The Prophet (pbuh) conquered Makka in 630. Write an account of the main events of the conquest.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2020). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [10] The Quraysh had broken the terms of the Treaty of Hudaybiyya, by attacking Banu Khuza'ah who had allied with the Muslims. Realising the seriousness of the situation the Quraysh sent Abu Sufyan to ensure the treaty was intact, but he was unsuccessful. After making preparations for war, the Prophet (pbuh) set out with 10 000 soldiers.
2. [10] It was 8AH. The Prophet's army stopped outside Makka and it was here that Abu Sufyan became Muslim and his house was later made a place of safety.
3. [10] Abu Sufyan returned to Makka and warned the Quraysh not to resist the Muslim army; most put down their arms, but a few (Safwan, Ikrimah, Suhayl) swore to block the Muslim army from entering Makka.
4. [10] There were 4 groups, one led by Khalid bin Walid that faced resistance leading to some deaths.
5. [10] The Prophet (pbuh) knocked down the 360 idols in the Ka'ba. The keys to the Ka'ba were given to 'Uthman bin Talha, and at the time of prayer, Bilal ascended the Ka'ba and gave the adhan.
6. [10] Apart from nine people, the Quraysh were pardoned, including Wahshi and Hind.
7. [10] The Prophet (pbuh) said that anyone seeking refuge in Abu Sufyan's house, in the Ka'ba or who remained in their houses, will not be punished.
8. [10] Some Qur'anic verses related to the incident are 17.81 and 34.49.
9. [4] Candidates could say that it was important to avoid bloodshed. Everyone was given a chance to become Muslim or ask for forgiveness for what they had done in the past to the Prophet (pbuh) and the Muslims.
10. [4] It was also important to show that there was no ill-feeling towards the Makkans who had fought against the Prophet (pbuh) for many years, showing the forgiveness and mercy of God.
11. [4] Other responses can be presented but valid reasons must be given.