Write about the relationship between the Qur'an and the Hadiths of the Prophet and say what the difference is between Hadith Qudsi and Hadith Nabawi.

Mark scheme

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

1. 2(a) It could be said that the relationship between the Qur'an and the ahadith of the Prophet (pbuh) is a very close one. Ahadith either explain a verse of the Qur'an or add something to its commandment. It could also be said that ahadith lay down new rulings about matters on which the Qur'an is silent. Hence the position of ahadith in the first instance is secondary to the Qur'an as it is based on the Qur'an itself whereas in the second instance it stands on its own and forms the basis of legislation.
2. 2(a) In addition, when writing about the relationship between the Qur'an and ahadith it could be said that as the Qur'an is the word of God. It contains the principles of religion and focuses on major issues and often deals with subjects in brief terms. The ahadith and sunna of the Prophet (pbuh) contain the detailed explanations of what the Qur'an has said briefly. The Qur'an it could be added gives Muslims a primary rule of life, and there are many matters where guidance for practical living is needed and this is provided once again by the ahadith of the Prophet (pbuh). Examples of how the ahadith explain the command about the payment of zakat or offering salat amongst others can be given to develop the answer. The Qur'an also commands Muslims to be good to their neighbours and a number of ahadith stress this duty and this applies to many other situations and other examples could be given by the candidate to show the vital relationship between the Qur'an and the ahadith.
3. 2(a) When the first Islamic state was founded in Madina by the Prophet (pbuh) he was not just the spiritual leader but also the supreme judge of the community. The underlying principle applied to all cases referred to the Prophet (pbuh) for judgement had its basis in the Qur'an, but if the Qur'an was silent on a matter then the Prophet (pbuh) would be the final authority for reaching a decision. The Qur'an also states that the Prophet's (pbuh) teachings should be obeyed. Where the Qur'an instructs Muslims to obey God it also instructs them to obey the Prophet (pbuh) 'he who obeys the Messenger obeys Allah' (4:80).
4. 2(a) Candidates also need to distinguish between Hadith Qudsi and Hadith Nabawi. They could say that the former contains the words of the Prophet (pbuh) himself. Hadiths that contain words from God which were said by the Prophet are called Hadith Qudsi e.g. 'Fasting is for me and I shall compensate it'. Such Hadiths do not form part of the Qur'an, though they are recognised as being the words of God Himself which were voiced by the Prophet (pbuh). Hadith Qudsi are also called divine Hadiths.
5. 2(b) Candidates could say that the Prophet (pbuh) gave permission to his companions to write down his traditions so that they could be recorded for future generations of Muslims to read and understand and thus gain a better understanding of their faith. It could also be said that he wanted his message to be passed on to those who had not heard him speak, yet another opinion could be that he was setting precedents in his rulings and conduct with other states etc. and he wanted Muslims to follow in his footsteps and do the right thing. All valid responses must be credited and should be backed by sound evaluation.