Write about the role of ‘Umar in the lifetime of the Prophet.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2015). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [10] Candidates should expand on the points below and write a clear and concise narrative. 'Umar ibn al-Khattab: he accepted Islam at the age of 26/27. Before his conversion, he had gone to kill the Prophet; when told his own sister and brother in law had converted he went to her house. He found them reciting verses from sura Taha; ‘Umar was angry with them then asked to see the writing which they were reading, but his sister said only those who have been purified can read it, and so ‘Umar made wudu' before being given the Qur'an. After his conversion, 'Umar refused to keep Islam a secret, after which Muslims could pray openly. He didn't emigrate in secret, he fought in all the battles, giving half his wealth for the campaign of Tabuk, and is one of the ten promised paradise. He was one of the witnesses for the Treaty of Hudaybiyya, although he was initially not satisfied with the terms. On the Prophet's death, in his grief, he said he would kill anyone who said that the Prophet had died. Details about 'Umar's life after the Prophet's death will not be credited.
2. [4] Candidates could say that 'Umar had a very staunch character and was open about his idolatry and opposition to Islam. Yet his conversion meant that the Qur'an was able to affect someone who on the outside looked like an enemy of Islam, therefore Muslims should still try to convey the good in Islam to non-Muslims even if they seem against it. His conversion meant Muslims had someone to stand up and defend them, and he was not afraid of letting people know about his new faith, so Muslims should also try to be open about their faith and not hide it. Candidates can offer other answers but should try to give an explanation or details to get higher marks.