Q1. [compulsory] : Major themes of the Qur’an Three groups of passages are set for close study.

These relate to the themes of: God in himself God’s relationship with the created world God’s
Messengers. Candidates should explore: the major theme or themes of the Qur’an that appear in
each passage, and • the way each passage presents its theme(s) in its own particular
way.Candidates should study the passages in a recognised English translation, but with reference
to the original Arabic text. In the examination passages will be set in both Arabic and English.
Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of the original as well as the translation.
Appendix 1 lists the passages for examination in 2013. These are reviewed each year and may
change.
1 Choose any two of the following passages from the Qur’an, and: (a) briefly describe the main
theme(s) in each passage. [4] (b) briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslims
life today. [4]
Passage: 1

(i) Allah. There is no god but He, the living, the self-subsisting, eternal. No slumber can
seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can
intercede in His presence except as He permits? He knows what is before or after or
behind them. Nor shall they compass any of His knowledge except as He wills. His
Throne extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding
and preserving them for He is the Most High, the Supreme. (Sura 2. 255)
(a)
L1 for a basic description of him as e.g. Creator or Lord
L2 for a reference to tawhid, and what this means
L3 for an elaboration of this, referring to his oneness and the distinction between
him and created beings
L4 for references to the omnipotence and omniscience of God
(b) L1 for references to God as unsleeping
L2 for references to his being seated on the throne
L3 for the symbolism of the throne, mentions of similarities with the shahada
(kalima)
 L4 for comparisons and contrasts with and quotations from other Qur’an
passages on tawhid

Part –a
Answer 1

This passage tells us about Allah. Muslims believe he is Creator of the whole world, and
everything was made by him.

Level: 1
This is a very brief and uninformative description of a richly detailed passage. The candidate
says nothing about the way in which it portrays the distinctiveness and transcendence of God.

Answer 2

The main theme that is given here is tawhid. Muslims believe that Allah is one, and it is a great
sin to say there is another God, or that Allah has a son. And he is not the son of any other being.
His power is greater than any other power.

Level: 2

This answer identifies the theme of divine unity in a way that shows the candidate understands it.
The candidate also gives some indication of knowing about the distinctiveness of God and of his
incomparability. There is also a trace of a reference to Sura 112, though this is too faint to credit.

Answer 3

This aya, which is called the verse of the throne, is about the oneness of Allah, or tawhid. The
holy Qur’an tells us that Allah is one, and that he does not have any partners, or any relation such
as a wife or a son. In this passage we are told that Allah is different from other beings because he
does not need sleep, and he knows things that creatures do not know. His throne means that he
controls the whole world.

Level: 3

There is some relevant detail here which shows clearly the candidate has detected the main
theme of the verse and can express this by showing God’s uniqueness, in that he has no
relationship with another being, and also his distinctiveness, in that he is totally unlike other
beings in significant ways.

Answer 4
The main theme of this passage, which we know as the verse of the Throne, is the oneness of
Allah, or tawhid. This means that God is a being who is unlike other beings because he knows
everything and can do everything, and he does not have any relations such as children or parents.
Allah makes this clear in Sura al-Ikhlas. The mention of his throne is a way of showing how
great his power is, and also his knowledge of everything that happens.

Level: 4

This answer shows the candidate has successfully identified the theme in the passage and can
express it concisely yet fully, showing knowledge of the concepts of omnipotence and
omniscience (if not of the terms themselves). He is also able to link the passage with comparable
passages elsewhere in the Qur’an, and demonstrates some ability to explain how the symbolism
in the passage expresses the central theme.

Part-b

Answer 1

Allah does not sleep, and he knows everything that happens in this world. He guards the world
and his throne is over the world.

Level: 1

There is a basic statement here about the way in which the passage depicts the uniqueness of
God. But the language is largely from the passage itself, and does not show much independent
discernment.

Answer 2

This passage tells us that Allah never sleeps, and has a throne which means he is in control over
all the whole world, this world and the world to come. This is why it is called Ayat alkursi,
which is the verse of the throne.

Level: 2

There are indications in this answer that the candidate knows the reference to the throne signifies
the oneness and power of God. But the answer does not give enough detail to permit further
judgement on this.

Answer 3

This passage tells how Allah does not need to sleep, unlike human beings. And it also mentions
his throne, which tells of his greatness. He is powerful over the whole world, and he rules it from
his throne. The passage at the beginning mentions the belief in Allah of Muslims that there is no
other god but Allah. This is the first Pillar of Islam.

Level: 3

This answer leaves little doubt that the candidate sees the throne as central to the way in which
this verse depicts the oneness and power of God. It also adds the detail of his not needing sleep,
another point that indicates his uniqueness in this passage particularly. The comparison with the
shahada shows the candidate is aware of similarities with other passages, and presumably
differences from them.

Answer 4

This passage is one of the most important for telling us about tawhid. We humans all need sleep,
but here the difference between God and us is made clear by his not needing to sleep. Also, he
knows everything about us, all that is around us. Many verses in the Qur’an mention Allah’s
knowledge, but this verse tells how this knowledge is all around us. The most important thing
about Allah here is his throne. This tells us he is a great king, ruling over the whole world. The
Qur’an tells about the throne of Allah in some other places as well. There
are many things in this passage that say about the difference between Allah and humans.

Level: 4

There is some padding in this answer, but it nevertheless makes key points about the significant
features of the passage. It also shows awareness that the central feature of the throne is not
unique to this passage, indicating wider study by the candidate. Altogether, there is maturity in
the candidate’s approach to this answer.

PASSAGE : 2

(ii) 1. In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful. 2. Praise be to God,
the cherisher and sustainer of the worlds; 3. Most gracious, most merciful;
4. Master of the day of judgment. 5. You we worship, and your aid we
seek. 6. Show us the straight way, 7. The way of those to whom you
have given your grace, not those who earn your anger, nor those who go
astray. (Sura 1)

L1 for a reference to God as Master of all

L2 for references to him as alone worthy of praise

L3 for references to him as Guide to the moral life
L4 for references to warnings about those who abandon the way of God
L1 for references to God as Master of the Day of Judgement

L2 for references to Him as the One who can be depended upon

L3 for references to Him as Guide on the Straight way
L4 for comparisons and contrasts with other Qur’an passages on God as refuge,
and on the consequences of not following his way

Answer 1
This passage is about Allah the gracious and merciful. The Qur’an tells us that he is the
Master of this whole world.

Level: 1
The answer gives a basic mention of the main theme of the passage, but tends to reproduce the
wording in the passage without independently showing knowledge of the meaning of the phrases
that are used.

Answer 2
This tells us about Allah, who is alone, and is Lord of the whole world. Only him should we
praise because he is the one who will judge us. We must follow the path he has given us when he
sent the holy Prophet and the Qur’an.

Level 2
This answer easily fulfils the criteria for L2 by identifying God as the main theme of the
passage, and saying a few things about his uniqueness and majesty. In its reference to the Qur’an
and example of the Prophet as an explanation of how ‘the path’ is followed, it verges on L3. But
it does not quite make it because it does not say explicitly how they are related.

Answer 3
This passage, the first Sura of the Holy Qur’an, tells us about Allah, who is Lord of everything in
this world and the world to come. He gives us guidance, and if we follow this we will have
Allah’s blessing and gracefulness. Allah loves what he has made and is kind and compassionate
to it.

Level: 3
This gives a full and confident account of the main theme of the passage, offering detail
without anything irrelevant. It shows clear understanding of what the passage teaches about
God’s relationship with the created order.

Answer 4
This is the first Sura of the Holy Qur’an. It tells us about the most important theme of the
Qur’an, which is tawhid, the belief that Allah is one. It tells us that Allah is our Lord and the
Lord of everything else that exists, even the things we cannot see or know about. It also tells us
that he will help us if we ask. He will lead us on the path of his obedience, which he tells us
about in the holy Qur’an and in the Sunna of the holy Prophet. But he does not force us, and if
we follow our own way we may go astray. Only he can help us because he has made us.

Level: 4
It is clear that this candidate understands the passage so well that she has been able to
identify its main theme without hesitation. She gives a full account of the teachings in it about
the relationship between God and creation, and is able to explain easily how God offers a way of
living. She also gives hints of detecting references to human responsibility for straying from
God. This is a mature answer that shows a mature and thoughtful mind.

When answering part (b) candidates are expected to show how each passage they select presents
the themes they have already identified in part (a) in a particularly distinctive way. As with part
(a), in marking part (b) it is important for examiners to read the answers to both passages the
candidate has chosen together, even if they do not appear consecutively in the answer booklet.
This will make it easier to gain an impression of the candidate’s performance in this part as a
whole, and to decide upon the overall level of response.

Part b

Answer 1
This sura is the first sura of the holy Qur’an. It tells us we must follow the way of Allah. He is
Lord of the worlds, and we must pray to him.

Level: 1
There is no indication here that the candidate has seen anything distinctive in the passage about
the being of God or about his relationship with the world. Much of what she writes uses the
wording of the translation, and she barely succeeds in reaching L1, doing so only by giving some
hint that the sirat al-mustaqim is significant.

Answer 2
This sura tells us about Allah, who is Lord of the worlds, and Master of the Day of
Judgement.He can help us in our life if we pray to him. He has given us guidance in the holy
Prophet and the Qur’an.

Level: 2
Although this is a list largely in the language of the translation, the candidate has shown he can
identify the distinctive points in the passage. He has not gone further than this, however, since he
has not given any sign of recognizing the significance of these distinctive points.

Answer 3
This sura tells us that Allah is Lord of all the worlds. It shows us that his power and
knowledge are not only for us but for everything he has created, this world and the next world,
the world of jinn and of men. It says that Allah has given men a path. We must follow this path if
we want to please Allah. If we do not we will be punished.

Level 3
This answer has picked out two key elements of the passage that show the power of God and his
relationship with the creation. The candidate has gone some way in showing he knows their
importance, though his language is rather close to the language of the translation. He has just
managed to attain L3 by making the identifications he has.

Answer 4
The sirat al-mustaqim is the path which Allah asks us to follow. This tells us he wants us to obey
him and love him by doing his will. It shows us he has created us and shows us mercy and
compassion. We can follow the path of Allah by following the example of the holy Prophet.
Another important thing that Allah tells us in this sura is that we can turn to him for help. Allah
also tells us that we can seek refuge in him in Sura 114. He is the Lord of the worlds. This means
he is above everything he has created, even things humans do not know about.

Level 4
There is a full explanation here of the straight path, and some suggestion that the candidate
knows what it means in terms of a Muslim’s daily life. Her comments on how a Muslim actually
follows the path in practice indicate thorough understanding of this important element of the
sura. The comparison with Sura 114 is also illuminating (even though this appears as passage
(iii) in this question), and gives a strong suggestion that she knows what is significant about the
portrayal of God here. She has identified the main distinctive elements of the passage, though
she could have gone a little further in explaining why they are distinctive.

PASSAGE: 3
(iii) 1. Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind, 2. The King of mankind, 3. The God of
Mankind, 4. From the mischief of the whisperer who withdraws, 5. Who whispers into the hearts
of mankind, 6. Among jinns and among mankind. (Sura 114)

(a) L1 for a reference to God as Refuge, or to the wickedness of those who tempt
others
L2 for references to both of these
L3 for references to God as safe refuge because he is King of all
L4 for references to the difficulties of life because believers are lured away from
Faith

(b) L1 for a reference to the power of God

L2 for references to his power over wicked forces
L3 for discussion of the purpose of the repetition of God’s titles
L4 for comparison with other passages, esp. Sura 113

(a) What are the main teachings? (O/N/2010)

Sura 5.110

This passage talks about God’s relationship with his messengers, in this case the prophet Jesus.
Candidates could talk about God’s power and authority over all things, that it is He who allows
all things to happen. He gives his prophets miracles and powers as a reflection of His power, but
also to help them. Just as He helps them in their guidance for people, He also protects them from
harm.
Sura 6.75-79

This passage is about God showing His signs to mankind to strengthen their belief and so they
know about His Oneness, as well as helping his prophets when they are in need.
Candidates could mention that the signs of the sun and the moon and the star were shown to
Abraham to clear his confusion about his ancestor’s belief in idols. These verses tell Muslims to
worship god alone.
Sura 93

This sura was revealed as a consolation to the Prophet Muhammad that God has not left
Him, as the disbelievers claimed. Rather God shows in this sura how he helped the Prophet, as
He helps all his prophets. Candidates could mention that these verses give reassurance that God
is always there to help in need. The Prophet has been told to help those in need and be grateful to
God, and mankind should follow this example.
(b)What do these teachings mean?

Sura 5.110

These teachings show the relationship between God and His prophet Jesus. In this passage God
communicates with his prophet. They show mankind the different kind of miracles God is able to
perform, which show His power and majesty, but also how He helps His creation in different
ways.
Sura 6.75-79

These teachings tell man to have belief in God alone and not ascribe partners to Him. It
shows how God communicated with his prophet through His creation, and that mankind
should therefore also look for God’s signs in creation to strengthen belief. Better Answers may
give references to other passages.
Sura 93

These teachings tell Muslims about blessings that God gave to the Prophet Muhammad.
Candidates could talk about how the Prophet should not forget this and should tell people about
the blessings that have been bestowed upon him. Just as the Prophet did, man should also look to
his life to see his blessings and should be grateful for them and tell people about them, because
God always helps people in difficulty.

Question 1 EXAMINERS REPORT (O/N/2010)

For part (a) the main themes of the passages should be brought out, e.g. God’s power over all
things, or His mercy and forgiveness. In part (b), candidates should talk about particular ideas or
words from the passage in question that bring out or represent these themes, e.g. in sura 1 God
giving these miracles to Jesus shows His power.

(a) For part (a) good answers would have been able to pick out key themes from two passages.
For passage 1, good answers talked about God’s power to do everything and that He gave the
prophets various miracles to help them. There were a large number of candidates who only gave
a description of the miracles given to Jesus, and there was a lot of paraphrasing of the translation
already given.

For passage 2, good answers talked about God being one by showing the Prophet Abraham His
signs in the sun and the moon. They mentioned that Abraham was looking for His Lord and
realised that the things in creation were not to be worshipped. Candidates who chose this passage
tended to answer it well.

For passage 3, again good answers recognised that God helps His prophets when they are in
need. They were also able to mention that God gave the Prophet Muhammad reassurance
through this revelation. There were some candidates who, in part (a), confused this passage with
sura Kauthar and they seemed to be describing that sura instead of the one on the paper. There
was also a lot of paraphrasing in many of the answers.
Most candidates gave general answers to the two passages they had chosen, and a few managed
to bring out a variety of themes which gained higher marks.

(b) Here, good answers would have been able to say how these themes are presented specifically
in these suras. For passage 1, good answers talked about the relationship between God and how
He helps His prophets. In this passage Jesus is being talked about, and some candidates
mentioned that the phrase “by my leave” shows that God is the one who has the power to give
these miracles to the Prophets, and that the miracles given were to help Jesus in His mission.
Some candidates tried to link this passage with other passages from the Qur’an, and whilst some
of them gave relevant quotations and said why these others passages were relevant, there were
more candidates who gave a reference number for another sura without saying what it was or
giving any explanation of it. Many candidates simply repeated what they had written in part (a).

For passage 2, good answers talked about how God showed Abraham His signs through the sun
and moon, which He created. The fact that, in this sura, these created things kept setting allowed
Abraham to strengthen His belief in God being one and not ascribing partners to Him. Excellent
answers said that this allows Muslims to see how God is the only one to be worshipped and they
gave references to other relevant suras.

For passage 3, good answers talked about God mentioning the things that He gave to the Prophet
Muhammad to show how He had helped him, e.g. He made him independent by marrying him to
Khadija. Excellent answers said that because of God’s help the Prophet is told to treat people
well, which is something Muslims should follow in their daily lives and they will also be helped.
Again the better answers referenced related suras which also showed how God had helped the
Prophet. Some candidates were able to answer this part of the question really well, with
thoughtful and insightful answers. It is important not to repeat what is written in part (a), or write
about other suras
without showing how they are linked.

(a) What are the main teachings? (O/N/09)

(i) Sura 2.30-37
Good answers for this passage will be able to talk about God as Creator and his
relationship to his prophets. Answers may talk about God creating Adam, as well as
everything else (angels, etc.), and the high position he granted him. They could also
mention that God gives knowledge to who he wants and he gives the special status of
prophethood to who he wishes. Also, even when Satan misled Adam, God did not leave
him or allow any obstacle to prevent him from making Adam his representative on earth.

(ii) Sura 5.110

Good answers of this passage will be able to talk about God and his power, and his
relationship with Jesus. Answers may talk about the miracles God gave to Jesus as a
sign of His power, and to protect his prophet. God showed his support for Jesus in many
ways as a demonstration that Jesus was his prophet.

(iii) Sura 108

Good answers for this passage will talk about God’s mercy/generosity and his
relationship with the prophet Muhammad. Answers may talk about how God has granted
the prophet success, and because of this his servants (the prophets) should continue to
show loyalty to God even in times of difficulty. God remains near to his prophets. They
can also talk about how God has promised to protect them, just as He protected the
prophet from his enemies.

(b) What do these teachings mean?

(i) Sura 2.30-37

Answers could talk about how Adam was the first prophet of God, who was made his
representative on earth. They could also mention how God showed Adam’s importance;
by making the angels bow to him, and forgiving him when he disobeyed. Adam was
chosen by God as his prophet and representative, and God maintained the relationship
despite obstacles which shows an understanding of how God’s will always triumphs.

(ii) Sura 5.110

Answers could give an insight into the relationship between God and his prophet, and
the ways in which Jesus’ prophethood was shown. The creation of a bird from clay and
raising the dead were clear signs that God had chosen Jesus. God supported him by
giving him distinctive miracles and protected him from his opponents.

(iii) Sura 108

Answers could give an insight into the relationship between God and the prophet. Good
answers will suggest how God gave a promise to the prophet in times of difficulty. He
gave the Prophet numerous followers but his enemies left no name on future
generations. For his steadfastness he has been given future generations as well as
blessings in the afterlife. God always intervenes in times of difficulty to ensure the
welfare of His prophets.

Question 1   EXAMINERS REPORT (O/N/09)

Three passages were given in this question from which the candidate had to choose two. Part (a)
of the answer was knowledge based and the candidates had to write about the main teachings
given in the selected suras. Part (b) was asking for a bit of reflection on these suras and there is
more than one way in which this could have been done. Candidates could have discussed the
themes of the suras in a particular manner or they could have reflected upon their meaning to
Muslims. In some of the answers given by the candidates there was a lot of paraphrasing e.g. in
sura 2.30-37, some simply rewrote the sura in their own words, that is not what is required.

In answering part (a) for all three suras the candidates need to focus on what is being taught or
said to Muslims/humanity by Allah. Taking the sura mentioned above as an example, it could be
said that the verse describes the divine scheme of the creation of Adam, prostration of the angels
before Adam and the defiance of Iblis. It further tells us about Adam’s stay and exile from
heaven...Allah finally pardoned him and warned him about the trials and responsibilities of
worldly life. In sura 5.110, it was important to discuss why Allah gave Jesus the miracles rather
than listing the miracles as they were there in the passage. The third sura was well attempted by
most candidates, some however failed to link the sura to the Prophet and the event when it was
revealed.

In Part (b) many struggle with what is being asked and because of it go on to repeat the answer
they have already given in Part (a).There is a specific requirement of each part of the answer and
that is what the candidates must address in their answers. One way of gaining marks in part (b) is
by comparing the sura being answered to other suras that deal with a similar theme. Some
candidates did do that and discussed how Sura Kausar and Sura-al-Duha were revealed to the
Prophet in similar conditions, i.e. when his  Enemies were mocking him. A good evaluation from
this point of view helped these candidates in getting to a higher level.

(a) What are the main teachings? (M/J/2011)

(1) Sura 2.21-22

This passage talks about tawhid and emphasises that God is the Creator of everything.
Candidates could talk about what Allah has created for the benefit of mankind (guidance,
fertile earth, shade and water from sky). It also suggests that mankind should not commit the
greatest sin of associating partners/rivals with God, for He is the only Creator and Sustainer.

(2) Sura 99
This passage is about God’s power over all things and the Last Day. Answers to this sura could
include God’s control of all things He’s created. They could also elaborate by saying that human
beings will be at a state of loss and confusion. Mankind will be sorted out into groups and all
their actions, however big or small, will be shown to them. The earth is treated like a person who
will speak out.

(3) Sura 114

Good answers to this passage will talk about God’s power and His ability to protect humans from
the various evils of the world, from jinn and men. God is all-powerful so He can help humans
resist temptations which come from different sources. Because nothing is greater than God, he
can protect from the whisperings which prompt humans to do and think bad.

(b) How are these teachings represented in this passage?

Sura 2.21-22
These teachings show the relationship between God and His creation. The passage reflects upon
the natural world and the benefits it holds for them. Metaphors are used to show the comfort God
has given mankind, therefore, humans should acknowledge who their sustenance has come from
as He is the only creator of everything. Candidates could also link to other relevant suras, e.g.
sura 112 relating to tawhid, or others showing God’s bounties to men.

(2) Sura 99
These teachings tell man that everyone will be judged on the Last Day. Good answers will be
able to talk about how the world will come to an end. They should also be able to talk about how
mankind will be shown all their deeds so should be careful about how they live their lives. Better
answers will be able to reflect on these teachings and/or show how other passages can be related
to this one.

(3) Sura 114

These teachings tell Muslims about God’s power which means He can protect against
everything. "Lord", "King" and "God" of mankind are used to highlight this. Candidates could
talk about the various evils mentioned here that can inflict humans in their everyday lives, but
that God is a refuge against them because of His infinite power. They could also expand on this
point by mentioning that humans with this belief in God as a refuge need have no fear of evils.
Other passages could be referenced showing similarities.

Question 1 EXAMINER REPORT (M/J/2011)

This question was answered with some themes being identified in all suras. Some candidates
answered parts (a) and (b) together without differentiating them, and so did not follow the rubric.
Some candidates repeated a lot of the same themes in their answer.
(a) For part (a) good answers would have been able to pick out key themes from two passages.
For passage 1, good answers talked about God being the creator of all things on earth which are
required for mankind’s sustenance, and it is only He that is capable of this.
For passage 2, good answers talked about the belief in the Last Day when mankind will be
judged, God’s power over this, and that mankind will be shown their deeds. This was a popular
choice with candidates and they tended to pick out the key themes well.
For passage 3, again good answers talked about God’s power. Many candidates chose this
passage, but many of them gave background information about the sura rather than picking out
the key themes.

Most candidates gave general answers to the two passages they had chosen, and very few
managed to bring out a variety of themes which would have put the answer into the higher levels.
The theme of tawhid was not mentioned often by candidates.

(b) Here, good answers would have been able to say how these themes are presented specifically
in these suras. Most answers replicated what was written in part (a).
Better answers were able to take key words from the passage and expand on their
meaning/relevance to the themes, e.g. the words “Lord”, “King” and “God” highlight God’s
power. These answers also quoted other suras that were similar but more importantly, were able
to give details of why they were similar.

(a) What are the main teachings? (M/J/2010)

(1) Sura 6.101–103

Good answers to this passage will talk about God’s power and knowledge over all things. He is
the only one to control the heavens and the earth and so emphasises the theme of tawhid.
Candidates could talk about the importance of God being the only creator, not sharing authority
with anyone else. They could also mention God’s knowledge and power. He has knowledge
about all His creation, and He has power over all His creation. He is not perceivable and
mankind should worship Him.
(2) Sura 41.37
This passage is about God as creator and his power to create and control everything. Good
answers will talk about God creating and controlling things in nature, things that benefit
mankind. The passage is also about the existence of God and signs in creation. So it is Him alone
that should be obeyed.

(3) Sura 112

Good answers to this passage will talk about God’s unique characteristics which are central to
the Islamic faith. Candidates can talk about tawhid, and elaborate on its importance They could
also talk about God being eternal and absolute and unique, and elaborate on what the meaning of
these words are. There is no-one like Him and He is completely alone in these attributes. The
above answers are not the only answers that could be presented. Candidates should be allowed to
develop/show other relevant themes of the passage. They could also give comparisons with
themes of other passages. The highest level should be kept for well written answers offering a
variety of themes.

(b) What do these teachings mean?

(1) Sura 6: 101–103

These teachings emphasise the importance of tawhid for Muslims, and the first verse
summarises this by asking mankind to reflect upon His relationships and how it’s not possible
for Him to have family. The only relationship He has is with His creation, and candidates could
also talk about how man is asked to worship Him as it says in this passage that only He can fulfil
their needs. Candidates could talk about His unique attributes mentioned in this sura, which are
unlike human attributes. Mankind should reflect upon this so they know not to worship anyone
other than Him.

(2) Sura 41.37

The themes are presented in this passage by presenting God’s creation of things in nature, in
particular the sun and moon and day and night. Candidates could talk about the importance of
these things for mankind and why they are mentioned to show God’s power. Good answers will
talk about why humans should worship Him and not His creation, and about how the things He
creates have an order and harmony.

(3) Sura 112

The themes in this passage are presented in a concise way, a key feature of this sura.
Candidates should talk about the words used in this passage to show God’s
characteristics/uniqueness, e.g. saying that he does not have children nor was he born shows that
he has no children or family. There are other passages in the Qur’an that mention these same
themes, which could be referenced, but this one is considered to be the most significant [due to
the importance the Prophet gave to it (being one third of Qur’an)].

Higher level answers in part (b) will be able to say how certain words/phrases/ideas
are used in the passages to convey the themes mentioned in part (a). Candidates
could say how the imagery is like or unlike other passages, but should show how they
are related, not just reference them.

Question 1 EXAMINERS REPORT (M/J/2010)

This question was relatively well answered with major themes being identified in all Suras.
However, as with last year, some candidates answered parts (a) and (b) together without
differentiating them. Good practice would be to give a descriptive answer in part (a) for two
Suras, and an evaluative answer in part (b) for two Suras. Examiners also found that many
candidates did not number the part and Sura they were answering
accurately (e.g. Question 1a, Sura ii), which made it hard for the Examiners to understand what
the candidate was answering. The better answers were careful to avoid paraphrasing of the
translation which is already given.

(a) For part (a) good answers would have been able to pick out key themes from two passages.
Most candidates showed a good level of knowledge about the key themes of the passages they
chose to answer. They talked about the oneness of God, tawhid being central to Islam, God’s
power, He being creator and the things he creates, His knowledge of everything. Most candidates
were able to give a description of some of these points relating to two passages they had chosen,
passages one and three being the most popular. However, there was often a lack of depth in the
answers e.g. giving general descriptions about tawhid being the oneness of God. A significant
number wrote very brief descriptions. Candidates should also try to show they know the meaning
of “beget” and “begotten” as many Examiners felt candidates were writing about
them in the wrong context.

(b) Here, good answers would have been able to say what these teachings mean for Muslims and
how these teachings are presented specifically in these Suras.
A significant minority of candidates were able to answer this part of the question well, with
thoughtful and insightful answers. Most candidates gave average answers. Examiners noted that
having answered part (a) on the main theme of the Sura, candidates are at a loss as to what to
write for part (b) and many merely repeat or re-arrange the information they have used in (a).
There was a lot of repetition in answers.
Good answers talked about specific words or ideas from the Suras, how they brought out the key
themes, and their relevance to Islam or Muslims. For example, in passage two the description of
the sun and the moon showed God’s power in creating things which are signs for mankind.
These allow man to reflect upon their creator and the things that He has created for the benefit of
mankind, which brings humans closer to Him in their everyday lives. Good candidates were also
able to reference other relevant Suras from the Qur’an which had similar themes and say how
they were related. However, there were a significant number of candidates who only quoted
other
Suras in part (b) without saying why that Sura was relevant to the Sura which they had chosen to
write about from the Question Paper.

(a) What are the main teachings? (M/J/09)

(i) Sura 1
Answers for this sura could talk about God’s graciousness and mercy, that he is master of the
worlds (known and unknown) as well as master of the Day of Judgement. They could also
mention why only He should be asked for help (e.g. he gives guidance which stops them from
going astray). Candidates could also expand on this relationship between God and His creatures,
and the guidance he gives which they must follow (Qur’an and Sunnah).

(ii) Sura 96.1-5

This passage is about God as Creator and Teacher. Answers to this sura could include
God’s control of all things He’s created, including mankind, and that He is the one who
teaches mankind. They could also elaborate on the passage’s emphasis on knowledge
by describing how God teaches humans through revealed knowledge (through books)
and the importance of the first word in the passage, Iqra!

(iii) Sura 2.21-22

This passage talks about tawhid (oneness) and emphasises that God is the Creator of
everything. Candidates could talk about what Allah has created for the benefit of
mankind (guidance, fertile earth, shade and water from sky). It also suggests that
mankind should not commit the greatest sin of associating partners/rivals with God, for
He is the only Creator and Sustainer. Candidates could also link to other relevant suras,
e.g. Sura 112 relating to tawhid, or others showing God’s bounties to men.
(b) What do these teachings mean?

(i) Sura 1
These teachings show the relationship between God and humans, and so candidates
should talk about this relationship in light of the sura. Candidates could talk about how
Muslims should obey God’s will. Although this can be difficult, God is there to help when
He is asked. His guidance is there for humans to follow, which is mainly shown in the
Qur’an and Sunnah.

(ii) Sura 96.1-5

These teachings also help Muslims to see the relationship between God and man.
Candidates could talk about God’s power, which is seen in the way He is able to create
humans. After creation, He shows care for his creatures by sending revealed scriptures
so they are not left on their own. Excellent answers will be able to comment on how
knowledge is a link between man and God, and why they should do all they can to learn
throughout their lives.

(iii) Sura 2.21-22

These teachings show the relationship between God and His creation. Candidates
could reflect upon the natural world and the benefits it holds for them. They can also
see this from the guidance that came before them from prophets. Therefore, humans
should acknowledge who their sustenance has come from as He is the only creator of
everything.

Question 1 EXAMINERS REPORT (M/J/09)

This question was relatively well answered with major themes being identified in all suras.
However, there was some confusion when answering this question where some candidates
answered parts (a) and (b) together without differentiating them, and so would have lost marks
for not following the rubric. Good practice would be to give a descriptive answer in part (a) for
two suras, and an evaluative answer in part (b)
for two suras. The better answers were careful to avoid paraphrasing of the translation which is
already given.

(a) For part (a) good answers would have been able to pick out key themes from two passages.
For passage 1, they talked about God’s mercy, His mastery of all things created, as well as being
the master of the Day of Judgement. Further, the relationship with His creation was mentioned
acknowledging that God gives guidance to stop mankind from going astray. For passage 2, good
answers talked about God being creator of everything, and how he is able to create things from
nothing/something insignificant. Excellent answers were able to talk about the importance of
knowledge and to elaborate on the knowledge that God has given mankind. For passage 3, again
good answers recognised that God is the creator of everything and were able to talk about the
benefits He has given to mankind. They were also able to mention the emphasis
in the sura on the Oneness of God. Most candidates were able to give a description of some of
these points relating to two passages they had chosen, passages one and two being the most
popular. A significant minority wrote very brief descriptions which would not have got them
high marks.

(b) Here, good answers would have been able to say what these teachings mean for Muslims
today and how these teachings are presented specifically in these suras.

For passage 1, good answers talked about the relationship between God and humans and how
humans should obey God’s teachings. God is the only one who can help mankind and is there to
help when asked. His guidance is given in the Qur’an and sunnah and so Muslims should follow
these in their everyday lives. Excellent answers would have shown this through examples.

For passage 2, good answers talked about God’s power being seen in His ability to create
humans and that after He has created them He provides them with knowledge so that they are not
left on their own. Excellent answers commented on why mankind should do all they can to learn
throughout their lives.

For passage 3, good answers talked about the benefits the natural world holds for them and why
God has created the things mentioned in the sura for mankind. Excellent answers talked about
acknowledging who their sustenance has come from, He being the creator of everything, and
ways in which they can be grateful. A significant minority of candidates were able to answer this
part of the question well, with thoughtful and insightful answers.
Most candidates gave average answers, some because they did not fully understand the question.
Many of them just repeated what they had written in part (a).

(a) What are the main teachings? (O/N/2011)

(1) Sura 41.37

This passage is about God as creator and his power to create and control everything. Good
answers will talk about God creating and controlling things in nature, things that benefit
mankind. The passage is also about the existence of God and signs in creation. So it is Him alone
that should be obeyed.

(2) Sura 96.1-5

This passage is about God as Creator and Teacher. Answers to this sura could include
God’s control of all things He has created, including mankind, and that He is the one who
teaches mankind. It describes mankind’s origins and God’s favours upon him.

(3) Sura 2.21-22

This passage talks about tawhid and emphasises that God is the Creator of everything.
Candidates could talk about what Allah has created for the benefit of mankind (guidance,
fertile earth, shade and water from sky). It also suggests that mankind should not commit the
greatest sin of associating partners/rivals with God, for He is the only Creator and Sustainer.
Candidates could also link to other relevant suras, e.g. sura 112 relating to tawhid, or others
showing God’s bounties to men.
The above answers are not the only answers that could be presented. Candidates
should be allowed to develop/show other relevant themes of the passage. They could
also give comparisons with themes of other passages. The highest level should be kept for well
written answers offering a variety of themes.

(b) How are the teachings represented in the passage?

(1) Sura 41.37

The themes are presented in this passage by presenting God’s creation of things in nature, in
particular the sun and moon and day and night. Candidates could talk about the importance of
these things for mankind and why they are mentioned to show God’s power. Good answers will
talk about why humans should worship Him and not His creation, and about how the things He
creates have an order and harmony.

(2) Sura 96.1-5

These themes are represented through the various words in this sura, but mainly Iqra.
Candidates could talk about this word and the way it is used to show God’s relationship with
man. They could also talk about creation and the way God describes in this passage how He
creates mankind and also how He teaches him (by the pen, by sending revealed scriptures).
Excellent answers will also be able to comment on how knowledge is a link between man and
God.

(3) Sura 2.21-22

This passage represents the themes of God and His creation, and His oneness, through the natural
world. Candidates could talk about the words used to show how the natural world is a comfort
for mankind, and so they should look after it. They could reflect upon the natural world and the
benefits it holds for them. Humans should acknowledge who their sustenance has come from as
He is the only creator of everything.

Candidates could also talk about ways in which Muslims can be grateful to God.
Higher level answers in part (b) will be able to say how certain words/phrases/ideas
are used in the passages to convey the themes mentioned in part (a).

Question 1 EXAMINERS REPORT (O/N/2011)

Some themes were identified in all suras. It does seem that candidates are not entirely clear as to
how they should answer this question. Some candidates answered parts (a) and (b) together
without differentiating them, and so did not follow the rubric, and some gave answers to all three
suras. Many candidates repeated a lot of the same themes in their answer.
(a) For part (a) good answers would have been able to pick out key themes from two passages.
Most candidates picked out the themes of God as creator and teacher, giving knowledge to
humankind. Few candidates linked this with God’s power to control things in nature that benefit
mankind, and few talked about His oneness (tawhid) with many candidates just mentioning it in
passing. Most candidates gave general answers to the two passages they had chosen. Candidates
should try to pick out as many themes from the passage as possible and enhance their answers by
giving a short explanation of that theme.

(b) Here, good answers would have been able to say how these themes are presented specifically
in these suras. Most answers for this part were average, with many candidates replicating what
they had written in part (a).
Better answers were able to reflect on the passages and show the significance of God using these
verses to highlight His oneness, power, knowledge or His link with humankind. These answers
also quoted other suras that were similar but more importantly, were able to give details of why
they were similar.

Regarding the model answer. Part (b) in Paper 1 is now a very simple question.It reads :

briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim's life today? [4]

for example we take sura Al-Maida candidates could write that : These verses show that God is
all powerful, that he is a loving God who has sent prophets to guide mankind. It strengthens ones
belief in prophets, reminds us of our insignificance and accountability to Allah. It also shows us
that Jesus was a sign and proof of Allah's power over all things.

(b) Briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslims life today. [4][S/P/2012]

(i) Allah. There is no god but He, the living, the self-subsisting, eternal. No slumber can seize
Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His
presence except as He permits? He knows what is before or after or behind them. Nor shall they
compass any of His knowledge except as He wills. His Throne extends over the heavens and the
earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Most High, the
Supreme. (Sura 2. 255)

This verse talks about God’s attributes. Candidates could mention how these attributes allow
humans to understand something about God which they can relate to. For  example, ‘no slumber
can seize Him nor sleep,’ allows humans to understand how different His nature is to humans
who need sleep to function. Some candidates may also mention the significance of this passage
being used as a prayer for protection.

(ii) 1. In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful. 2. Praise be to Allah, the cherisher and
sustainer of the worlds; 3. Most gracious, most merciful; 4. Master of the day of judgment. 5.
You we worship, and your aid we seek. 6. Show us the straight way, 7. The way of those to
whom you have given your grace, not those who earn your anger, nor those who go astray. (Sura
1)
This sura is the opening sura of the Qur’an, and talks about humankind’s relationship with God.
The themes of this sura are relevant to Muslims now as it reminds them of who is in control now,
and in the Hereafter, and who they should rely on. Candidates may also mention that this sura is
used as a prayer in many contexts, and is recited in the daily prayers.

(iii) 1. Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind, 2. the King of mankind, 3. The God of
Mankind, 4. From the mischief of the whisperer who withdraws, 5. Who whispers into the hearts
of mankind, 6. Among jinns and among mankind. (Sura 114)

The themes of this sura remind Muslims of God’s power and His ability to protect from different
kinds of evils. These evils can affect humans without them knowing it, so God’s protection
should always be sought. This sura, along with the other ‘qul’s’ is recited for protection.

(a) What are the main teachings? [M/J/12]

(1) Sura 42.4–5

This passage is about God’s power over all things as everything in creation belongs to
Him. Answers to this sura could include God’s control of all things He’s created. They
could also elaborate and mention God’s forgiveness and mercy (despite Him being
unapproachable). There’s the contrast of God and things in creation.

(2) Sura 1
Answers for this sura could talk about God’s graciousness and mercy, that He is master
of the worlds (known and unknown) as well as master of the Day of Judgement. They
could also mention why only He should be asked for help (e.g., He gives guidance which
stops them from going astray).

(3) Sura 108

Good answers for this passage will talk about God’s mercy/generosity and his
relationship with the Prophet Muhammad. Answers may talk about how God has granted
the Prophet success, and because of this the Prophet and all Muslims should continue
to show loyalty to God even in times of difficulty. It was revealed as a consolation to the
Prophet and foretold the destruction of his opponents.

The above answers are not the only answers that could be presented. Candidates
should be allowed to develop/show other relevant themes of the passage. They could
also give comparisons with themes of other passages. The highest level should be
kept for well written answers offering a variety of themes.

(b) The importance of these passages in a Muslims’ life today.

(1) Sura 42.4–5

Candidates could mention that God tells mankind of his power and control over all things
and that they should remember that they do not have any power in comparison. Good
candidates could mention that despite His authority, God is telling man about the
significance of the angels praying for beings on the earth and how this is a reflection of
His mercy. Muslims in turn should be grateful and also try to be forgiving of others.

(2) Sura 1
These teachings show the relationship between God and humans, and so candidates
should talk about this relationship. Candidates could talk about how Muslims should
obey God’s will. He is there to help when He is asked. Muslims use this passage for
help/guidance and as a prayer. His guidance is mainly shown through the Qur’an and
sunna. It makes Muslims realise they are accountable to God and so pray to be guided
and kept on the straight path.

(3) Sura 108

Answers could mention that God reassured the Prophet for his steadfastness and
promised him blessings in afterlife. This sura gives hope to people in times of need. God
intervenes when one is in difficulty, so Muslims should look to Him for help and support
and be grateful for what He has given them, remembering that real rewards are in the
afterlife. Justice should be left to God.
These are not the only points candidates can mention, and personalising the
passages to their own/Muslims’ lives will take them higher up the levels.

Question 1 [EXAMINER’S REPORT] [M/J/2012]

In part (a) candidates should always look to link the themes specifically to the suras they have
chosen to write about, and not to list general themes that could apply to any sura. The
information provided for part (a) should be applied in part (b), not repeated. To achieve the
higher levels candidates need to avoid paraphrasing the suras. Most candidates were able to
attempt to define the significance of the themes in a
Muslim’s life, and many were able to give good answers.

(a) Many candidates were able to give some themes for the two suras they chose to write about.
To reach the top level candidates need to concentrate totally on explaining the text of the sura,
and not include general comments about the attributes of God.
Most answers focused on tawhid as a theme for all three of the suras. Candidates need to relate
how a particular sura speaks about tawhid as well as writing about other themes. Candidates
were able to mention themes of power, forgiveness and that God is the only one to be asked for
help. To achieve the highest levels candidates needed to give details, e.g. saying that the angels
praying for forgiveness for beings on earth was a good example of how God was showing how
forgiving He is.

(b) The performance on this part (b) was quite high. Many showed good understanding of the
application of the teaching in a Muslim’s life today. Good examples of application in part (b)
were, for Sura 42, how Muslims could forgive others who had wronged them, with examples
including family members who had said hurtful words, so that God could forgive them; for Sura
1, examples included how Muslims could make du’a for God to
guide them on to the straight path in their daily lives and keep them away from temptations; for
Sura 108, how Muslims facing injustice in troubled spots in the world should put their trust in
God for justice.

(a) What are the main teachings? [O/N/12]

(1) Sura 6.75-79

This passage is about God showing His signs to mankind to strengthen their belief and so they
know about His Oneness, as well as helping his prophets when they are in need.
Candidates could mention that the signs of the sun and the moon and the star were shown to
Abraham to clear his confusion about his ancestor’s belief in idols. These verses tell Muslims to
worship god alone.

(2) Sura 5.110

This passage talks about God’s relationship with his messengers, in this case the prophet Jesus.
Candidates could talk about God’s power and authority over all things, that it is He who allows
all things to happen. He gives his prophets miracles and powers as a reflection of His power, but
also to help them. Just as He helps them in their guidance for people, He also protects them from
harm.

(3) Sura 93
This sura was revealed as a consolation to the Prophet Muhammad that God has not left
Him, as the disbelievers claimed. Rather God shows in this sura how he helped the Prophet, as
He helps all his prophets. Candidates could mention that these verses give reassurance that God
is always there to help in need. For this humankind should be grateful.

The above answers are not the only answers that could be presented. Candidates
should be allowed to develop/show other relevant themes of the passage. They could
also give comparisons with themes of other passages. The highest level should be
kept for well written answers offering a variety of themes.

[b] The importance of these passages in a Muslims’ life today.

(1) Sura 6.75-79

These teachings tell humans to have belief in God alone and not ascribe partners to Him. It
shows how God communicated with his prophet through His creation, and that humankind
should therefore also look for God’s signs in creation to strengthen belief. Better answers may
give examples of this from the lives of Muslims as to how they can use this passage to strengthen
belief, as well as giving references to other passages.

(2) Sura 5.110

These teachings show the relationship between God and His prophet Jesus. They show
humankind the different kind of miracles God is able to perform, which show His power and
majesty, but also how He helps His creation in different ways. In this way they remind Muslims
of God’s power, shown through His prophets, and how He can be there to help them. It reminds
Muslims how God has the power to change things.

(3) Sura 93
These teachings tell Muslims about blessings that God gave to the Prophet Muhammad.
Candidates could talk about how the Prophet did not forget this and told people about the
blessings that had been bestowed upon him. Just as the Prophet was grateful for what he was
given, humans should also look to their lives to see the blessings given to them and should be
grateful for them, because God always helps people in difficulty. Better answers will be able to
illustrate this belief using clear examples from Muslims’ lives.

These are not the only points candidates can mention, and personalising the
passages to their own/Muslims’ lives will take them higher up the levels.

(a) What are the main teachings? [O/N/12]

(1) Sura 99
This passage is about God’s power over all things and the Last Day. Answers to this sura could
include God’s control of all things He’s created. They could also elaborate by saying that human
beings will be at a state of loss and confusion. Humankind will be sorted out in to groups and all
their actions, however big or small, will be shown to them. The earth is treated like a person who
will speak out.

(2) Sura 2:255

This passage talks about tawhid and some of the attributes specific to God alone.
Candidates could talk about how God is different to humans. The theme of the throne is
central to this passage. Candidates could say what that is; His majesty, uniqueness, being totally
unlike other beings. It emphasises how He is the only one who can make decisions about His
creation, as He has knowledge over all things.

(3) Sura 112

Good answers to this passage will talk about God’s unique characteristics which are central to
Islam. Candidates can talk about tawhid, and elaborate on its importance. They could also talk
about God being eternal and absolute and elaborate on what the meaning of these words are. God
is unique in that no-one else can match His attributes, and there is no-one like Him, which is
related to the fact that He has no children or family.
The above answers are not the only answers that could be presented. Candidates
should be allowed to develop/show other relevant themes of the passage. They could
also give comparisons with themes of other passages. The highest level should be
kept for well written answers offering a variety of themes.
(b) The importance of these themes in a Muslims’ life today.
(1) Sura 99
These teachings tell humans that everyone will be judged on the Last Day. Good answers will be
able to talk about the state of the earth and how that relates to humankind’s actions today. They
should also be able to talk about how humankind will be shown all their deeds so should be
careful about how they live their lives. Better answers will be able to reflect on these teachings
using examples.
(2) Sura 2.255 Candidates could talk about how these passages present the themes of God’s
selfsubsistence by comparing Him to humans using basic attributes that affect humans, e.g.
sleep. Candidates could talk about how these verses allow Muslims to learn and understand
something about God in a way relevant to them. It is a passage that is also used as a prayer for
protection and was said by the Prophet to be one of the best passages of the Qur’an.
(3) Sura 112This sura is important as it is used to show the central theme of Islam, tawhid, in a
concise way. Candidates should talk about how the words used in this passage tell Muslims
about God’s uniqueness. There are other passages in the Qur’an that mention these same themes
but this one is considered to be the most significant due to the importance the Prophet gave to it
(being one third of the Qur’an). Therefore Muslims recite it abundantly.