O-LevelIslamiyatThe first Islamic community2058/12 · Oct/Nov 2019 · Q414 Marks

Describe the events of the first battle in Islam, the Battle of Badr.

(a)Describe the events of the first battle in Islam, the Battle of Badr.[10]
(b)How important was the outcome of this battle for the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers? Give reasons for your answer.[4]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2019). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

[10] (a) A comprehensive answer will provide an account of some background information, the main events in the battle and the outcome.
(a) The battle was fought in 2AH (624). The Prophet (pbuh) and a group of around 300 men set off to intercept a caravan led by Abu Sufyan. They had 2 horses and 70 camels. Abu Sufyan sent word to the Quraysh and an army of 1300 men was gathered.
(a) Abu Sufyan slipped past the ambush and sent word to the Quraysh to go back but Abu Jahl insisted they continue; some left leaving 1000 soldiers.
(a) The Prophet (pbuh) consulted his companions and they went to meet the Quraysh army at Badr. It rained heavily that night.
(a) The Muslims camped near a water well.
(a) The next day the battle started and 'Ali, Hamza and ‘Ubaidah went out to fight and won their duels ('Ubaidah became the first martyr after losing his leg).
(a) The Makkans saw the Muslims as few in number while the Quraysh looked few in number to the Muslims.
(a) The Prophet (pbuh) prayed continuously for the success of the believers. God sent down angels to help (3:123–125). The Prophet (pbuh) threw some dust which caused a sandstorm (sura 8:17).
(a) Eventually the Makkans ran off. Abu Jahl was killed.
(a) Fourteen Muslims were killed and 70 from the Quraysh while 70 were taken prisoner; the prisoners were treated well, and some paid a ransom for their freedom, by either paying money or teaching ten people how to read and write. Bilal is said to have killed his former master.
[4] (b) Candidates could say: It was very important because it was the first battle that the Muslims had to fight after the migration, and so to lose the battle may have led to a loss in confidence and belief, as well as religious freedom.
(b) Importance: Their victory ensured they remained strong in their faith and renewed their hope in their migration. It also gave them strength in belief that God was with them.
(b) Importance: There was an economic benefit to the battle, as the war booty allowed a lot of the Muhajirun to become financially independent.
(b) Other relevant answers should be credited.