Write about the battle of the Trench (Khandaq) fought in 627.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2017). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. Khandaq: Banu Nadir had broken their treaty agreements and planned to kill the Prophet (pbuh);
2. they planned an attack with the Makkans and other Arab tribes, and gathered an army of 10000;
3. the Muslims gathered 3000 men; Salman al-Farsi suggested the Muslims dig trenches to keep the army out, wide enough and deep enough not to be crossed;
4. hypocrites in Madina joined the Makkans; Banu Qurayza did not initially want to break their agreements with the Prophet, but later were convinced to help the Quraysh;
5. there was little food and water; Jabir invited the Prophet (pbuh) to eat after slaughtering a sheep, and the prophet fed the whole army with this one animal;
6. the Quraysh tried to cross the trench, a couple of riders managed to cross a part that was narrower; 'Ali fought them off;
7. the siege ran into weeks; the Prophet (pbuh) used strategic skills to create mistrust between the alliances;
8. they eventually gave up after a storm for three days which prevented them from lighting fires, cooking food and keeping warm; Banu Qurayza were punished for their treachery by their own laws.
9. Candidates can offer a variety of lessons but should give an explanation for their answer.
10. The Prophet (pbuh) was the leader of the army and yet he took part in digging the trench, despite his severe hunger.
11. This teaches Muslims that no matter what their position, whether heads of state or community leaders, they should take part in hard work required for the benefit of the community or others.
12. It also provides a lesson in patience and perseverance, and that God will help if you don't give up.
13. It also teaches humility, that you do not think yourself above certain types of work.