Give an account of the life of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib during the life of the Prophet (pbuh).

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2023). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. He was the Prophet's cousin, and went to live with the Prophet (pbuh) at a young age to alleviate the hardship on his father.
2. He was one of the first to accept the message of Islam at the age of ten.
3. When the Prophet (pbuh) started open preaching, he called his clansmen to Islam and it was only 'Ali who stepped forward to support him.
4. He stood by the Prophet (pbuh) during the persecutions and the boycott in Makka.
5. He was entrusted with the Quraysh's belongings to be returned to them when the Prophet (pbuh) migrated to Madina, and he slept in the Prophet's bed as a decoy. He met the Prophet (pbuh) and Abu Bakr at Quba.
6. In Madina the Prophet (pbuh) chose ‘Ali as his brother when establishing brotherhood between the Ansars and Muhajireen. He married the Prophet's daughter Fatima and they had four children.
7. 'Ali was a prominent fighter in all the battles (except Tabuk), commanding the Muslim army at Khaybar. Because of his bravery he was known as the Lion of God.
8. He was one of the scribes of the Prophet (pbuh), writing down the Qur'an as well as the Treaty of Hudaybiyya.
9. 'Ali was with the Prophet (pbuh) on the final pilgrimage and he and their uncle Abbas washed the body of the Prophet (pbuh) when he died.
10. 'Ali was young but he did not let his youth allow him to shy away from the truth so even at a young age a person can make correct, and mature, decisions.
11. 'Ali knew that he had the strength to play an important role in the community and this can inspire young people now to look at their capabilities and use them for the benefit of the community.
12. 'Ali followed the guidance of trustworthy people and so youth can look to keep themselves in good company to be able to make the right decisions.
13. If a young person is able to lead the community because they are knowledgeable, whether it be in prayer or guiding others, then they should not be prevented from doing so due to their age.
14. They can also be role models for others.