Write an account of the Battle of Uhud.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2023). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [10] The Battle of Uhud took place in 3AH (625) in revenge for the Makkan defeat at Badr. The Prophet (pbuh) consulted his companions whether to fight outside or inside the city; the Muslims decided to meet the Makkan army at Uhud.
2. [10] Arriving at Uhud, the Makkan army numbered 3000 led by Abu Sufyan ibn Harb, whilst the Muslims numbered around 1000. Shortly before the battle started Abdullah ibn Ubayy deserted the army with 300 of his people.
3. [10] The Prophet posted 50 archers on a hill to protect them from being attacked from behind. In the battle Hamza was killed by Wahshi, who earned his freedom through this act.
4. [10] Khalid ibn Walid tried to break the Muslims from behind three times but the archers held him off. The Muslims were successful in driving back the Makkans, and some started to collect the spoils of war. On seeing this some of the archers left their post on the hill to join those collecting the spoils.
5. [10] Khalid ibn Walid noticed this and used the opportunity to attack the Muslims from the rear. On seeing this the Quraysh army turned back and renewed the battle. Many Muslims fled. The Prophet (pbuh) was surrounded by nine Muslims, and only Talha ibn Ubaydullah and Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas survived, whilst the Prophet (pbuh) was badly injured.
6. [10] The remaining Muslims were disheartened on hearing a rumour that the Prophet (pbuh) had been killed; the Prophet (pbuh) and the Muslims retreated to the Uhud mountain.
7. [10] The Makkans mutilated the dead bodies of the Muslims, including acts such as Hind who chewed on the liver of Hamza. The Muslims buried their martyrs and returned to Madina. Around 70 Muslims were killed and 22/37 of the Makkans.
8. [4] Muslims should listen to and obey the orders of the Prophet (pbuh) to gain success.
9. [4] Candidates could say that decisions do not have to be made by leaders on their own, that consulting with others can be beneficial.
10. [4] Loyalty is important for Muslims and communities, and they should stick together in difficult times.
11. [4] Victory is not guaranteed for Muslims, and they have to work hard for success.
12. [4] Losses and tragedies are part of life, and it is important to learn from mistakes made to avoid the same outcome again.