said and did. The teachings of the Sunnah shows us his
greatness (AO2). It was through such things as promoting justice and equality to all races and
genders that sets the Prophet apart as the greatest of all. These teachings were all willed by
Allah and they are from the messenger of Allah who is praised by Him as revealed in Surah
33 (AO3).
• The greatness of the Prophet is partly because he is thhe last in a line of many prophets that
were all part of a succession of messengers who played an important part in delivering the
message of Allah, such as Ibrahim (A02). Ibrahim is seen as a great prophet in Islam. He was
the first to reject polytheism and tell people they were worshipping false gods. He was also
given the Scrolls of Abraham, which is the first of the holy books mentioned in the Qur’an
(A03).

ِ َّ ‫جْرتُهُ إلَى‬
‫َّللا‬ َ ‫سو ِل ِه فَ ِه‬ ِ َّ ‫جْرتُهُ إلَى‬
ُ ‫َّللا َو َر‬ َ ‫ فَ َم ْن كَا َنتْ ِه‬،‫ام ِرئ َما َن َوى‬ ْ ‫ َوإِنَّ َما ِل ُك ِل‬،ِ‫إنَّ َما ْاْل َ ْع َما ُل بِالنِيَّات‬
15

‫جْرتُهُ إلَى َما َهاج ََرإلَ ْي ِه‬ َ ‫ام َرأَة يَ ْن ِك ُحهَا فَ ِه‬
ْ ‫جْرتُهُ ِل ُد ْنيَا يُ ِصيبُهَا أَ ْو‬
َ ‫ َو َم ْن كَانَتْ ِه‬،‫سو ِل ِه‬ ُ ‫َو َر‬
Page
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“Actions are (judged) by motives (niyyah), so each man will have what he intended. Thus, he whose
migration (hijrah) was to Allah and His Messenger, his migration is to Allah and His Messenger; but
he whose migration was for some worldly thing he might gain, or for a wife he might marry, his
migration is to that for which he migrated.” [Hadith]

(d) ‘Without the Ansar, the establishment of Islam would have failed.’ Assess this statement. You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Hadith provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (2021)(12)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• The Hijrah is one of the key parts of the establishment of the early Islamic community. The
success of the Hijrah with the support of the Ansar gave the early Muslim community a solid
foundation (A02). The Muhajireen needed support in their time of exile and found it in the
early inhabitants of Madinah – the Ansar. Muhammad (pbuh) established a brotherhood
between the Muhajireen and the Ansar that pleased Allah and ensured the early Muslim
community would thrive and allow Islam to be fully established in the region. (A03)
• When the Muslims arrived in Madinah the Ansar happily welcomed their brothers, giving
them lands, businesses and homes so they could establish themselves in their new home.
(AO2) In the Hadith Muhammad (pbuh) told the early Muslim communinty that their
migration would be judged on their motives. Those that chose to follow Allah and his
messenger, despite the hardship, would be blessed by Allah. This was revealed through the
brotherhood between the migrants and the Ansar. This showed that Allah was pleased and
was in accordance with the Hadith, which explained that pure motives are justly rewarded
(A03).
• Although the Qur’an speaks of the migrants and Ansar as the first and foremost of righteous
believers, they are not the the most important reason for the establishment of Islam. The
reason Islam was sucessful was through the will of Allah (A02). The will of Allah created the
world and the conditions for the establishment of the early Islamic community. Even if the
Ansar had not welcomed the early Islamic community, the power and will of Allah would
have found another way (A03).

َ‫الرحْ َم ِن ع ََّز َو َج َّل َو ِك ْلتَا يَ َد ْي ِه يَ ِمين الَّ ِذينَ يَ ْع ِدلُون‬ ِ ‫علَى َمنَابِ َر ِم ْن نُور ع َْن يَ ِم‬
َّ ‫ين‬ َ ‫َّللا‬ ِ ‫إِنَّ ا ْل ُم ْق‬
ِ َّ ‫س ِطينَ ِع ْن َد‬
‫يه ْم َو َما َولُوا‬ ِ ‫فِي ُحك ِْم ِه ْم َوأَ ْه ِل‬
The Dispensers of justice will be seated on the pulpits of light beside God, on the right side of the
Merciful, Exalted and Glorious. Either side of the Being is the right side both being equally
meritorious. (The Dispensers of justice are) those who do justice in their rules, in matters relating to
their families and in all that they undertake to do. [Hadith]

(d) ‘The Prophet’s teachings on justice and equality were his most important teachings.’ You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Hadith, using your own or others’ views to
support your answer. (12)(2022)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Many Muslims would agree with this as the Prophet respected the rights and equality of all
16

peoples. He demonstrated this through how he lived his own life and through his teaching.
Emphasising the importance of justice and equality in how we treat others (A02).
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Muhammad (pbuh) believed that non-Muslims should be treated with respect and justice in
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

the same manner as Muslims were. This enabled the early Islamic community to expand and
build good relationships with non-Muslim communities because they were seen as a just
people and so blessed by Allah, as it states in the Hadith (A03).
• Muslims would agree because of how the status of women, as wives and mothers, are held
in the highest regard. Muhammad (pbuh) declared that the best of men were those that
treated their wives in a kind way and with good morals. Promoting justice and equality. (A02)
The Prophet, by his very example, illustrated the importance of promoting just relationships
between men and women through marriage. He urged men in relationship with women to
provide financially and always treat women with love and compassion. A man must never
treat a woman harshly and must respect her dignity as a creation of Allah by being just, as
stated in the Hadith (A03).
• Although many Muslims would agree with the teachings of the Prophet on social justice and
equality, most Muslims may not agree that they are his most important teachings. They
would believe that all Sunnah are his most important teachings (A02). The teachings of all
the Sunnah must be followed for Muslims to understand how to act and behave in ways that
please Allah. Things from how a good Muslim should pray to how and what they should eat
It is all Sunnah that are the most important teachings of the Prophet as they contain
guidance on all aspects of life (A03).
ُ‫ّلل ِب ِهۦ َوٱ ْل ُم ْن َخنِقَةُ َوٱ ْل َم ْوقُوذَةُ َوٱ ْل ُمتَ َر ِديَة‬ ِ َّ ‫ير َو َما ٓ أ ُ ِه َّل ِلغَي ِْر ٱ‬
ِ ‫نز‬ِ ‫علَ ْي ُك ُم ٱ ْل َم ْيتَةُ َوٱل َّد ُم َولَحْ ُم ٱ ْل ِخ‬
َ ْ‫ُح ِر َمت‬
ٰ ۟ ‫س ُم‬
‫سق ۗ ٱ ْليَ ْو َم‬ ْ ِ‫وا بِٱ ْْل َ ْزلَـ ِٰم ۚ ذَ ِل ُك ْم ف‬ ْ َ‫ب َوأَن ت‬
ِ ‫ستَ ْق‬ ِ ‫ص‬ ُ ُّ‫علَى ٱلن‬ َ ‫سبُ ُع إِ ََّل َما ذَ َّك ْيت ُ ْم َو َما ذُبِ َح‬ َّ ‫َوٱلنَّ ِطيحَةُ َو َما ٓ أَ َك َل ٱل‬
‫علَ ْي ُك ْم نِ ْع َمتِى‬َ ُ‫وا ِمن دِينِ ُك ْم فَ ًَل تَ ْخش َْو ُه ْم َوٱ ْخش َْو ِن ۚ ٱ ْليَ ْو َم أَ ْك َم ْلتُ لَ ُك ْم دِينَ ُك ْم َوأَتْ َم ْمت‬ ۟ ‫س ٱلَّ ِذينَ َكفَ ُر‬ َ ِ‫يَئ‬
٣ ‫ور َّر ِح ٌۭيم‬ َ ‫ّلل‬
ٌۭ ُ‫غف‬ َ َّ ‫غي َْر ُمتَجَانِ ٍۢف ِ ِْلثْ ٍۢم ۙ فَ ِإنَّ ٱ‬ َ ‫ط َّر فِى َم ْخ َمصَة‬ ُ ‫ض‬ْ ‫سلَ ٰـ َم دِي ٌۭنًا ۚ فَ َم ِن ٱ‬ ْ ‫َو َر ِضيتُ لَ ُك ُم ٱ ْ ِْل‬
Prohibited to you are dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to
other than Allah, and [those animals] killed by strangling or by a violent blow or by a head-long fall or
by the goring of horns, and those from which a wild animal has eaten, except what you [are able to]
slaughter [before its death], and those which are sacrificed on stone altars, and [prohibited is] that
you seek decision through divining arrows. That is grave disobedience. This day those who disbelieve
have despaired of [defeating] your religion; so fear them not, but fear Me. This day I have perfected
for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.
But whoever is forced by severe hunger with no inclination to sin – then indeed, Allah is Forgiving
and Merciful. [Surah 5:3]

(d) Assess the view that the Prophet’s final pilgrimage and sermon contained his most important
teachings. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your
own or others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2023)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Some Muslims would agree with this because this was the last pilgrimage of Muhammad
(pbuh) and in itself was a teaching. He called on the faithful to join him and they did so in
their thousands. This event marked the end his prophethood (A02). This journey was also
the first Hajj and laid out the template that all Muslims have followed since, becoming one
of the key events in the life of all Muslims as they seek to please Allah by following the
example of the Prophet and the legacy of his teaching. The message here is clear,
17

Muhammad (pbuh) has made perfect and approved Islam for the faithful as stated in Surah
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5:3 (A03).
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Some Muslims would agree because the last sermon of Muhammad (pbuh) has a powerful
and progressive message for all mankind. It highlights key aspects of life that affected all at
that time and gave a clear teaching on what was acceptable (A02). Its power is that it is the
first universal declaration of human rights that placed dignity, protection, and respect for all
at its centre. Such teachings were not commonplace at the time and Muhammad (pbuh)
guided the faithful on what Islam and Allah wanted of them as stated in Surah 5:3 (A03). •
Although some Muslims would agree that the final sermon and pilgrimage were important,
they believe his teachings on the revelation of the Qur’an were his most important
teachings (A02). These teachings highlight the importance of the relationship between Allah
and His creation and what must be done to achieve Jannah through living a good life, one
that is pleasing to Allah. The final sermon and pilgrimage are aspects of this but the Qur’an
is the full truth (A03).

........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................

SECTION B – The key beliefs, practices and features of the early Muslim community founded by the
Prophet

Answer ONE question from this section.

3 (a) Identify two examples when Allah’s message was revealed to prophets who lived before
Muhammad (pbuh). (2)(2019)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a Maximum of two.

• Allah revealed some key elements of Islamic faith and law to Musa (1)
• The prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was given Allahís message in the Scrolls of Abraham (1)
• Some key aspects of the truth of Islam were revealed to the prophet Dawud (David) in the
Zabur (Psalms) (1)

3 (a) Identify two roles performed by the angel Izrael. (2)(2020)

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a Maximum of two.

• Izrael is the angel of death

• Izrael watches over the dying
• Izrael takes the soul of people at death and returns them to Allah

3 (a) Identify two examples of how Allah shows His omnipotence. (2)(2021)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of two.

•
18

Allah had the power to create the universe.

• Allah has the power to make miracles occur.
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• Nothing exists that has more power than Allah.

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3 (a) Give two Islamic teachings about lying. (2)(2022)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of two.

• It is unacceptable in any form.

• Lying offends Allah.
• It is a disease that causes harm to people.

3 (a) Identify two holy books given by Allah. (2)(2023)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of two.

• Tawrat is the name of the Torah in Islam.

• Zabur is the holy book of David.
• Injil tells the life of Isa.

........................................................................................................................

(b) Describe what the Qur’an teaches about al-Qadr (predestination). (3)(2019)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• The Qurían teaches Muslims that Allah has a master plan for all creation (1). This reminds
believers that Allah is in control of all things (1), and they must live their lives to please Allah
(1)
• The Qurían teaches Muslims that they have an active part to play in their judgement through
their free will (1). Although Allahís plan will happen, Muslims have to make their own choices
(1) and have influence over their own destiny through these choices. (1)

(b) Describe what Islam teaches about paradise (Jannah). (3)(2020)

AO1 3 marks Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development
that shows development, up to a maximum of three marks.

• Paradise is achieved by following the teaching of the Qur’an (1) and the Sunnah of the
Prophet (1) it is promised to all Muslims that if they live according to will of Allah paradise
will be their reward (1).
• It is described in the Qur’an as the Garden (al’Jannah) (1), and is a place of delights (1). It is
full of the righteous who will all meet in their final home (1).

(b) Describe Muslim teachings on how other people should be treated. (3)(2021)

AO1 3 marks
19
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Muhammad (pbuh) taught that other people should be treated with kindness and respect
(1), this is based on Allah’s teaching that everyone is equal in his eyes (1), and therefore
there is an equality among all human beings (1).
• Muhammad (pbuh) taught all human beings were equal creations of Allah (1). When the
Prophet arrived in Madinah he signed a treaty with the Jews that gave them religious
freedom (1), showing tolerance and respect to people with other beliefs (1).

(b) Describe the role of the angel Israfil. (3)(2022)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Israfil, in Islam, the archangel who will blow the trumpet from a holy rock in Jerusalem (1),
to announce the Day of Resurrection (1). Then the dead will rise (1).
• Israfil is known as the life giver (1) who inspires people to be positive in thought (1) and be
appreciative of the gift of life given by Allah (1).

(b) Describe the Islamic teaching about nifaq (hypocrisy). (6)(2023)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Nifaq is seen as kufr in Islam (1) as it is someone being two faced (1) and this is condemned
in the Qur’an (1).
• Nifaq brings out the worst in the human character (1). It makes people deceitful (1) which
goes against the life and teaching of the Prophet (1).

........................................................................................................................

(c) Explain two reasons why belief in Malaikah is important for Muslims. (6)(2019)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Angels are Godís messengers who obey all of Allahís commands without question and set a
good example for humans (A01). This reminds Muslims of the importance of humility before
Allah. Just as the angels submit to the will of Allah without question, so should humans by
following the Qurían and Sunnah (A02).
• It was through the Angel Jibrail that God gave the message of the Qurían to humans (A01).
Jibrail communicated the Qurían to Muhammed (pbuh) until it was complete. It is for this
reason that Jibrail is considered the most important angel by Muslims. He was the one who
communicated Allahís message to all the prophets (A02).
20

• Angels play key roles in the matters of life and death of humans (A01). According to the
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Qurían, at death, the angel of death takes the soul of humans and returns it to Allah. This
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reminds Muslims of the importance of living a good life so that they will be able to enter
Jannah (A02).

(c) Explain why Islamic etiquette in the treatment of other people is important for all Muslims.
(6)(2020)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Islamic etiquette is of the highest importance because it is what Allah commanded (A01).
When people act in a way that respects the dignity of others, it gains great respect in return,
and this is how good community relations are built between all of humankind (A02).
• It is important because we focus on our own humility and are not overcome with pride or
ego (A01). This helps us understand that, as humans, none of us are perfect, and allows us
to be more forgiving to others and act in ways that promote equality (A02).
• The Qur’an gives clear instruction that people should not gossip or act in judgement of
others (A01). Muslims are told to avoid negative thoughts and actions towards others
because Allah will see their actions as wrong and on Judgement Day they will be called to
answer for their wrong deeds (A02).

(c) Explain how, after the death of Muhammad (pbuh), the early leaders of the Muslim community
helped establish Islam. (6)(2021)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Umar brought a great expansion to the territory of Islam (A01). He took the cities of
Jerusalem, Damascus and Alexandria, placing them at the heart of the new Islamic
territories. By the time of his death the territory had spread as far west as Libya and as far
east as Persia. Thus, ensuring that what Allah willed spread throughout the world (AO2).
• Uthman continued with the expansion of Islam following Umar’s strategy, he tried to
centralise power rather than have it led by various tribes (A01). He also brought the Qur’an
together as one book, as until this point, there had been different versions of the book
among the different tribes. This was a key part in the history of the revelation of Allah to all
humankind (A02).
• Ali was a supporter of Muhammad (pbuh) from an early age. He was seen as someone
devoted to Islam by all Muslims (A01). Ali became Khalifah at a time when Islam was in great
turmoil. He initially didn’t want the role but eventually agreed as he knew the early Islamic
community needed a respected leader to drive the expansion of Islam and the will of Allah
(A02).

(c) Explain the roles and achievements of the early Islamic leaders. (6)(2022)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• After the death of the Prophet the early Islamic community chose the Prophet's close
companion Abu Bakr, as his successor (A01). Abu Bakr was known as the first caliph. Abu
Bakr took swift military action against the communities that wanted to break away. These
campaigns brought Arabia into a single country under Muslim control within two years (A02).
• Ali was seen by many to be the rightful heir to Muhammad (pbuh) after his death (A01). He
21

was seen to have been designated as leader by Muhammad (pbuh) himself on a number of
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occasions. Ali did not dispute the appointment of Abu Bakr, Umar or Uthman as Caliph. He
worked with them in guiding the expansion of Islam before becoming Caliph himself (A02).
• Abu Bakr was succeeded by Umar (A01). Umar found himself the ruler of a large unified
state, with an organised army, and he used this as a tool to spread Islam further in the
Middle East. Umar's early campaigns were against the Byzantine Empire. Within a few years
the Muslims had also conquered parts of Egypt, Anatolia and Armenia (A02).

(c) Explain the importance of ijma to Shari’ah Law. (6)(2023)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Ijma is consensus, and is the third source of Islamic law besides the Qur’an and Hadith
(A01). It is the unanimous agreement among Muslim jurists on any legal issue that has not
been covered in the Qur’an, or the Hadith, after the death of Muhammad (pbuh) (A02).
• Ijma is a source of Shariah law, and is effective when the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the
Prophet are silent on any Shariah issue (A01). Ijma, with all its conditions agreed upon, is an
authority for Muslims and they are bound to follow it. It is unlawful to disobey ijma (A02).
• Muhammad (pbuh) spoke of the importance of ijma (A01). In the Hadith he stated the
ummah will not agree in a mistaken way or on sinful acts. He stated “My nation will not
unite in error”. This Hadith cleary tells that ijma will be free of errors (A02).

........................................................................................................................

‫نز َل ٱ َّّللُ ۖ َو ََل‬ َ َ‫علَ ْي ِه ۖ فَٱحْ كُم بَ ْينَ ُهم ِب َما ٓ أ‬ َ ‫ب َو ُم َهي ِْمنًا‬ ِ ‫َق ُمص َِد ٌۭقًا ِل َما بَ ْينَ يَ َد ْي ِه ِمنَ ٱ ْل ِكتَ ٰـ‬ ِ ‫ٰب ِبٱ ْلح‬ َ َ‫َوأ‬
َ ‫نز ْلنَا ٓ ِإلَ ْيكَ ٱ ْل ِكتَـ‬
ً‫شا ٓ َء ٱ َّّللُ لَ َج َعلَ ُك ْم أ ُ َّم ٌۭةً ٰ َو ِح َد ٌۭة‬
َ ‫ش ْرع ٌَۭةً َو ِم ْنهَا ٌۭ ًجا ۚ َولَ ْو‬ ِ ‫َق ۚ ِلك ٍُۢل َج َع ْلنَا ِمن ُك ْم‬ِ ‫ع َّما َجا ٓ َءكَ ِمنَ ٱ ْلح‬ َ ‫تَت َّ ِب ْع أَ ْه َوآ َء ُه ْم‬
َ‫ّلل َم ْر ِجعُ ُك ْم ج َِمي ًٌۭعا فَيُنَبِئُكُم بِ َما كُنت ُ ْم فِي ِه تَ ْختَ ِلفُون‬ ِ َّ ‫ت ۚ إِلَى ٱ‬ ۟ ُ‫ستَبِق‬
ِ ‫وا ٱ ْل َخي ٰ َْر‬ ْ ‫َولَ ٰـ ِكن ِليَ ْبلُ َو ُك ْم فِى َما ٓ َءاتَ ٰى ُك ْم ۖ فَٱ‬
And We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming that which preceded it
of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allah has revealed and do
not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth. To each of you We
prescribed a law and a method. Had Allah willed, He would have made you one nation [united in
religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so race to [all that is] good. To Allah
is your return all together, and He will [then] inform you concerning that over which you used to
differ. [Qur’an 5: 48]

(d) ‘Shari’ah Law is the only way to unite the Muslim Ummah.’ Assess this statement. You should
refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views
to support your answer. (12) (2019)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• The Shariíah translates as Islamic law based on the Qurían and the traditions of the Prophet,
it is seen as something that, when followed, refreshes the lives of believers because they are
doing what Allah wants (AO2). During the early years of the Islamic community a new legal
system and moral guide to life was needed for believers. This is what led to the creation of
the Shariíah during this time by Muhammad (pbuh) and other community leaders. This is
22

what is revealed in Surah 5 (A03).

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• The Shariíah is seen as an ëIslamic way of lifeí (law) that unifies the Muslim communities
around the world with the intention of enabling all Muslims to flourish and fulfil their
potential (A02). It is a way to common agreement among the different communities as to
what Allah wants of them. This is the law that must be followed as it tells them how they
must live to please Allah and welcome others into the faith of Islam by their good examples
as suggested in Surah 5 (A03). ï
• The Shariíah is based on the teachings of the Qurían and the Sunnah of the Prophet, this
makes it the most important Islamic law (A02) however, there are other sources that provide
guidance on how Muslims should live their lives and have helped Islam adapt to new ages
and cultures, such as ijma (consensus), which allows Muslims to make decisions on what is
acceptable Muslim practice as Muhammed stated, ìMy people will never agree on errorî.
Similarly, qiyas has enabled Islam to encounter new issues in the modern world and
embrace them in the spirit of Islam as Allah intended (A03).
• For Shiaís, following the interpretations of Mujahidss ñ who derive the rules from the Holy
Qurían, Ijmaa, Aql and Sunnah.

َ ‫ش ِقيَّةً أَ ْو‬
ً‫س ِعي َدة‬ َ ‫ب‬ َ ِ‫ َوإَِلَّ قَ ْد ُكت‬،‫ب َمكَانُهَا ِمنَ ا ْل َجنَّ ِة َوالنَّ ِار‬ َ ِ‫سة إَِلَّ ُكت‬َ ‫ َما ِم ْن نَ ْفس َم ْنفُو‬،‫َما ِم ْن ُك ْم ِم ْن أَحَد‬
‫ير‬
ُ ‫سيَ ِص‬ َ َ‫سعَا َد ِة ف‬ َّ ‫ فَ َم ْن كَانَ ِمنَّا ِم ْن أَ ْه ِل ال‬،َ‫ع ا ْلعَ َمل‬ ُ ‫علَى ِكتَابِنَا َونَ َد‬ َ ‫ أَفًَلَ نَت َّ ِك ُل‬،ِ‫َّللا‬
َّ ‫سو َل‬ ُ ‫ فَقَا َل َر ُجل يَا َر‬."
‫او ِة قَا َل " أَ َّما‬ َ َ‫شق‬ َّ ‫ع َم ِل أَ ْه ِل ال‬َ ‫ير ِإلَى‬ ُ ‫سيَ ِص‬ َ َ‫او ِة ف‬َ َ‫شق‬َّ ‫ َوأَ َّما َم ْن كَانَ ِمنَّا ِم ْن أَ ْه ِل ال‬،‫سعَا َد ِة‬ َّ ‫ع َم ِل أَ ْه ِل ال‬
َ ‫ِإلَى‬
‫ ث ُ َّم قَ َرأَفَأ َ َّما َم ْن‬،" ‫او ِة‬ َ َ‫شق‬َّ ‫س ُرونَ ِلعَ َم ِل ال‬ َّ َ‫او ِة فَيُي‬َ َ‫شق‬ َّ ‫ َوأَ َّما أَ ْه ُل ال‬،‫سعَا َد ِة‬ َّ ‫س ُرونَ ِلعَ َم ِل ال‬ َّ ‫أَ ْه ُل ال‬
َّ َ‫سعَا َد ِة فَيُي‬
٩ ‫سنَ ٰى‬ ْ ‫ب بِٱ ْل ُح‬ َ َّ‫ َو َكذ‬٨ ‫ستَ ْغنَ ٰى‬ ْ ‫ َوأَ َّما َم ٍۢن بَ ِخ َل َوٱ‬٧ ‫س َر ٰى‬ ْ ُ‫س ُرهُۥ ِل ْلي‬
ِ َ‫سنُي‬َ َ‫ ف‬٦ ‫سنَ ٰى‬ ْ ‫ق بِٱ ْل ُح‬
َ ‫ص َّد‬ َ ‫ َو‬٥ ‫ط ٰى َوٱتَّقَ ٰى‬ َ ‫أَ ْع‬
١٠ ‫س َر ٰى‬ ْ ُ‫س ُرهُۥ ِل ْلع‬ َ َ‫ف‬
ِ َ‫سنُي‬
[The Prophet said], “There is none among you, and not a created soul, but has place either in
Paradise or in Hell assigned for him and it is also determined for him whether he will be among the
blessed or wretched.” A man said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Should we not depend on what has been
written for us and leave the deeds as whoever amongst us is blessed will do the deeds of a blessed
person and whoever amongst us will be wretched, will do the deeds of a wretched person?” The
Prophet said, “The good deeds are made easy for the blessed, and bad deeds are made easy for the
wretched.” Then he recited the Verses:- “As for him who gives (in charity) and is Allah-fearing And
believes in the Best reward from Allah.” [Surah 92: 5–10]

(d) ‘Nothing happens unless Allah decrees it.’ Assess this statement. You should refer to the
significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to support
your answer. (12)(2020)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Al Qadr is the power of fate or predestination and means that everything in the universe is
following a divine plan according to the will of Allah. (A02). This belief comes from numerous
references in the Qur’an to the way in which things happened in the lives of the prophets,
that they did not realise at the time were part of Allah’s plan. As stated in Surah 92, everyone
has a place assigned to them by Allah (A03).
• Allah is both omnipotent (all powerful) and omniscient (all knowing), this means that Allah
has the power and knowledge to create a divine plan and hold everyone accountable (A02).
23

This means that nothing happens without Allah’s permission and that the sufferings Muslims
undergo in this life are part of Allah’s plan and will be overcome with a good outcome. As
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stated in Surah 92, Muslims must give in charity and fear Allah, if they do this they will be
rewarded by Allah (A03).
• Although Allah is omnipotent and omniscient, this does not mean everything is decreed by
Him, this is because of free will (A02). This means that humans can choose to do things
independently of Allah. It is through this freewill that humans choose their path and will be
judged by Allah through their choices. Humans choose freely but Allah already knows their
choices (AO3).

ِ َّ ‫ع َل ٰى َق ْل ِبكَ ِب ِإ ْذ ِن ٱ‬
َ‫ّلل ُمص َِد ٌۭ ًقا ِل َما بَ ْينَ يَ َد ْي ِه َو ُه ٌۭ ًدى َوبُش َْر ٰى ِل ْل ُم ْؤ ِمنِين‬ َ ‫عد ٌُۭوا ِل ِجب ِْري َل فَ ِإنَّهُۥ َن َّز َلهُۥ‬
َ َ‫قُ ْل َمن كَان‬
٩٨ َ‫عد ٌُۭو ِل ْل َك ٰـ ِف ِرين‬ َ َّ ‫س ِل ِهۦ َو ِجب ِْري َل َو ِمي َك ٰى َل فَ ِإنَّ ٱ‬
َ ‫ّلل‬ ُ ‫ّلل َو َملَ ٰـٓئِ َكتِ ِهۦ َو ُر‬ َ َ‫ َمن كَان‬٩٧
ِ َّ ِ ‫عد ٌُۭوا‬
Say, “Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel – it is [none but] he who has brought the Qur'an down upon
your heart, [O Muhammad], by permission of Allah, confirming that which was before it and as
guidance and good tidings for the believers.” Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His angels and His
messengers and Gabriel and Michael – then indeed, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers. [Qur’an 2:
97–98]

(d) ‘Belief in angels is an essential aspect of Islam.’ Assess this statement. You should refer to the
significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to support
your answer.

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Muslims would agree with this as belief in angels is a core Islamic belief. Angels are eternal
messengers of Allah that can act at any time on Allah’s command and deliver His message to
humankind (A02). In Surah 2 the angel Jibrail revealed the word of Allah to Muhammad
(pbuh) and this is what all of Islam, to this day and forever, relies upon. There is nothing
more important in Islam than the Qur’an as it gives all of humanity the guidance on what
pleases Allah revealed to humankind through the agency of angels. (A03)
• Muslims would agree with this because they are still around in the world and interact with
humans in daily prayer (A02). They remain unseen in many of their duties and can take on
any form depending on what Allah wants them to do. This means that although angels may
not be as visible as they have been in human history, they are still interacting with humanity
as much as before, giving people guidance as expressed in Surah 2. (A03).
• Although angels have played a huge part in the establishment of Islam, angels do not appear
today in the same way as they did in the time of the Prophet. Some Muslims might be
confused about the role of angels because they do not see them in their daily life and no
one else relates to them as a real life experience. This means that Muslims will also seek
guidance from elsewhere (A02). What is most important is the revelation of the Qur’an and
the teachings of the Prophet. All the guidance needed to achieve Jannah is written in the
Qur’an and expressed through the Sunnah (A03).

‫ق‬
َ ‫س َح ٰـ‬ ْ ‫وح َوٱل َّن ِب ِي ۧـنَ ِم ٍۢن بَ ْع ِد ِهۦ ۚ َوأَ ْو َح ْينَا ٓ ِإلَ ٰ ٓى ِإب ٰ َْر ِهي َم َو ِإ‬
ْ ‫س َم ٰـ ِعي َل َو ِإ‬ ٍۢ ُ‫۞ ِإنَّا ٓ أَ ْو َح ْي َنا ٓ ِإ َل ْيكَ َك َما ٓ أَ ْو َح ْي َنا ٓ ِإ َل ٰى ن‬
١٦٣ ‫ورا‬ ُ ‫سلَ ْي َم ٰـنَ ۚ َو َءاتَ ْينَا د‬
ً ٌۭ ُ‫َاوۥ َد َزب‬ ُ ‫س َو َهـ ُٰرونَ َو‬ َ ُ‫وب َويُون‬ َ ُّ‫س ٰى َوأَي‬َ ‫اط َو ِعي‬ ِ َ‫سب‬ ْ َ ‫وب َوٱ ْْل‬
َ ُ‫َويَ ْعق‬
Indeed, We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], as We revealed to Noah and the prophets after
24

him. And we revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, the Descendants, Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron,
and Solomon, and to David We gave the book [of Psalms]. [Qur’an 4:163]
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

(d) ‘The holy books were essential in the establishment of Islam.’ Assess this statement. You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2022)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Most Muslims would agree with this statement as they believe that Allah made one holy
book, the Qur’an, which is the eternal word, and all other holy books given were simply a
copy of this and so held truth (AO2). Muslims believe that since the Qur’an refers to these
books as holy books, parts of them still show what Allah revealed. They believe they are still
holy and fit in with Allah’s plan for the full revelation of the Qur’an. These books are then, in
part, key revelations of Allah to mankind through which salvation was offered and Islam was
established, as stated in Surah 4 (AO3).
• Most Muslims would agree with this as the purpose of the holy books was to inform Muslims
on how they should live a good Muslim life. All of this was revealed through the holy books
in the Tawrat, Zabur, Scrolls of Abraham and Injil as stated in Surah 4(AO2). Books such as the
Zabur have messages which have survived undistorted in the Psalms of the Old Testament.
They believe that Allah gave the Injil to Isa and, being the prophet before Muhammad
(pbuh), he preached the Injil to the Jewish people. All of these books and prophets helped in
the establishment of Islam (A03).
• Although most Muslims would agree that holy books were important in establishing Islam
and giving people a moral understanding of the world. Some Muslims would say the role of
Risalah, not holy books, was essential in establishing Islam (AO2). Since Adam, the role of
prophets had been to teach Allah’s love for his people. Each of the prophets was the loving
voice of Allah for their generation and made people aware of Allah’s compassion and mercy.
They helped Muslims understand the holy books. Therefore, the prophets bringing Allah’s
message to his people were most important in establishing the early Islamic community.
(AO3).

َ ‫ش ِق َّيةً أَ ْو‬
ً‫س ِعي َدة‬ َ ‫ب‬ َ ‫ َو ِإَلَّ قَ ْد ُك ِت‬،‫ب َمكَانُهَا ِمنَ ا ْل َجنَّ ِة َوالنَّ ِار‬ َ ‫سة ِإَلَّ ُك ِت‬َ ‫ َما ِم ْن نَ ْفس َم ْنفُو‬،‫َما ِم ْن ُك ْم ِم ْن أَحَد‬
‫ير‬
ُ ‫سيَ ِص‬ َ َ‫سعَا َد ِة ف‬ َّ ‫ فَ َم ْن كَانَ ِمنَّا ِم ْن أَ ْه ِل ال‬،َ‫ع ا ْلعَ َمل‬ ُ ‫علَى ِكتَابِنَا َونَ َد‬ َ ‫ أَفًَلَ نَت َّ ِك ُل‬،ِ‫َّللا‬
َّ ‫سو َل‬ ُ ‫ فَقَا َل َر ُجل يَا َر‬."
‫او ِة قَا َل " أَ َّما‬ َ َ‫شق‬ َّ ‫ع َم ِل أَ ْه ِل ال‬ َ ‫ير إِلَى‬ ُ ‫سيَ ِص‬ َ َ‫او ِة ف‬َ َ‫شق‬َّ ‫ َوأَ َّما َم ْن كَانَ ِمنَّا ِم ْن أَ ْه ِل ال‬،‫سعَا َد ِة‬ َّ ‫ع َم ِل أَ ْه ِل ال‬
َ ‫إِلَى‬
‫ ث ُ َّم قَ َرأَفَأ َ َّما َم ْن‬،" ‫او ِة‬ َ َ‫شق‬َّ ‫س ُرونَ ِل َع َم ِل ال‬ َّ ‫او ِة فَيُ َي‬
َ َ‫شق‬ َّ ‫ َوأَ َّما أَ ْه ُل ال‬،‫س َعا َد ِة‬ َّ ‫س ُرونَ ِل َع َم ِل ال‬ َّ ‫أَ ْه ُل ال‬
َّ ‫س َعا َد ِة فَيُ َي‬
٩ ‫سنَ ٰى‬ ْ ‫ب بِٱ ْل ُح‬ َ َّ‫ َو َكذ‬٨ ‫ستَ ْغنَ ٰى‬ ْ ‫ َوأَ َّما َم ٍۢن بَ ِخ َل َوٱ‬٧ ‫س َر ٰى‬ ْ ُ‫س ُرهُۥ ِل ْلي‬ِ َ‫سنُي‬َ َ‫ ف‬٦ ‫سنَ ٰى‬ ْ ‫ق بِٱ ْل ُح‬
َ ‫ص َّد‬ َ ‫ َو‬٥ ‫ط ٰى َوٱتَّقَ ٰى‬ َ ‫أَ ْع‬
١٠ ‫س َر ٰى‬ ْ ُ‫س ُرهُۥ ِل ْلع‬ ِ َ‫سنُي‬َ َ‫ف‬
[The Prophet said], “There is none among you, and not a created soul, but has place either in
Paradise or in Hell assigned for him and it is also determined for him whether he will be among the
blessed or wretched.” A man said, “O Allah's Apostle! Should we not depend on what has been
written for us and leave the deeds as whoever amongst us is blessed will do the deeds of a blessed
person and whoever amongst us will be wretched, will do the deeds of a wretched person?” The
Prophet said, “The good deeds are made easy for the blessed, and bad deeds are made easy for the
wretched.” Then he recited the Verses:- “As for him who gives (in charity) and is Allah-fearing And
believes in the Best reward from Allah".
25

(d) Assess the view that only the choices a person makes affect their final judgement. You should
refer to the significance of this passage from the Hadith provided, using your own or others’ views
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to support your answer.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Many Muslims would agree with this. They would state that belief in Al-Qadr is one of the
most important articles of faith and Allah knows the future of all his creation, but how that
future is made is through the choices the person will make (A02). They would say that
although Allah knows what a person will do, it does not affect their free will. Humans have
the freedom to choose the course they will take, either right or wrong. They will be judged
on the basis of their intentions on the Day of Judgement. If they follow Allah’s guidance they
will be rewarded, if they do not they will be punished as stated in the Hadith (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree with this as they would say that humans are partly free and
partly subject to determinstic forces. However, the fact that things are determined is some
way does not affect their judgement (A02). They would only be held accountable for the acts
they intended to do out of free will and would not be held accountable for anything out of
their control. Humans have been shown the two paths of good and evil, through the Qur’an,
and can choose freely between the two. They have to make their choices carefully as stated
in the Hadith (A03).
• Although Muslims agree that free will affects our judgement, some Muslims would disagree
and state that our lives and outcomes on the Day of Judgement are already known and free
will has little impact (A02). They would state that from birth, a person’s judgement has
already been decided, as Allah already knows what decisions they will make and so free will
is an illusion. They would say that fate is given to all humanity by Allah and all Muslims are
required to follow the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah to fufil their fate (A03).

........................................................................................................................

Question 4
4 (a) Identify two occasions when Jibrail revealed Allah’s message to prophets. (2)(2019)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a Maximum of two.

• He revealed the Qurían to Muhammad (pbuh) (1)

• He told Maryam (pbuh) that she would give birth to the prophet Isa (pbuh) (1)
• He told Ibrahim (pbuh) about the birth of his sons, Ishaq and Ismaíil (1).

4 (a) Give two events that will happen at the final judgement. (2)(2020)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of two.

• Everyone will die but will be resurrected

• Everyone will stand before Allah on the plain of Arafat
• People will be judged by Allah according to their deeds
26

4 (a) Identify two ways the Shari’ah was important for the early Muslim community. (2)(2021)
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AO1 2 marks
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• The early Muslim community used Shari’ah as guidance on how to live.

• They used it to worship correctly.
• They used it as guidance in acting justly towards others.

4 (a) Give two characteristics of Allah as shown in the Qur’an. (2)(2022)

AO1 2 marks Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• Allah is seen to be all merciful.

• Allah is seen to be all powerful.
• Allah is seen to be beyond time and space.

4 (a) Identify two categories of Ahkam pentad. (2)(2023)

AO1 2 marks

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 2 marks.

• Fard which is compulsory.

• Maruk which disliked.
• Haram which is forbidden

........................................................................................................................

(b) Describe what Muslims believe about the importance of the Tawrat. (3)(2019)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of three marks.

• Tawrat is a book mentioned in the Qurían that was given to Musa (Moses) as a revelation
from Allah (1), but its guidance became distorted when the people became disobedient to
its teachings (1). This is why the Tawrat is an important Islamic text but falls short of the
word of Allah revealed in the Qurían (1).
• Muslims believe the Tawrat to be a holy book of Islam (1), and its teachings are something
that Muslims respect and share with both Jews and Christians (1), which creates a common
understanding of Allah for all ìpeople of the bookî (1).

(b) Describe what is contained in the Scrolls of Abraham. (3)(2020)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of three marks.
27
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• The Scrolls of Abraham were revelations given to Abraham by Allah (1), which contained the
true teachings of Tawhid – oneness of Allah (1). This was revealed so that Abraham and his
people would worship the one true God (1).
• The scrolls contain important educational advice on how to worship Allah (1) and
encouragement for people in how to live as good Muslims (1). For this reason, Abraham is
revered as a great prophet in Islam (1).

(b) Describe how Muslims display correct manners when eating. (3)(2021)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Muslims have clear guidelines about eating, for example the thumb, index finger and middle
finger should be used (1), and food should be chewed slowly and swallowed after eating (1).
This is seen as an expression of good manners, which is central to Islamic etiquette (1).
• Muslims display good manners while eating by following the example of the Prophet (1),
which is shown in the Sunah (1). Muhammad (pbuh) demonstrates that good manners are
essential to all parts of Muslim life (1)

(b) Describe the Islamic belief about Barzakh. (3)(2022)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Barzakh is the period between a person's death and their resurrection (1). Whoever dies as
a good Muslim will be rewarded (1), and whoever dies disobeying Allah, will be punished
(1).
• Barzakh is a place between this world and the next (1). It is a place of separation of the
living from the dead (1) and separates death from resurrection (1).

(b) Describe the disagreement that occurred over the leadership of Islam after the death of
Muhammad (pbuh). (3)(2023)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Before Muhammad (pbuh) died he asked Abu Bakr to lead prayers (1), this was seen by
some that a successor had been chosen (1). After his death Abu Bakr became head of the
Islamic state (1).
• Ali was the cousin and son in law of the Prophet (1). He was considered by Muslims to be
the legitimate heir to Muhammad (pbuh) but not everyone agreed. (1). He didn’t become
Caliph until 25 years after the Prophet’s death (1).

........................................................................................................................
28
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

(c) Explain why prophets are central to Islamic belief. (6)(2019)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Adam (pbuh) was the first prophet of Allah and the message of Allah was first revealed to
him (A01). Allah taught Islam to Adam and then taught the same religion to all the prophets
through to the final prophet, Muhammad (pbuh). This reminds Muslims that Islam is the
original religion with the true message of Allah (A02).
• Prophets were just human beings who were chosen by Allah to be his messengers. They
were not angels, they were not God like (A01). Even Isa (pbuh) was only human even though
he had a virgin birth. This teaches Muslims that they should have nothing to do with religions
that claim any sort of independent divine status for their leaders (A02).
• All the prophets lived lives whose example could be followed, but Muhammadís (pbuh) must
be the most important one (A01). He was the final prophet, there will be no more prophets
of Allah and so his life provides the perfect example for Muslims to follow (AO2).
• Shiaís believe that Prophets did not commit any sins.

(c) Explain why Allah’s omnipotence is important for Muslims. (6)(2020)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Two of the ninety-nine names of Allah are the ‘Absolute’ and ‘the Allpowerful’ (AO1) and it is
a fundamental belief that Allah has complete power. He has created the universe and so
must have complete power and control over it (A02).
• The belief in Allah’s omnipotence can be seen in the name of the religion; Islam means
submission to Allah’s will (AO1) and Muslims are those who have submitted their will to
service of Allah. Muslims recognise Allah as all powerful and He will reward Muslims through
their service with entry into paradise (A02).
• Allah’s omnipotence also implies his omniscience, and another of his names is ‘All knowing’
(A01). The Qur’an tells Muslims that Allah is in charge of the Day of Judgement; He must
know everything about what humans do, and then has the power and authority to judge
them (A02).

(c) Explain the significance of suffering for Muslims. (6)(2021)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Muslims believe evil and suffering exist because it is the will of Allah (A01). They believe life
is a test and how Muslims respond to evil and suffering is part of this test. For example, Islam
teaches that it is important to work to remove the suffering of others as this will be pleasing
to Allah (A02).
• Many Muslims believe it is humanity that causes evil and suffering not Allah (AO1). Muslims
believe that Allah gave humanity the gift of free will and many humans use this gift in a bad
way causing evil and suffering. This is because they choose actions that work against the
principles of Islam (A02).
• Many Muslims believe that the reason for evil and suffering can never be fully understood
(A01). They believe only Allah’s omniscience can fully understand the significance of
29

suffering, but they believe that Allah allows evil and suffering to make people better Muslims
through their own suffering and by helping others (A02).
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

(c) Explain, with examples, the difference between ‘halal’ and ‘haram’. (6)(2022)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• The concept of halal and haram is a key idea in Islam that dictates what a Muslim can do
and what is not allowed (A01). Halal is a Quranic term that refers to anything that is
considered permissible and lawful under Islam. On the other hand, Haram is the forbidden
things or acts which are punishable according to Shar’iah, the Islamic law. The terms Halal
and Haram are often linked with foods and drinks (A02).
• Halal meat is the flesh of the animal that has been slaughtered in the way prescribed by
Qur'an and Hadith (A01); this method is called 'Zabihah'. This procedure was taught to
Muslims as the best way to slaughter an animal in order to cause it the least amount of
pain. Haram meat is meat that is not slaughtered according to the methods prescribed by
Qur’an and Hadith, and includes dead animals and pork (A02).
• Halal is something that is pleasing to Allah, as decreed in the Qur’an (A01). Muslims live
lives of good intentions in order to be accepted by Allah on judgement day. However, no
matter how pure the intentions are of the believer there are some things that can never be
accepted as they are haram. Things such as drinking alcohol, fornication and adultery and
slander, are all shirk and never permissible (A02).

(c) Explain the importance of manners for Muslims as outlined in the Qur’an. (6)(2023)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Good manners are of great importance in Islam as they represent the core of who the
person is as a Muslim (A01). To present onself humbly to those you meet is seen as showing
a character of high virtue. This means by acting this way a Muslim is showing both
themselves and Islam in a good way, as taught in the Qur’an (A02).
• Good manners are a way of developing the soul and making a person a better Muslim
(A01). It requires practice and a lot of patience to develop good manners towards parents,
neighbours and others. But becoming aware of the Qur’an’s teachings on good manners,
and acting on them, is the path to Jannah (A02).
• In the Qur’an the Prophet is described as the best model of good manners, which are seen
as a way for good to overcome evil (A01). They range from being kind, not gossiping, being
good to guests, helping the less fortunate, to name a few. What underlies all of this is the
making of good relationships between people which creates good society (A02).

........................................................................................................................

٤ ‫ َولَ ْم يَ ُكن لَّهُۥ ُكفُ ًوا أَ َح ٍۢد‬٣ ‫ لَ ْم يَ ِل ْد َولَ ْم يُولَ ْد‬٢ ‫ص َم ُد‬
َّ ‫ ٱ َّّللُ ٱل‬١ ‫قُ ْل ه َُو ٱ َّّللُ أَ َحد‬
Say, "He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there
to Him any equivalent" [Qur’an 112: 1–4]

(d) ‘Tawhid is the most important aspect of Allah’s nature.’ Assess this statement. You should refer
to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to
30

support your answer. (12)(2019)

Page

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• The first pillar of Islam is the Shahadah, this emphasises the importance of the oneness of
God and Tawhid (A02). Tawhid means that Allah is the only God and therefore He must be
the focal point of a Muslimís life. It reminds Muslims that being connected to the oneness of
Allah as expressed in Tawhid. This connection is all they need to live good lives and achieve
Jannah. As stated in Surah 112 ìHe is Allah, [who is] One, Allah the Eternal Refuge]î (A03).
• Tawhid is the goal and mission of all the prophets. It is because of Tawhid that Allah sent
messengers and revealed books (A02). Tawhid reminds Muslims of their purpose in life
which is to connect with Allah and in doing so, submit to the will of Allah. Shirk must be
avoided or repented as this stains Tawhid and works against Allah. Tawhid reminds Muslims
of the unequalled greatness of Allah. As stated in Surah 112 ìHe neither begets nor is born,
nor is there to Him any equivalentî (A03).
• Belief in Tawhid shows that Allah is absolute, beyond compare and so demands complete
submission in everything (A02). However, the Qurían records 99 names for Allah, including
merciful and compassionate. These attributes of Allah will often be more relevant for the
daily lives of Muslims and in their relationships with Allah and with the members of their
family and society (A03).

‫ َوتَكُونُ ٱ ْل ِجبَا ُل‬٤ ‫ث‬ ِ ‫اش ٱ ْل َم ْبثُو‬

ِ ‫اس َكٱ ْلفَ َر‬ُ َّ‫ يَ ْو َم يَكُونُ ٱلن‬٣ ُ‫ َو َما ٓ أَد َْر ٰىكَ َما ٱ ْل َق ِارعَة‬٢ ُ‫ َما ٱ ْلقَ ِارعَة‬١ ُ‫ٱ ْلقَ ِارعَة‬
‫ فَأ ُ ُّمهُۥ‬٨ ‫ َوأَ َّما َم ْن َخفَّتْ َم ٰ َو ِزينُهُۥ‬٧ ‫اض َي ٍۢة‬
ِ ‫ فَ ُه َو ِفى ِعيش ٍَۢة َّر‬٦ ‫ فَأ َ َّما َمن ثَقُلَتْ َم ٰ َو ِزينُهُۥ‬٥ ‫وش‬ ِ ُ‫َكٱ ْل ِعه ِْن ٱ ْل َمنف‬
ٍۢ
١١ ‫َاميَة‬ ِ ‫ نَار ح‬١٠ ‫ َو َما ٓ أَد َْر ٰىكَ َما ِهيَ ْه‬٩ ‫َها ِويَ ٌۭة‬
The Striking Calamity – What is the Striking Calamity? And what can make you know what is the
Striking Calamity? It is the Day when people will be like moths, dispersed, And the mountains will be
like wool, fluffed up. Then as for one whose scales are heavy [with good deeds], He will be in a
pleasant life. But as for one whose scales are light, His refuge will be an abyss. And what can make
you know what that is? It is a Fire, intensely hot. [Qur’an 101: 1–11]

(d) ‘Belief in Akhirah affects the way Muslims live more than any other belief.’ Assess this
statement. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using
your own or others’ views to support your answer. (12) (2021)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• The Islamic understanding of life is based on the belief that we are only passing through this
earthly life, and that it is the life after death that awaits all humankind that is the most
important (A02). This gives all Muslims knowledge that they must act in a way that is
pleasing to Allah in order to be able to enter paradise (Jannah). As it tells us in Surah 101
those who live a life that balances the scales through their good actions, will then be blessed
by Allah with a pleasant life after death (A03).
• The Qur’an teaches that there is life after death. Muslims believe that the Qur’an is the word
of Allah containing everything Allah wants humans to know, therefore belief in Akhirah
affects all aspects of life (A02). This life is a test. Muslims must do their best by following the
teachings of the Qur’an and the prophet. If they do this as best they can, they will be
rewarded by Allah. If they fail, then an eternity in the abyss awaits, as Allah tells us in Surah
31

101 (A03).
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Although Akhirah is a central belief, there are beliefs that are equally as important, such as
Tawhid and belief in the Qur’an, because without these beliefs Akhirah would not be
possible (AO2). It is only by connecting to the Tawhid that a Muslim can recognise their
purpose in life which leads them to absorb the teachings of the Qur’an and the Prophet.
Only by doing this will Muslims have a true understanding of what Akhirah means for
humankind (A03).

‫ فَ ِإن‬١٢٨ ‫وف َّر ِح ٌۭيم‬ ٌۭ ‫علَ ْيكُم بِٱ ْل ُم ْؤ ِمنِينَ َر ُء‬ َ ‫عنِت ُّ ْم ح َِريص‬ َ ‫علَ ْي ِه َما‬ َ ‫س ُك ْم ع َِزيز‬ِ ُ‫ول ِم ْن أَنف‬ ُ ‫لَقَ ْد َجا ٓ َء ُك ْم َر‬
ٌۭ ‫س‬
١٢٩ ‫يم‬ ِ ‫ب ٱ ْلعَ ْر ِش ٱ ْلعَ ِظ‬
ُّ ‫علَ ْي ِه تَ َو َّك ْلتُ ۖ َو ُه َو َر‬
َ ۖ ‫ى ٱ َّّللُ َ َٓل إِلَ ٰـهَ إِ ََّل ُه َو‬ ْ ‫تَ َولَّ ْو ۟ا فَقُ ْل َح‬
َ ِ‫سب‬
There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you
suffer; [he is] concerned over you and to the believers is kind and merciful. But if they turn away, [O
Muhammad], say, “Sufficient for me is Allah; there is no deity except Him. On Him I have relied, and
He is the Lord of the Great Throne.” [Qur’an 9: 128–129]

(d) ‘The most important role of the prophets was to teach Allah’s love for his people.’ Assess this
statement. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using
your own or others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2021)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Muslims would agree with this because since Adam the role of prophets has been to teach
Allah’s love for his people and how he wants them to be with Him (A02). Each of the
prophets was the loving voice of Allah for their generation and made people aware of Allah’s
compassion. However, humans forgot or distorted the message given by the prophets, which
spoke of Allah’s love for humankind. This is highlighted in Surah 9 where it says: ‘Grievous to
him is what you suffer’ (AO3).
• In Surah 9 the prophets are described as people who are sent as guides by Allah. It teaches
that the prophets were ordinary human beings but what made them different was the
message they had to deliver (A02). Muslims believe that by delivering Allah’s message they
were specially chosen to be envoys of Allah’s love for his people. They believe that all
humans were given the job to be Allah’s Khalifah’s, but they need prophets to show them
how to do this properly (A03).
• Although the line of prophets that began with Adam and ended with Muhammad (pbuh) are
a clear way of showing Allah’s love for humanity, some would argue this was not their only or
most important role, which was the saving of souls (A02). It was to ensure that all of
humanity lived to please Allah and so achieve access to Jannah. This was achieved through
the prophets giving clear instruction as to what Allah wanted of His people, which often
challenged how they lived (A03).

٤ ‫ َولَ ْم يَكُن لَّهُۥ ُكفُ ًوا أَح ٍَۢد‬٣ ‫ لَ ْم يَ ِل ْد َولَ ْم يُولَ ْد‬٢ ‫ص َم ُد‬
َّ ‫ ٱ َّّللُ ٱل‬١ ‫قُ ْل ُه َو ٱ َّّللُ أَحَد‬
Say, “He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there
to Him any equivalent.” [Qur’an 112:1–4]

(d) ‘Being creator is the most important attribute of Allah.’ Assess this statement. You should refer
to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to
32

support your answer. (12)(2022)

Page

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Many Muslims would agree with this because to refer to Allah as the creator means that He
created all things and is master of the universe. Allah therefore has no equal and is beyond
compare as something that is perfect as referred to in Surah 112 (AO2). Allah as creator
illustrates Allah’s character through His creation. Allah created a universe that through its
beauty, allows us the see His beauty as creator. The whole of Allah's creation has been
designed and created according to the highest heavenly standard of splendor and order,
impossible ever to be emulated by any other being. (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree with this as Allah brought something out of nothing. From the
chaos of what existed before creation Allah brought the universe into existence. He realised
through creation the order and structure of the universe as we know it (A02). Allah as
creator is not created by anything else, as stated in Surah 112, and his creation exists beyond
this world. As creator he has created an afterlife that is accessible to his greatest creation –
mankind. By following the teachings of the Qur’an and the Prophet, Allah, as creator, not
only created the living world but also the eternal world. (A03).
• Although many Muslims would agree that creator is an important attribute of Allah, some
Muslims would not agree that it is the most important attribute as there are a number of
other important attributes such as merciful and just (AO2). To understand Allah as merciful
and just is very important as it shows that Allah did not leave his creation alone to get on
with their lives as best, they could. He sent the prophets with His word to guide them. It also
reminds Muslims that if they fail to live the perfect Muslim life, he will forgive them so they
go back to the straight path and live a good Muslim life (A03).

‫ فَ ِإن‬١٢٨ ‫وف َّر ِح ٌۭيم‬ ٌۭ ‫علَ ْيكُم ِبٱ ْل ُم ْؤ ِمنِينَ َر ُء‬ َ ‫عنِت ُّ ْم ح َِريص‬ َ ‫علَ ْي ِه َما‬ َ ‫س ُك ْم ع َِزيز‬ِ ُ‫ول ِم ْن أَنف‬ ُ ‫لَقَ ْد َجا ٓ َء ُك ْم َر‬
ٌۭ ‫س‬
١٢٩ ‫يم‬ ِ ‫ب ٱ ْلعَ ْر ِش ٱ ْلعَ ِظ‬
ُّ ‫علَ ْي ِه تَ َو َّك ْلتُ ۖ َو ُه َو َر‬
َ ۖ ‫ى ٱ َّّللُ َ َٓل إِلَ ٰـهَ إِ ََّل ُه َو‬ ْ ‫تَ َولَّ ْو ۟ا فَقُ ْل َح‬
َ ِ‫سب‬
There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you
suffer; [he is] concerned over you and to the believers is kind and merciful. But if they turn away, [O
Muhammad], say, “Sufficient for me is Allah; there is no deity except Him. On Him I have relied, and
He is the Lord of the Great Throne.” [Surah 9; 128–129]

(d) Assess the view that Ibrahim was the most important prophet before Muhammad (pbuh). You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer.

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Many Muslims agree with this because Ibrahim set the path for belief in Allah. He was born
into a polytheistic family but Ibrahim rejected their belief. He argued with his father and
mother against the false gods (A02). He broke the idols the people worshipped showing they
had no power. At this point in human history Allah’s message was revealed to many through
Ibrahim. He condemned idolatry and showed people the truth of Islam as stated in Surah
9:128-129 (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree with this as Ibrahim was given the holy book of the ‘Scrolls of
Ibrahim’. This is considered to be the first holy book of Islam (A02). The Qur’an teaches that
Ibrahim was specially chosen to deliver a message to the nations and that all the prophets
between Ibrahim and Muhammad (pbuh) [Moses, David, Isa] were descendents of Ibrahim.
33

Muslims look to Ibrahim’s teaching on how to live a good Muslim life and achieve Jannah as
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stated in Surah 9:128- 129 (A03).

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Although many Muslims would agree that Ibrahim is a great prophet of Islam, they would
say that there were many other important prophets such as Isa who paved the way for
Muhammad (pbuh) (A02). Isa is referred to as a great prophet in Islam and along with his
mother Miryam is greatly revered in the Qur’an. He is also a key figure linked to the Day of
Judgement and end times. Isa will return to restore justice and defeat the ‘false messiah’
before humanity is judged (A03).

........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
SECTION C – Living the Muslim life today
5 (a) Identify one aspect of Muslim practice on the festival of Eid-ul-Adha. (1)(2019)

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of one.

• Muslims will go to the mosque to pray (1)

• Able Muslims sacrifice animals (1
• Muslims will donate money to charity to help the poor (1).

5 (a) Give one action performed by Muslims when fasting during Ramadan. (1)(2020)

AO1 1 mark

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of one.

• During Ramadan Muslims do not eat or drink from dawn to dusk on each day of Sawm
• When the sun goes down Muslims have a meal to break the fast
• Before the dawn, Muslims have a meal to give strength for the fast

5 (a) Identify one feature of a Muslim birth ceremony. (1)(2021)

AO1 1 mark

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1 mark.

• The Adhaan is whispered in the baby’s ear.

• The baby is given a soft piece of a date to taste.
• The baby’s head is shaved on the seventh day.

5 (a) Identify one feature of a Muslim funeral (Janazah). (1)(2022)

AO1 1 mark

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1 mark.

• The body is washed.

• The body is wrapped in white linen.
• There is a funeral prayer said.
34

5 (a) Give one condition for the declaration of lesser jihad. (2)(2023)
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AO1 1 mark
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1 mark.

• It may be fought to protect the religion of Islam.

• It must lead to peace.
• It can be declared to protect the oppressed.

........................................................................................................................

(b) Describe the features of an Islamic marriage ceremony. (3)(2019)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• The marriage is announced and a Nikah is drawn up (1). This is agreed by the two families
and witnessed by the brideís guardian and two other people (1). A mahr (marriage
dowry/gift) is given to the bride by her husband (1).
• Although not required, an Imam is often present at the wedding ceremony (1). A sermon is
delivered by the Imam quoting relevant verses of the Qurían and Sunnah (1), an informal
speech about marriage is made (1).

(b) Describe the purpose of families in the Islamic faith. (3) (2020)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of three marks.

• It is referred to in the Qur’an as the way in which Allah wants a husband and wife to live (1),
creating a family for children to be born into (1) this is a bond created between the couple
which ensures a family life lived according to Muslim principles (1).
• It is seen as a way to secure the future of Islam through having Muslim children (1), by
teaching them the ways in which Allah wants His people to live (1) and spreading the
message of Islam throughout the world (1).

(b) Describe how Muslims perform Salah in the mosque. (3)(2021)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• They will wash before prayer (1), this is a sign of a Muslim making themselves pure before
Allah (1). They then face Makkah and ready themselves for prayer (1).
• The worshippers stand in lines behind the Imam (1), who leads them through prayer ritual
(1). Worshipping with others reminds Muslims that all are equal before Allah (1).
35

(b) Describe how some Muslims commemorate the events of Ashura. (3)(2022)
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AO1 3 marks
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• For Shi'a Muslims, rituals and observances on Ashura consist primarily of public expressions
(1) of mourning and grief (1). This is intended to connect them with Hussain's suffering and
death (1).
• During this time Sunni Muslims fast (1) and remember those less fortunate than themselves
(1). They remember the time Noah left the Ark and Allah saved Musa from the Egyptians (1).

(b) Describe how the Shahadah is used in Muslim daily practice. (3)(2023)

AO1 3 marks

Award 1 mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• The Shahadah is recited in the call to prayer (1). Muslims also recite the Shahadah in their
prayer (1) which unites the Ummah (1).
• It is recited at key moments in life (1), such as after birth and before death (1). They are the
first and last words a Muslim hears (1).

........................................................................................................................

(c) Explain why performing Hajj is important for many Muslims. (6)(2019)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and all Muslims (if possible) are required to attend Hajj at least
once in their lifetime (A01). If Muslims do this, they can die happy as they have followed the
example and actions of the Prophet in the very places the Prophet himself performed them
(A02).
• Hajj shows devotion to Allah by fulfilling this expensive, for many, pilgrimage (A01). It is the
holiest event in Islam and it is here that a pilgrim gets as close to Allah as possible in this life.
Praying on Hajj is something that connects all pilgrims at the same time to Allah (AO2).
• On their return from Hajj, pilgrims can be called Hajji which is seen as a title of honour
among Muslims (AO1). Muslims are then held in high regard in their local community for
making the Hajj and now realise that because of the pilgrimage their sins are forgiven, so
they must strive to live as a perfect Muslim (A02).

(c) Explain why Eid-ul-Fitr is an important festival for Muslims. (6)(2020)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• The festival occurs at the end of Ramadan and is not only a celebration of the end of the fast,
but also the successful completion of it (A01). The first Eidul-Fitr was celebrated by the
Prophet and so Muslims feel, by copying the Prophet, they are becoming close to him while
they celebrate (AO2).
36
Page
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Eid-ul-Fitr gains its meaning from the practice of Sawm and the Qur’anic instruction to fast
during Ramadan (A01). Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr because they will gain many benefits
from the completion of the fast and their obedience to the instruction of Allah. (A02).
• It unites all family members, friends, neighbours and members of the community to share
their joy in the hope of gaining salvation from Allah. (A01). Celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr reminds
Muslims that through the fast of Ramadan, their sins are forgiven, and they have become
close to Allah through their actions (A02).

(c) Explain the difference between the greater (inner) and lesser (outer) jihad. (6)(2021)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Muslims believe the greater Jihad is the struggle of making oneself the perfect Muslim (A01).
This means `striving by might and main’, whether living in a Muslim or non-Muslim society.
Once Muslims have strived to make themselves pure, they can then focus on making society
pure which is the lesser jihad (A02).
• By their greater Jihad Muslims make sure that their lives are pure in following all the
teachings of Islam (A01). The lesser jihad is concerned with bringing Allah’s law and justice to
the world. This can only be achieved by bringing the whole world to Islam and so into an
abode of peace (A02).
• The greater jihad is a daily struggle of overcoming temptation, living in a state of halal and
avoiding haram (A01). The lesser jihad seeks to take this personal state and tackle issues in
society in the name of Allah. Issues such as unfair trading, poverty and lack of education. The
greater jihad is therefore a personal challenge which then reaches out to changing the world
through the lesser jihad (AO2).

(c) Explain the challenges of citizenship a Muslim may face today. (6)(2022)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Citizenship can be challenging for Muslims as some aspects of citizenship may be contrary to
Islamic belief (AO1). If a devoted Muslim wished to pray five times each day this may
interrupt their work, as directed by the country and community they lived within. This may
cause serious challenges to how a Muslim is able to adapt as a full citizen in a secular country
(A02).
• Citizenship can also cause problems for a Muslim as Islamic teaching on shirk may run in
direct conflict with a Muslim’s faith (AO1). If a Muslim was told that they must act and
support someone who is homosexual. A Muslim may find this difficult as there are teachings
within Islam that refer to homosexuality as shirk and something that cannot be advocated in
anyway (A02).
• In the issue of what is halal and directly related to food, this could also cause problems in
relation to a Muslim’s citizenship (A01). A Muslim is directed to eat meat that is killed in
accordance with Islamic belief. However, in some countries this form of slaughtering animals
may be deemed illegal which would be a great challenge to a Muslim living as a citizen in
that country (A02).

(c) Explain Muslim teachings on the purpose of families. (6)(2023)

37

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

Page
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Muhammad (pbuh) had a family and spoke highly of the importance of family life. Muslims
follow Muhammad’s teaching on this (A01). The Prophet taught that it is important to have a
family for someone to prolong their life and increase their wealth and well being (A02).
• Traditional Muslim understanding comes from the Hadith which explains the husband is the
guardian of his household (A01). It also explains that the woman is the guardian of their
property, and must remain loyal to him and guide the children in the Islamic tradition (A02).
• Muslims believe that family life is the foundation of human society and increases the
Ummah (A01) providing a secure, healthy and nurturing environment for parents and
growing children. The family is the best place to pass on and develop virtues such as mercy
and compassion (A02).

........................................................................................................................

‫وا ٱ ْلبَ ْي َع ۚ ٰذَ ِل ُك ْم َخي ٌْۭر لَّ ُك ْم‬ ۟ ‫ّلل َوذَ ُر‬
ِ َّ ‫سعَ ْو ۟ا ِإلَ ٰى ِذك ِْر ٱ‬
ْ ‫صلَ ٰو ِة ِمن يَ ْو ِم ٱ ْل ُج ُمعَ ِة فَٱ‬ َ ‫يَ ٰـٓأَيُّهَا ٱ َّل ِذينَ َءا َمنُ ٓو ۟ا ِإذَا نُود‬
َّ ‫ِى ِلل‬
‫يرا‬ً ٌۭ ِ‫ّلل َكث‬َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬۟ ‫ّلل َوٱ ْذك ُُر‬ ِ َّ ‫ض ِل ٱ‬ْ َ‫وا ِمن ف‬ ۟ ُ‫ض َوٱ ْبتَغ‬ ۟ ‫ش ُر‬
ِ ‫وا فِى ٱ ْْل َ ْر‬ ِ َ‫صلَ ٰوةُ فَٱنت‬
َّ ‫ت ٱل‬ ِ َ‫ فَ ِإذَا قُ ِضي‬٩ َ‫إِن كُنت ُ ْم تَ ْعلَ ُمون‬
‫ّلل َخي ٌْۭر ِمنَ ٱللَّ ْه ِو‬ ِ َّ ‫ َوإِذَا َرأَ ْو ۟ا تِ َجـ َٰرةً أَ ْو لَه ًْوا ٱنفَض ُّٓو ۟ا إِلَ ْيهَا َوتَ َركُوكَ قَآئِ ًٌۭما ۚ قُ ْل َما ِعن َد ٱ‬١٠ َ‫لَّعَلَّ ُك ْم ت ُ ْف ِل ُحون‬
١١ َ‫لر ِزقِين‬ َّ ٰ ‫َو ِمنَ ٱلتِ َجـ َٰر ِة ۚ َوٱ َّّللُ َخي ُْر ٱ‬
O you who have believed, when [the adhan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu'ah [Friday],
then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if you only knew.
And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of
Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed. But when they saw a transaction or a
diversion, [O Muhammad], they rushed to it and left you standing. Say, "What is with Allah is better
than diversion and than a transaction, and Allah is the best of providers." [Qur’an 62: 9–11]

(d) ‘All Muslims must attend the mosque for Friday (Jummah) prayer.’ Assess this statement. You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2019)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Salah is central to the lives of all Muslims and is something that must be regular is the lives
of believers. Friday is the most important day of prayer as it is what was commanded by the
Prophet and willed by Allah (A02). Communal gathering in the mosque is a meeting of
members of the Muslim community and their prayers put Muslims in direct contact with
Allah and each other. This should occur five times a day. It reminds Muslims every day that
Allah will bless their prayers, as Allah teaches in Surah 62:9-11 (A03).
• Salah is one of the five pillars of Islam and performing it gives Muslims a discipline that
forces them to take their religious life seriously. It is through this prayer focus that Muslims
have their sins forgiven. (A02). Saying Friday prayer (Jummah) at the mosque unites Muslims
with their fellow believers as they stand performing the same actions and saying the same
words. This unity in worship on Friday is singled out for special prayer and Muslims must not
38

be distracted from Friday prayer as Allah controls all things, as they are reminded in Surah
62 (A03).
Page
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Friday is the sixth day in the Islamic week and its literal translation is ëcongregationí. This,
along with surah 62 in the Qurían shows the importance of Friday prayer and places a
special focus on praying at this time (A02). However, many Muslims now live in countries in
which they are expected to work all day on a Friday and so miss Jummah. This makes it
impossible to attend Jummah as if they did they would lose their job. Also, family life
demands responsibilities which may prevent some believers, (for example mothers) from
attending Jummah (AO3).

‫وا ٱ ْلبَ ْي َع ۚ ٰذَ ِل ُك ْم َخي ٌْۭر لَّ ُك ْم‬ ۟ ‫ّلل َوذَ ُر‬
ِ َّ ‫سعَ ْو ۟ا ِإلَ ٰى ِذك ِْر ٱ‬
ْ ‫صلَ ٰو ِة ِمن يَ ْو ِم ٱ ْل ُج ُمعَ ِة فَٱ‬ َ ‫يَ ٰـٓأَيُّهَا ٱ َّل ِذينَ َءا َمنُ ٓو ۟ا ِإذَا نُود‬
َّ ‫ِى ِلل‬
‫يرا‬ً ٌۭ ِ‫ّلل َكث‬َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬۟ ‫ّلل َوٱ ْذك ُُر‬ ِ َّ ‫ض ِل ٱ‬ْ َ‫وا ِمن ف‬ ۟ ُ‫ض َوٱ ْبتَغ‬ ۟ ‫ش ُر‬
ِ ‫وا فِى ٱ ْْل َ ْر‬ ِ َ‫صلَ ٰوةُ فَٱنت‬
َّ ‫ت ٱل‬ ِ َ‫ فَ ِإذَا قُ ِضي‬٩ َ‫إِن كُنت ُ ْم تَ ْعلَ ُمون‬
‫ّلل َخي ٌْۭر ِمنَ ٱللَّ ْه ِو‬ ِ َّ ‫ َوإِذَا َرأَ ْو ۟ا تِ َجـ َٰرةً أَ ْو لَه ًْوا ٱنفَض ُّٓو ۟ا إِلَ ْيهَا َوتَ َركُوكَ قَآئِ ًٌۭما ۚ قُ ْل َما ِعن َد ٱ‬١٠ َ‫لَّعَلَّ ُك ْم ت ُ ْف ِل ُحون‬
١١ َ‫لر ِزقِين‬ َّ ٰ ‫َو ِمنَ ٱلتِ َجـ َٰر ِة ۚ َوٱ َّّللُ َخي ُْر ٱ‬
O you who have believed, when [the adhan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu'ah [Friday],
then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if you only knew.
And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of
Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed. But when they saw a transaction or a
diversion, [O Muhammad], they rushed to it and left you standing. Say, "What is with Allah is better
than diversion and than a transaction, and Allah is the best of providers." [Qur’an 62: 9–11]

(d) ‘Performing Salah is the most important obligation of Islam.’ Assess this statement. You should
refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views
to support your answer. (12)(2020)
AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Salah is the ritual prayer of Islam performed five times a day. It was performed by the
Prophet and so Muslims are following his example when they pray, which reminds them of
the importance of living a good life (A02). By focusing each day on Salah, Muslims are
reminded of the importance of putting Allah above all things. All good Muslims must live a
prayer-centred life, even at the expense of work, to please Allah and enter paradise (Jannah)
as Surah 62 teaches (A03).
• Salah also reminds Muslims of the fundamentals of Islam: submission and peace. The
discipline that is created through Salah is a constant reminder of the need to put Islam at
the centre of a Muslim’s heart (AO2). This ensures that they are following the command that
all Muslims must pray, which is given in the Qur’an, and that through the act of prayer
Muslims have their sins forgiven. By doing this Allah will reward them and take care of them
in their lives, as described in Surah 62 (A03).
• Although Salah is an important obligation of Islam, and through prayer Muslims are
connected to Allah, society has changed since the time of the Prophet and praying five times
39

a day is no longer practical for some Muslims due to work commitments (A02). Some
Page

Muslims may say that Shahadah is the foundation of Islam and therefore reciting it is the
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

most important obligation of Islam. All the obligations are important in their own way as
each is created to ensure that a Muslim can be raised up on the Last Day and be judged by
Allah who will see their deeds and allow them to enter paradise (Jannah) (A03).

‫وا ِم ْن‬ ۟ ُ‫ق َو ََل ِجدَا َل فِى ٱ ْلحَج ۗ َو َما تَ ْفعَل‬ َ ‫سو‬ ُ ُ‫ث َو ََل ف‬ َ َ‫يهنَّ ٱ ْل َح َّج فَ ًَل َرف‬
ِ ِ‫ٰت ۚ فَ َمن فَ َرضَ ف‬ ْ َ‫ٱ ْل َح ُّج أ‬
ٌۭ ‫ش ُه ٌۭر َّم ْعلُو َمـ‬
ِ
‫علَ ْي ُك ْم ُجنَاح أَن‬ َ ‫ْس‬ َ ‫ لَي‬١٩٧ ‫ب‬ ِ ‫ون يَ ٰـٓأ ُ ۟و ِلى ٱ ْْل َ ْلبَ ٰـ‬ َّ ‫ُوا فَ ِإنَّ َخي َْر ٱ‬
ِ ُ‫لزا ِد ٱلت َّ ْق َو ٰى ۚ َوٱتَّق‬ ۟ ‫َخي ٍْۢر يَ ْعلَ ْمهُ ٱ َّّللُ ۗ َوتَ َز َّود‬
‫شعَ ِر ٱ ْلح ََر ِام ۖ َوٱ ْذك ُُروهُ َك َما َه َد ٰى ُك ْم‬ ْ ‫ّلل ِعن َد ٱ ْل َم‬ ۟ ‫ضتُم ِم ْن ع ََرفَـ ٍٰۢت فَٱ ْذك ُُر‬
َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬ ْ َ‫ض ٌۭ ًًل ِمن َّر ِب ُك ْم ۚ فَ ِإذَآ أَف‬ ْ َ‫وا ف‬ ۟ ُ‫تَ ْبتَغ‬
‫ور‬ ٌۭ ُ‫غف‬ َ ‫ّلل‬َ َّ ‫ّلل ۚ إِنَّ ٱ‬
َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬۟ ‫ستَ ْغ ِف ُر‬
ْ ‫اس َوٱ‬ ُ َّ‫ْث أَفَاضَ ٱلن‬ ُ ‫ُوا ِم ْن َحي‬ ۟ ‫ ث ُ َّم أَفِيض‬١٩٨ َ‫ضا ِٓلين‬ َّ ‫َوإِن كُنتُم ِمن قَ ْب ِل ِهۦ لَ ِمنَ ٱل‬
١٩٩ ‫َّر ِح ٌۭيم‬
Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by
entering the state of ihram], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no
disputing during Hajj. And whatever good you do – Allah knows it. And take provisions, but indeed,
the best provision is fear of Allah. And fear Me, O you of understanding. There is no blame upon you
for seeking bounty from your Lord [during Hajj]. But when you depart from ’Arafat, remember Allah
at al-Mash’ar al-Haram. And remember Him, as He has guided you, for indeed, you were before that
among those astray. Then depart from the place from where [all] the people depart and ask
forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. [Qur’an 2: 197–199]

(d) ‘There are more benefits than challenges to performing Hajj.’ Assess this statement. You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2021)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and all Muslims should try and go on Hajj as, if they do, they
receive great bounty from Allah as stated in Surah 2 (A02). Muslims believe that they are
following in the footsteps of Muhammad (pbuh) by performing Hajj. They believe that by
following the example of the Prophet they will receive special blessings from Allah. Muslims
believe that by performing Hajj they are showing their devotion to Allah because of the
effort it takes to do so (A03).
• By performing Hajj Muslims have taken part in the holiest event in the Muslim calendar,
and come as close to Allah as is possible in this world, during the time spent on Hajj (AO2).
Muslims spend time with other believers from all over the world, which reminds them that
they are all part of the Ummah, sharing Allah’s blessings during Hajj. Even though they all
come from different cultures, sometimes even speaking different languages, when on Hajj
they unite in the same actions and prayers. (AO3).
• Although Hajj is very important in the lives of all Muslims and to attend Hajj is a great
achievement, for some Muslims, attending Hajj can cause many difficulties, including loss of
life (A02). Hajj has great benefits but is not something that all Muslims must do. They would
say praying five times a day can provide greater strength to a Muslim than Hajj. They might
also say that using your money to help those in poverty is a better use of money than
paying for a trip to go on Hajj, as it relieves suffering (A03).

‫س ُكنُ ٓو ۟ا ِإلَ ْيهَا َو َج َع َل َب ْينَكُم َّم َو َّد ٌۭةً َو َرحْ َمةً ۚ ِإنَّ ِفى ٰ َذ ِلكَ لَـَٔا َيـ ٍٰۢت‬
ْ َ‫س ُك ْم أَ ْز ٰ َو ٌۭ ًجا ِلت‬
ِ ُ‫ق لَكُم ِم ْن أَنف‬
َ َ‫َو ِم ْن َءا َي ٰـ ِت ِهۦٓ أَ ْن َخل‬
٢١ َ‫ِلقَ ْو ٍۢم يَتَفَك َُّرون‬
40
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquillity in
them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who
give thought. [Qur’an 30:21]

(d) ‘Marriage is the most important personal relationship in Islam.’ Assess this statement. You
should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or
others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2022)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Many Muslims would agree with this as all Muslims are expected to get married as part of
their duty to Allah. Marriage is mentioned many times in the Qur'an, as revealed to the
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) (A02). Therefore, they follow its teachings on marriage. The
purpose of marriage is to raise children in the Islamic faith and to be faithful to your
husband/wife. Spreading the faith is important in Islam and it is permissible for a Muslim
man to take 4 wives (though this practice is not often used now). If this does occur each
wife must be treated equally as stated in Surah 30 (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree with this because one of the main purposes of marriage is to
have children and create families. The family is the building block on which the Islamic
tradition is built on. Strong Islamic family life builds strong Islamic society (A02). The family
cannot exist outside marriage and there are clear, defined roles within the family that exist
to support the family and strengthen the Ummah. The man acts as provider and the woman
secures the home as a place of love, prayer and education in bringing children up in the
Islamic way as stated in Surah 30 (A03).
• Although many Muslims would agree that marriage is an important relationship in Islam as
it creates families and spreads the faith, some Muslims would say the most important
relationship is between Allah and his worshippers (A02). The relationship between a person
and Allah is the centre point from which all good things flow. Doing what pleases Allah, as
outlined in the Qur’an and through the Prophet, enlightens Muslims in all their relationships
and it is this which strengthens the Ummah more than any other relationship (A03).

‫وا ٱ ْلبَ ْي َع ۚ ٰذَ ِل ُك ْم َخي ٌْۭر لَّ ُك ْم‬ ۟ ‫ّلل َوذَ ُر‬
ِ َّ ‫سعَ ْو ۟ا إِلَ ٰى ِذك ِْر ٱ‬
ْ ‫صلَ ٰو ِة ِمن يَ ْو ِم ٱ ْل ُج ُمعَ ِة فَٱ‬ َ ‫يَ ٰـٓأَيُّهَا ٱ َّل ِذينَ َءا َمنُ ٓو ۟ا إِذَا نُود‬
َّ ‫ِى ِلل‬
‫يرا‬ً ٌۭ ِ‫ّلل َكث‬َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬۟ ‫ّلل َوٱ ْذك ُُر‬ ِ َّ ‫ض ِل ٱ‬ْ َ‫وا ِمن ف‬ ۟ ُ‫ض َوٱ ْبتَغ‬ ۟ ‫ش ُر‬
ِ ‫وا فِى ٱ ْْل َ ْر‬ ِ َ‫صلَ ٰوةُ فَٱنت‬
َّ ‫ت ٱل‬ ِ َ‫ فَ ِإذَا قُ ِضي‬٩ َ‫ِإن كُنت ُ ْم تَ ْعلَ ُمون‬
‫ّلل َخي ٌْۭر ِمنَ ٱللَّ ْه ِو‬ ِ َّ ‫ َوإِذَا َرأَ ْو ۟ا تِ َجـ َٰرةً أَ ْو لَه ًْوا ٱنفَض ُّٓو ۟ا إِلَ ْيهَا َوتَ َركُوكَ قَآئِ ًٌۭما ۚ قُ ْل َما ِعن َد ٱ‬١٠ َ‫لَّعَلَّ ُك ْم ت ُ ْف ِل ُحون‬
١١ َ‫لر ِزقِين‬ َّ ٰ ‫َو ِمنَ ٱلتِ َجـ َٰر ِة ۚ َوٱ َّّللُ َخي ُْر ٱ‬
O you who have believed, when [the adhan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu'ah [Friday],
then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if you only knew.
And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of
Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed. But when they saw a transaction or a
diversion, [O Muhammad], they rushed to it and left you standing. Say, “What is with Allah is better
than diversion and than a transaction, and Allah is the best of providers.” [Surah 62:9–11]

(d) Assess the view that the main purpose of Salah is to unite all Muslims. You should refer to the
significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to support
your answer. (12)(2023)
41

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Many Muslims would agree as Salah is central to the lives of all Muslims, and must be
regular in the lives of believers. Salah is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and so was
commanded by the Prophet and willed by Allah (AO2). Communal gathering in the mosque
for Jamm’ah, including Friday and Eid prayers, is a meeting of members of the Muslim
community and their prayer puts them in direct contact with Allah and each other. Salah
prayers should occur five times each day, gathering the community together. It reminds
Muslims every day that they are brothers and sisters and that Allah blesses their prayers, as
Allah teaches in Surah 62:9-11 (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree as performing Salah give Muslims a discipline that forces them
to take the religious life seriously. It is through this prayer-focus that Muslims have their sins
forgiven. (A02). Friday (Jummah) prayer unites Muslims at the mosque as they stand
performing the actions and prayers as one unified group. This unity on a Friday is singled out
as special prayer that unifies the Muslim community before Allah. This is what Allah asks of
all Muslims in Surah 62:9-11 (A03).
• Although Muslims would agree that Salah unites Muslims, praying as a community is not
something all Muslims are able to do. If someone is looking after young children, this may
make it difficult to get to the mosque. (A02). Also, in moden times, very often people have
jobs that can make it impossible to get to the mosque. If they choose to go and pray in the
mosque, rather than do their job, they could get fired. This means that people in these
positions can pray to Allah when they find the available time. They pray, but as individuals
and not as part of the community. Also, because Muslims sometimes pray in different ways,
this can be a source of division rather than unity (A03).

........................................................................................................................

Question 6
6 (a) Identify one action that is performed in wudu (ablution). (1)(2019)

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1.

• Take water into your mouth and inhale water into your nose (1)
• Wash your face 3 times, from right to left, hairline to chin (1)
• Wash your lower arms 3 times from wrist to elbows (1)

6 (a) Identify one act that pilgrims perform while on Hajj. (1)(2020)

AO1 1 mark

Award one mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of one.

• They circle the Ka’ba seven times

• They must wear the ihram for the duration of the pilgrimage
42

• They walk eight kilometres overnight from Mina to Arafat

Page

6 (a) Identify one role of a Muslim leader today. (1)(2021)

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

AO1 1 mark

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1 mark.

• Leading Muslims in the community according to the will of Allah.

• Leading Muslims in business in an Islamic way.
• Leading Muslims in worship.

6 (a) Identify one reason that would exempt a Muslim from fasting. (1)(2022)

AO1 1 mark

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1 mark.

• If a Muslim is sick in anyway.

• If a Muslim is travelling on a long journey.
• Women who are pregnant or in a stage of breast feeding.

6 (a) Identify one Islamic festival observed by all Muslims. (1)(2023)

AO1 1 mark

Award 1 mark for each point identified, up to a maximum of 1 mark.

• Ashura is observed by all Muslims.

• Eid ul Adha is observed by all Muslims.
• Eid ul Fitr is observed by all Muslims.

........................................................................................................................

(b) Describe what is meant by the Greater Jihad. (3)(2019)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of three marks.

• Jihad means to strive and the `Greater Jihadí is striving to be the perfect Muslim / fighting
against your own temptation and desires (1). This includes striving to perform all of the Five
Pillars properly (1) and committing to follow the Shariíah (1).
• Greater Jihad requires Muslims to strive to follow all the teachings of Allah (1). This includes
following the perfect example of the Prophet (1), and ëbe pleasing to Allahí so that one will
be allowed into paradise (1).

(b) Describe how Muhammad (pbuh) is a good example for Muslim leaders today. (3)(2020)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further two marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of three marks.
43
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• He lived a life of complete submission to the will of Allah (1), by practising good and
obligatory acts and avoiding sin (1), this example is followed as good leaders are required to
practice good habits (1).
• He demonstrated compassion to the fiercest of enemies after defeating them in battle (1).
He established political and social alliances with Jews and Christians (1), which teaches
Muslim leaders today the importance of living together in peace and harmony. (1)

(b) Describe the features of a Muslim funeral ceremony. (3)(2021)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• When the person dies, they are wrapped in a white cloth (1) and buried facing Makkah (1).
This ensures the body is buried in accordance with Islamic tradition (1).
• At the funeral the community gathers to pray (1). This prayer is called the Janzah prayer (1)
and it is said for the forgiveness of sins for the deceased (1).

(b) Describe what Muslims believe about the giving of Zakah. (3)(2022)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Zakah is the third pillar of Islam (1). Muslims give Zakah as a compulsory donation of 2.5% of
their annual wage (1). It is seen as a form of worship and self purification (1).
• Zakah is a Muslims duty to support the less fortunate through their donation (1). The giving
of wealth also reflects obedience to Allah (1) and understanding that everything comes from
Allah (1).

(b) Describe how some Muslims give Khums. (3)(2023)

AO1 3 marks

Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a further 2 marks for development that shows
development, up to a maximum of 3 marks.

• Khums is a tax that is applied to the income of some Muslims (1); it consists of a 20% tax on
the savings from a person’s income (1) to help the less fortunate (1).
• Khums is donated to two primary causes (1). 50% goes to the poor and 50% goes to
religious causes (1), which is to ensure the descendants of the Prophet are cared for (1).

........................................................................................................................

(c) Explain why giving Zakah is important for Muslims. (6)2019

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

44
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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

• Zakah is the third pillar of Islam and giving in this way is a religious obligation for able
Muslims (A01). It is a sign of a Muslimís submission to Allah, worship of Allah and a way of
reminding Muslims that extra wealth can distract them from their faith (A02).
• Paying Zakah is important as it ensures that the poor are properly cared for (A01). They also
are central to ensuring that a fair and just Islamic society is created for all as it provides
security for the poor, the homeless and orphans (A02).
• Paying Zakah not only benefits those who receive the material benefits that these donations
provide, but also those who give them (A01). By helping those who are most in need Allah
will bless their actions and their wealth will be increased and purified (A02).
• Khums is a tax for Shia and part of it is used for the family of the Prophet.

(c) Explain why the paying of Khums is important for Muslims. (6)(2019)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• It is important to pay Khums because it is commanded in the Qur’an and is therefore a duty
for Muslims (A01). The payment of Khums provides security for the poor, homeless and
orphans, and Allah wants all Muslims to act in this way by showing compassion and
responsibility to the least fortunate (A02).
• Paying Khums is important for some Muslims as it ensures that descendants of the Prophet
are properly cared for (A01). Paying Khums makes sure religious leaders are provided for,
and are independent of state control, and this helps to create a fair and just Islamic society.
(A02).
• Paying Khums not only benefits those who receive the material benefits that these
donations provide, those who give them are also rewarded (A01). By helping those who are
most in need Muslims have their sins forgiven and are part of Allah’s plan to redistribute
wealth from the rich to the poor (A02).

(c) Explain the importance of reciting the Shahadah for Muslims. (6)(2021)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• It is one of the obligations of Islam (A01), and is called the Muslim creed, because it contains
all the teachings that Muslims must believe to be a true Muslim. It states, ‘There is no god
but Allah, and Muhammad is His prophet’. This is the foundation for all Islamic faith (A02). •
• There are no official conversion ceremonies, as in other faiths, so reciting the Shahadah is of
central importance to all Muslims (A01). All a person has to do, to convert to Islam, is to
recite the Shahadah in front of Muslim witnesses and immediately they become a Muslim
(A02).
• The Shahadah should be recited by Muslims many times a day to keep Islam at the centre of
a Muslim’s life (A01). The Shahadah shows that Muslims must reject any aspects of
polytheism, as there is no god but Allah, as proclaimed in the Qur’an and stated in the
Shahadah (A02).

(c) Explain the conditions for the declaration of lesser jihad. (6)(2022)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

45

• The lesser jihad is something that can be undertaken by Muslims after they have strived to
Page

make themselves pure through the greater jihad (A01). They are then in a position to make
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

society pure through the lesser jihad. The lesser jihad is concerned with bringing Allah’s law
and justice to the world, ensuring that Islamic society follows the Word of Allah (A02).
• The lesser jihad can only be fought as a holy war under certain conditions as stated in Surah
2:190-194 (A01) In this Surah Allah does not like transgressors which means war can only be
fought if Islam is attacked. This ensures that Muslims are free to practice their faith as part
of the Umma and are blessed in fighting in defence of Islam (A02).
• Lesser jihad is sometimes necessary to ensure that the will of Allah is in place on earth in
promotion of a just society (A01). The lesser jihad seeks to ensure this occurs and tackles
issues in society in the name of Allah. Issues such as unfair trading, poverty and lack of
education in promotion of justice and equality (A02).

(c) Explain why the Prophet and his successors are good examples of leadership for Muslims today.

(6)(2023)

AO1 (3 marks)/AO2 (3 marks)

• Muhammad (pbuh) was a good leader because he had the missionary vision to to seek the
best in human nature (A01). He led by example, devoting his life to what he believed in and
his influence spread to all his believers. His actions and words, guided by Allah, inspired
people to be the best versions of themselves (A02).
• Abu Bakr was a good leader because of his devotion to the Prophet during his life time, and
the good character he displayed as Caliph (A01). He was one of the great saviours of Islam
and he was a true embodiment of Islam. He is a good example to leaders today because he
ruled with great diligence, wisdom and foresight. He was also a great worshipper who
feared Allah (A02).
• Uthman was an example for Muslim leaders today because of his high character and was
the most modest of all the Companions (A01). He did his own housework and refused any
payment for his role as Caliph. He was generous with his wealth and never hesitated in
giving his money to the Islamic cause (A02).

........................................................................................................................

ۚ ‫ أَيَّا ًٌۭما َّم ْعدُو ٰ َد ٍۢت‬١٨٣ َ‫علَى ٱلَّ ِذينَ ِمن قَ ْب ِل ُك ْم لَعَلَّ ُك ْم تَتَّقُون‬ َ ‫ب‬ َ ِ‫لصيَا ُم َك َما ُكت‬ ِ ‫علَ ْي ُك ُم ٱ‬
َ ‫ب‬ َ ِ‫وا ُكت‬ ۟ ُ‫يَ ٰـٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّ ِذينَ َءا َمن‬
‫ين ۖ فَ َمن‬ ٍۢ ‫س ِك‬ ْ ‫طعَا ُم ِم‬ َ ‫علَى ٱلَّ ِذينَ يُ ِطيقُونَهُۥ فِ ْديَ ٌۭة‬ َ ‫سفَ ٍۢر فَ ِعد ٌَّۭة ِم ْن أَيَّام أ ُ َخ َر ۚ َو‬ َ ‫علَ ٰى‬ َ ‫فَ َمن كَانَ ِمنكُم َّم ِريضًا أَ ْو‬
ِ ُ ‫ِى أ‬ َ ١٨٤ َ‫وا َخي ٌْۭر لَّ ُك ْم ۖ إِن كُنت ُ ْم تَ ْعلَ ُمون‬ ۟ ‫صو ُم‬ ُ َ‫ع َخي ٌۭ ًْرا فَ ُه َو َخي ٌْۭر لَّهُۥ ۚ َوأَن ت‬ َ َ‫ت‬
‫نز َل فِي ِه‬ ٓ ‫شه ُْر َر َمضَانَ ٱلَّذ‬ َ ‫ط َّو‬
‫ص ْمهُ ۖ َو َمن كَانَ َم ِريضًا أَ ْو‬ ُ َ‫شه َْر فَ ْلي‬
َّ ‫ان ۚ فَ َمن ش َِه َد ِمن ُك ُم ٱل‬ ِ َ‫اس َوبَيِنَـ ٍٰۢت ِمنَ ٱ ْل ُهد َٰى َوٱ ْلفُ ْرق‬ ِ َّ‫ٱ ْلقُ ْر َءانُ ُه ٌۭ ًدى ِللن‬
‫علَ ٰى‬
َ ‫ّلل‬ ۟ ۟
َ َّ ‫س َر َو ِلتُك ِْملُوا ٱ ْل ِع َّدةَ َو ِلتُك َِب ُروا ٱ‬ ْ ُ‫س َر َو ََل يُ ِري ُد ِب ُك ُم ٱ ْلع‬ْ ُ‫سفَ ٍۢر فَ ِعد ٌَّۭة ِم ْن أَيَّام أ ُ َخ َر ۗ يُ ِري ُد ٱ َّّللُ ِب ُك ُم ٱ ْلي‬
َ ‫علَ ٰى‬ َ
١٨٥ َ‫شك ُُرون‬ ْ َ‫َما َه َد ٰى ُك ْم َولَعَلَّ ُك ْم ت‬
Translation: O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those
before you that you may become righteous – [Fasting for] a limited number of days. So
whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are
to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] – a ransom [as
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substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers excess – it is better
for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew. The month of Ramadan [is that] in which
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was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and
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criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill
or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does
not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah
for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful. [Qur’an 2: 183–185]

(d) ‘To live a good life every Muslim should fast.’ Assess this statement. You should refer to the
significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to
support your answer. (12)(2019)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Sawm is the Fourth Pillar of Islam and is something that is required of all adult Muslims
during the month of Ramadan. The Qurían commands Muslims and fasting is seen as an act
of obedience (A02). Fasting requires Muslims to demonstrate self-control which is of the
highest importance to Muslims. Surah 2 suggests that by avoiding temptation and fasting
Muslims can journey deeper into their faith and be blessed by Allah for glorifying His name
(A03).
• After the revelation of Surah 2 Muhammad (pbuh), for the first time, fasted during the
month of Ramadan. There are many Sunnah on fasting and following the example of the
Prophet is what Muslims must do (A02). Fasting during Ramadan is way of thanking Allah for
the Qurían. Muslims see fasting during of Ramadan as a way of spiritually recharging, but
also that Allah understands the struggle of the fast and would not ask of a Muslim anything
they could not achieve, as He reveals in Surah 2 (A03).
• Fasting is something that existed before the time of the Prophet, but through the Qurían
and his example he has given clear instruction on the importance of fasting for Muslims
(AO2). However, the Prophet also understood that fasting may be difficult for some and in its
place feeding a poor person would be an acceptable substitute. Similarly, it can be difficult
for Muslims to fast in countries in the northern hemisphere as the long hours may damage
their health and affect their work performance (A03).

َّ‫ إِن‬١٨ ‫يز ٱ ْل َح ِكي ُم‬ ُ ‫س ِط ۚ َ َٓل إِلَ ٰـهَ إِ ََّل ُه َو ٱ ْلعَ ِز‬ ۟ ُ‫ش َِه َد ٱ َّّللُ أَنَّهُۥ َ َٓل إِلَ ٰـهَ إِ ََّل ُه َو َوٱ ْل َملَ ٰـٓئِكَةُ َوأ ُ ۟ول‬
ْ ‫وا ٱ ْل ِع ْل ِم قَآئِ ٍۢ ًما بِٱ ْل ِق‬
‫ٰب إِ ََّل ِم ٍۢن بَ ْع ِد َما َجا ٓ َء ُه ُم ٱ ْل ِع ْل ُم بَ ْغ ٍۢيًا بَ ْينَ ُه ْم ۗ َو َمن يَ ْكفُ ْر‬ َ ‫وا ٱ ْل ِكتَـ‬ ۟ ُ ‫ف ٱلَّ ِذينَ أُوت‬ َ َ‫سلَ ٰـ ُم ۗ َو َما ٱ ْختَل‬ ْ ‫ّلل ٱ ْ ِْل‬
ِ َّ ‫ٱ ِلدينَ ِعن َد ٱ‬
١٩ ‫ب‬ ِ ‫سا‬َ ‫س ِري ُع ٱ ْل ِح‬ َ ‫ّلل‬ َ َّ ‫ّلل فَ ِإنَّ ٱ‬ ِ َّ ‫ت ٱ‬ ِ ‫ِبـَٔايَ ٰـ‬
Allah witnesses that there is no deity except Him, and [so do] the angels and those of knowledge –
[that He is] maintaining [creation] in justice. There is no deity except Him, the Exalted in Might, the
Wise. Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. And those who were given the Scripture did
not differ except after knowledge had come to them – out of jealous animosity between themselves.
And whoever disbelieves in the verses of Allah, then indeed, Allah is swift in [taking] account. [Qur’an
3: 18–19]

(d) ‘The Shahadah contains all the important beliefs of Islam.’ Assess this statement. You should
refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views
to support your answer. (12)(2020)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

47

• Shahadah contains all the important beliefs in Islam, because it sums up the two key Islamic
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beliefs of the oneness of Allah and the Prophethood of Muhammad (pbuh). From these
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

come all other Islamic beliefs (A02). If you believe in the oneness of Allah and His messenger
Muhammad (pbuh), then you accept the Qur’an as the Word of Allah, and the Sunnah of the
Prophet. Islam is the only religion that is recognised by Allah as fulfilling his will as described
in Surah 3 (AO3).
• In Islam there are no ‘Rites of Passage’ ceremonies such as baptism or Bar Mitzvah to make
a person a Muslim. This is where the Shahadah is of crucial importance. By reciting the
Shahadah in front of Muslim witnesses a person becomes a Muslim (A02). This is fulfilling
the will of Allah and the intention of the Prophet to bring the message of Islam to all
peoples, and the understanding that there is no deity but Allah, and He alone brings justice
to creation as is taught in Surah 3 (A03).
• Although Shahadah is a very important belief in Islam, it is only one of the beliefs of Islam,
which are all of importance. This is in addition to the importance of belief in the Sunnah,
which makes the teaching of the Qur’an fully understood to humans (A02). Because
Muhammad (pbuh) is the final prophet, Muslims should consider the Qur’an, supported by
the Sunnah, to be the perfect revelation of Allah. Through the belief in the Qur’an and the
Prophet all Muslims are given clear guidance on how to enter paradise(A03).

‫ َولَ ْو‬٥٨ َ‫طون‬ ُ ‫س َخ‬ْ َ‫ط ْو ۟ا ِم ْن َها ٓ إِذَا ُه ْم ي‬ ۟ ‫وا ِم ْنهَا َرض‬
َ ‫ُوا َوإِن َّل ْم يُ ْع‬ ۟ ‫ط‬ُ ‫ت فَ ِإ ْن أ ُ ْع‬
ِ ‫ص َدقَ ٰـ‬َّ ‫َو ِم ْن ُهم َّمن يَ ْل ِم ُزكَ فِى ٱل‬
ِ َّ ‫سولُهُۥٓ ِإنَّا ٓ ِإلَى ٱ‬
‫ّلل‬ ُ ‫ض ِل ِهۦ َو َر‬ ْ َ‫سيُ ْؤتِينَا ٱ َّّللُ ِمن ف‬ َ ُ‫سبُنَا ٱ َّّلل‬ ۟
ْ ‫سولُهُۥ َوقَالُوا َح‬ ۟ ‫أَنَّ ُه ْم َرض‬
ُ ‫ُوا َما ٓ َءاتَ ٰى ُه ُم ٱ َّّللُ َو َر‬
‫ب‬ِ ‫علَ ْيهَا َوٱ ْل ُم َؤلَّفَ ِة قُلُوبُ ُه ْم َوفِى ٱ ِلرقَا‬ َ َ‫ين َوٱ ْلعَـ ِٰم ِلين‬ ِ ‫س ٰـ ِك‬ َّ ‫ ۞ إِنَّ َما ٱل‬٥٩ َ‫ٰ َر ِغبُون‬
َ ‫ص َدقَـٰتُ ِل ْلفُقَ َرا ِٓء َوٱ ْل َم‬
٦٠ ‫ع ِليم َح ِك ٌۭيم‬ ِ َّ ‫سبِي ِل ۖ فَ ِريض ٌَۭةً ِمنَ ٱ‬
َ ُ‫ّلل ۗ َوٱ َّّلل‬ َّ ‫ّلل َوٱب ِْن ٱل‬ ِ َّ ‫سبِي ِل ٱ‬َ ‫َوٱ ْلغَـ ِٰر ِمينَ َوفِى‬
And among them are some who criticize you concerning the [distribution of] charities. If they are
given from them, they approve; but if they are not given from them, at once they become angry. If
only they had been satisfied with what Allah and His Messenger gave them and said, “Sufficient for
us is Allah; Allah will give us of His bounty, and [so will] His Messenger; indeed, we are desirous
toward Allah,” [it would have been better for them]. Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for
the needy and for those employed to collect [Zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and
for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded]
traveller – an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise. [Qur’an 9: 58–60]

(d) ‘Supporting those in need around the world is the most important charitable work for Muslims
today.’ Assess this statement. You should refer to the significance of this passage from the Qur’an
provided, using your own or others’ views to support your answer. (12)(2022)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Muslims would agree with this as giving Zakah is an obligation in Islam. In Surah 9 it states it
is an obligation imposed by Allah to help those in need (A02). By paying Zakah Muslims are
submitting to Allah’s will and helping their fellow Muslim as Allah commanded. It also
reminds Muslims that wealth can be evil if misused and paying Zakah purifies the wealth
that they keep. They do this by trying to lift people out of poverty and give them their
dignity. There can be no more important task than this (A03).
• Paying Khums is a way of supporting those in poverty and who are in need of this special
assistance. Khums requires that a fifth of a person’s wealth is given to Allah and 50% of this
48

is given to the religious to support their work (A02). The paying of Khums is made to ensure
that society looks after the most vulnerable such as orphans, the poor and the homeless.
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Just as Zakah is commanded by Allah, many believe that Khums is also commanded. It has
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the same intention which is to seek an end to global injustice. As it states in Surah 9 ‘It is an
obligation by Allah. And Allah is knowing and wise’ (AO3).
• Although supporting those in need is very important to Muslims, for by doing so it will
enable more people to focus on their religious life, some Muslims would say it is not the
most important task for Muslims today. Prayer life is more important (A02). By improving
their prayer life Allah will bless a Muslim for their reliance on Him. For this reliance they will
receive special blessings. To live in such a way and rely on Allah has to be the most
important objective for all Muslims as this is submission to His will (A03).

‫َّللا ـ‬
ِ َّ ‫سو َل‬ َّ ‫ب فَبَ َدأَ بِال‬
ُ ‫ إِنَّ َر‬:َ‫صًلَ ِة قَ ْب َل ا ْل ُخ ْطبَ ِة فَقَال‬ ِ ‫طا‬ َّ ‫ع َم َر ب ِْن ا ْل َخ‬ ُ ‫ع َْن أَبِي‬
ُ ‫ قَا َل ش َِهدْتُ ا ْل ِعي َد َم َع‬،‫عبَيْد‬
‫ فَيَ ْو ُم‬،‫ أَ َّما يَ ْو ُم ا ْل ِف ْط ِر‬.‫ضحَى‬
ْ َ ‫ يَ ْو ِم ا ْل ِف ْط ِر َويَ ْو ِم اْل‬،‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم ـ نَهَى ع َْن ِصيَ ِام َهذَي ِْن ا ْليَ ْو َمي ِْن‬
ُ ُ‫ضحَى تَأ ْ ُكلُونَ فِي ِه ِم ْن لَحْ ِم ن‬
. ‫س ِك ُك ْم‬ ْ َ ‫ َويَ ْو ُم اْل‬.‫ام ُك ْم‬ ِ َ‫فِ ْط ِر ُك ْم ِم ْن ِصي‬
Abu ‘Ubaid said: “I was present for ‘Eid with ‘Umar bin Khattab. He started with the prayer before the
sermon, and said: ‘The Messenger of Allah forbade fasting on these two days, the Day of Fitr and the
Day of Adha. As for the Day of Fitr, it is the day when you break your fast, and on the Day of Adha
you eat the meat of your sacrifices.’’ (Hadith)

(d) ‘Religious festivals are an essential part of Islam.’ Assess this statement. You should refer to the
significance of this passage from the Hadith provided, using your own or others’ views to support
your answer.

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Many Muslims would agree with this statement as there are clear instructions in Islamic holy
texts regarding the importance of festivals. In the Hadith the significance of what occurs is
directly related to the spiritual journey of the Muslim (A02). Festivals in Islam are seen as a
way of deepening the faith of all Muslims. They remind Muslims of key aspects of their faith
that resonate with each worshipper. Such as remembering the importance of obedience to
Allah as Ibrahim was told to sacrifice Ismail on the festival of Eid-ul-Adha (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree because the Hadith make clear reference to the festivals of Eid-
ul-Adha and Eid-ul-Fitr. These are two important festivals that unite the Umma in worship as
local and global community (A02). Eid-ul-Fitr is known as the festival of the breaking of the
fast, which occurs at the end of Ramadan. Muslims are reminded that they have completed
the great fast and will gain many benefits from doing so. Theirs sins have been forgiven by
Allah and they have become closer to Allah (A03).
• Although many Muslims would agree that festivals are essential in Islam, some Muslims
would disagree and point to the fact that Islam only has two key festivals as proof that this
being true. (A02) They would also state that the festivals are only important as part of the
pilgrimage of Hajj. This means any real importance for festivals is only as part of the fifth
pillar of Islam. They are only part of a bigger celebration and really have no individual
significance outside the Hajj (A03).

‫وا ِم ْن‬ ۟ ُ‫ق َو ََل ِجدَا َل فِى ٱ ْلحَج ۗ َو َما تَ ْفعَل‬ َ ‫سو‬ ُ ُ‫ث َو ََل ف‬ َ َ‫يهنَّ ٱ ْل َح َّج فَ ًَل َرف‬
ِ ِ‫ٰت ۚ فَ َمن فَ َرضَ ف‬ ْ َ‫ٱ ْل َح ُّج أ‬
ٌۭ ‫ش ُه ٌۭر َّم ْعلُو َمـ‬
ِ
‫علَ ْي ُك ْم ُجنَاح أَن‬ َ ‫ْس‬ َ ‫ لَي‬١٩٧ ‫ب‬ ِ ‫ون يَ ٰـٓأ ُ ۟و ِلى ٱ ْْل َ ْلبَ ٰـ‬ َّ ‫ُوا فَ ِإنَّ َخي َْر ٱ‬
ِ ُ‫لزا ِد ٱلت َّ ْق َو ٰى ۚ َوٱتَّق‬ ۟ ‫َخي ٍْۢر يَ ْعلَ ْمهُ ٱ َّّللُ ۗ َوتَ َز َّود‬
‫شعَ ِر ٱ ْلح ََر ِام ۖ َوٱ ْذك ُُروهُ َك َما َه َد ٰى ُك ْم‬ ْ ‫ّلل ِعن َد ٱ ْل َم‬ ۟ ‫ضتُم ِم ْن ع ََرفَـ ٍٰۢت فَٱ ْذك ُُر‬
َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬ ْ َ‫ض ٌۭ ًًل ِمن َّر ِب ُك ْم ۚ فَ ِإذَآ أَف‬ ْ َ‫وا ف‬ ۟ ُ‫تَ ْبتَغ‬
49

‫ور‬ ٌۭ ُ‫غف‬ َ ‫ّلل‬َ َّ ‫ّلل ۚ إِنَّ ٱ‬

َ َّ ‫وا ٱ‬۟ ‫ستَ ْغ ِف ُر‬
ْ ‫اس َوٱ‬ ُ َّ‫ْث أَفَاضَ ٱلن‬ ُ ‫ُوا ِم ْن َحي‬ ۟ ‫ ث ُ َّم أَفِيض‬١٩٨ َ‫ضا ِٓلين‬ َّ ‫َوإِن كُنتُم ِمن قَ ْب ِل ِهۦ لَ ِمنَ ٱل‬
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١٩٩ ‫َّر ِح ٌۭيم‬

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE

Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by
entering the state of ihram], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no
disputing during Hajj. And whatever good you do – Allah knows it. And take provisions, but indeed,
the best provision is fear of Allah. And fear Me, O you of understanding. There is no blame upon you
for seeking bounty from your Lord [during Hajj]. But when you depart from 'Arafat, remember Allah
at al-Mash'ar al-Haram. And remember Him, as He has guided you, for indeed, you were before that
among those astray. Then depart from the place from where [all] the people depart and ask
forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. [Surah 2:197–199]

(d) Assess the view that Hajj must be performed by all Muslims. You should refer to the
significance of this passage from the Qur’an provided, using your own or others’ views to support
your answer. (12)(2023)

AO2 (6 marks)/AO3 (6 marks)

• Many muslims would agree as Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and all Muslims should try and
go on Hajj as, if they do, they receive great bounty from Allah as stated in Surah 2 (A02).
Muslims believe that they are following in the footsteps of Muhammad (pbuh) by
performing Hajj. They believe that by following the example of the Prophet they will receive
special blessings from Allah. Muslims believe that by performing Hajj they are showing their
devotion to Allah because of the effort it takes to do so (A03).
• Many Muslims would agree by performing Hajj Muslims have taken part in the holiest
event in the Muslim calendar, and come as close to Allah as is possible in this world during
the time spent on Hajj (AO2). Muslims spend time with other believers from all over the
world, which reminds them that they are all part of the Ummah, sharing Allah’s blessings
during Hajj. Even though they all come from different cultures, sometimes even speaking
different languages, when on Hajj they unite in the same actions and prayers. (AO3).
• Although Hajj is very important in the lives of all Muslims, some Muslims would say that,
although attending Hajj is a great achievement, for some Muslims attending Hajj is
unaffordable and so cannot be achieved (A02). Hajj has great benefits, but is not something
that all Muslims are able to do. Praying five times a day can provide greater strength to a
Muslim than Hajj. It is also better to use one’s money to help those in poverty than paying
for a trip to go on Hajj, as it relieves suffering (A03).

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