Islamiyat · Oct / Nov 2024 · Paper 11 · Question 3

and opposed him.

Use the AO1 Levels of Response.

Candidates should include some of the following points. All other relevant points must be credited.

After the Prophet (pbuh) received revelation, he received support from some of his family members and opposition from others.

His wife Khadija was his first and main support, consoling him, offering him advice and believing in him. His children also supported him by becoming Muslim, even though this meant that they were divorced by their husbands (Ruqayya and Umm Kulthum). Fatima helped clean filth off the Prophet’s back which the Quraysh had put on him when he was praying.

His uncle, Abu Talib, who had raised him, asked him about the new religion and said he would support the Prophet (pbuh) as much as he could. It was because of Abu Talib’s support that the Prophet (pbuh) escaped more severe persecution and when the Prophet (pbuh) was boycotted, they went to live in a valley owned by Abu Talib.

Hamza supported and protected him. ‘Ali and Ja’far, the Prophet’s cousins, also supported him by becoming Muslim.

Some of his family members opposed the Prophet (pbuh), most notably Abu Lahab. He was the Prophet’s paternal uncle and, on the occasion, when the Prophet (pbuh) publicly proclaimed the message of Islam on Mount Safa, Abu Lahab said, ‘Destruction to you! Is it for this you have gathered us?’ After this Sura Lahab was revealed.

When Abu Talib died, Abu Lahab became the head of the clan of Hashim, and he withdrew the protection on the Prophet (pbuh).

Utba and Utayba were the sons of Abu Lahab married to the daughters of the Prophet (pbuh). They were told to divorce their wives by Abu Lahab. Abu Lahab’s wife used to throw thorns in the path of the Prophet (pbuh) to hurt him.

When the Quraysh felt that they were losing control of the increasing number of Muslims Abu Lahab joined them in the imposition of a social and economic boycott on Banu Hashim and exiled them to Shib-i-Abi Talib.

The Prophet (pbuh) remained steadfast in the face of all difficulties. What can Muslims learn from his example and put into practice? Use the AO2 Levels of Response.

Candidates can give other examples and all relevant answers should be credited.

The Prophet (pbuh) faced a lot of opposition in Makka, and his example helps Muslims to understand that even in the face of adversity and hardship it is better to try and remain calm and not get angry.

The Prophet (pbuh) had strong reliance on God and so Muslims can learn that they too should put their trust in God and allow themselves to understand that He will eventually help them.

The Prophet (pbuh) was also surrounded by supportive family members so staying calm is easier when you have supportive friends or family that you can talk to and who will help you when in need.