Write about the lives of 'Umar and 'Uthman during the lifetime of the Prophet (pbuh).

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2021). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. Use the AO1 Marking Grid
2. Candidates may include some of the following points. All other relevant points must be credited.
3. 'Umar ibn al-Khattab:
4. 'Umar was born in Mecca in the clan of Banu Adi. He was literate and a gifted orator.
5. He accepted Islam at the age of 26/27.
6. Before his conversion, he was on his way to attempt to kill the Prophet (pbuh).
7. When he was told that 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. His sister said only those who have been purified can read it, and so 'Umar made wudu' before being given the Qur'an.
8. After his conversion, ‘Umar refused to keep Islam a secret, after which Muslims could pray openly.
9. Prophet (pbuh) had made supplication for his conversion.
10. He didn't emigrate in secret.
11. He fought in all the battles, giving half his wealth for the campaign of Tabuk, and is one of the ten promised paradise.
12. 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, he said he would kill anyone who said that the Prophet (pbuh) had died.
13. 'Uthman ibn Affan:
14. He accepted Islam through Abu Bakr. He was a wealthy merchant in Makka, belonging to Banu Ummaya but was still tortured by his relatives after conversion. He was literate and became one the scribes of the Prophet (pbuh). He was amongst those who migrated to Abyssinia.
15. He married the Prophet's daughter Ruqayyah. Ruqayyah fell ill before the Battle of Badr, so he was excused from participating. She died while the Prophet (pbuh) was at battle.
16. 'Uthman later married the Prophet's other daughter, Umm Kulthum, and was given the name 'possessor of the two lights' (Dhu al-Nurayn).
17. He went to Makka as the Prophet's emissary to allow the Muslims to perform the pilgrimage and was detained by the Makkans; this led to the Bait e Ridhwan.
18. He took part in the battle of Uhud and at Tabuk 'Uthman supplied the army with nine hundred and forty camels, and sixty horses. He also brought ten thousand dinars to equip the army.
19. He bought a well and donated it to be used by the rich, poor and travelers. He was given the title of Ghani.
20. At the farewell pilgrimage, he escorted the wives of the Prophet (pbuh).
21. He was considered to be the most shy and modest among the Muslims.
22. Use the AO2 Marking Grid
23. Candidates may include some of the following information. All other relevant information must be credited. A descriptive note on the qualities of 'Uthman is not required here. A few lessons can be given, or elaboration can be written about on how to imitate them in one's own life.
24. It can teach people about patience and steadfastness as 'Uthman kept his faith, despite the persecutions he faced.
25. 'Uthman did not despair after his wives passed away, so patience and not losing hope are important in times of tragedy.
26. Migration is something that can be done for reasons of faith and security. Migrating twice shows the spirit of sacrifice.
27. The generosity of 'Uthman in providing for fellow believers and Islam is something that can be emulated by being generous to others, not just with wealth but by giving time and support to others.