Islamiyat · May / June 2016 · Paper 21 · Question 1

describe their teachings about what Muslims believe; [4]

(i)

The main teaching of this hadith is that Muslims must never allow evil to take place in any circumstance and if they see it happening they must do all that is in their power to stop it. If they are unable to do so for whatever reasons, they must speak out against it but never condone it and always deem it as an injustice. Some candidates may well highlight in their answer that once a person declares they are a Muslim they have to verify their faith through actions.

(ii)

The important teaching of this hadith is that Muslims must sincerely follow the teachings of Islam. Answers could be developed by candidates giving an insight into the elements of the hadith by saying that Muslims need to put their belief into action by sincerely following the five Pillars of Islam whilst being sensitive to the needs of other believers, and that they need to be loyal members of their community by trying to better the lot of those around them.

(iii)

This hadith is related to individual conduct and draws attention to how true believers resist the temptations of this world and endeavour to follow the righteous path, even if it is not the easy one. Reference to this world being an unbeliever’s paradise could be explained by the candidates by perhaps saying that those who do not believe in the one God or the Day of Judgment live for the present without fear of accountability, so may not live a life prescribed by God.

(iv)

Social responsibility is the core teaching of this hadith. Muslims should care for the needs of others around them and everyday acts of kindness carry the reward of charity. Good answers will highlight the fact that charity does not only refer to giving financial aid to a needy person, but concern for fellow beings at all times is also deemed as charity.

explain how Muslims can put these teachings into action. [4] Hadith 6

(i)

Muslims must resist/fight evil however they can, with their hands, wealth, voice or thoughts. The fight against evil involves many methods and must never cease, and a Muslim must use every available just means to stop it. Examples could be given to develop the candidate’s response.

(ii)

Here candidates could say that by following the teachings of Islam, Muslims can put into practice the teachings of this hadith. Answers could state that a good Muslim not only obeys the commands of the Qur’an and the Prophet but also works to maintain the good of the community and society at large. Examples of how this could be done could well be given to support the answer.

(iii)

By following the path prescribed by God and His Prophet (pbuh) and remembering one’s accountability before God and thus walking on the path of righteousness is one way of putting the teaching of this hadith into action. Candidates could give examples of resisting temptations from the Prophet’s life, e.g. when the Makkans offered him wealth and the hand of the fairest maiden in return for not preaching Islam, he refused. Examples from their own lives in response to this answer could also be given. All valid answers should be credited.

(iv)

In response to this part of the question, a range of answers could be given to show how the teachings of this hadith could be put into action. From enquiring after someone’s health, to speaking a word of kindness to someone, to giving good and honest advice when one’s opinion is sought, etc.