From the Qur'an passages set for special study in the syllabus, describe the ways in which God gave knowledge of Himself to His Messengers.

Mark scheme

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

1. [10] (a) From the Qur'an passages set for special study in the syllabus, describe the ways in which God gave knowledge of Himself to His Messengers.
2. The relevant passages from the syllabus are 2.30–37, 6.75–79, 5.110, 93 and 108.
3. These passages mention the prophets Adam, Ibrahim, Isa and Muhammad.
4. Candidates could say that God gave Adam knowledge about Himself through the things he was taught the names of, and the lessons he learnt in obedience to God. Adam was taught the names of all the things in creation, and because of his status near God, the angels were asked to bow to him. Iblis refused, and was banished. He vowed to lead Adam and his future generations astray. He did this by making Adam approach the tree he had been forbidden from. Adam realised his mistake and through this event turned to God for forgiveness. Through these events Adam learnt about God's creation, His Knowledge and His forgiveness.
5. Ibrahim was given knowledge of God through the law and order of the heavens and the earth. He was searching for his Lord, and looked to the stars and to the moon and the sun, which people at his time worshipped. God inspired him to realise that the things in creation that do not last cannot be the things to be worshipped as God does not change. Through these events he turned himself to believe in God and did not associate partners with Him. God showed Ibrahim His Unity, and His control over creation.
6. Isa was given special miracles which helped him understand the power of God. He was given the holy spirit which allowed him to speak to the people as a child and when he was older. He was also taught the Law and the Gospel to teach to the people. He was also able to give life to the dead and heal the sick, by the will of God. This all showed Isa the favours he was given by God which allowed him to believe in Him and follow Him.
7. The Prophet Muhammad faced hardships like the other prophets, but God reminds him that He gave him blessings in this life and the next, which relieved the Prophet and gave him reassurance that God was looking after him. God gave him shelter, guidance and independence, and also gave him blessings in the form of Kawthar, which some say is a river in paradise, or offspring. He learns about God through His generosity, mercy and guidance.
8. Candidates should expand on the above points and better candidates will write about at least two of the prophets mentioned. Candidates should not merely describe stories, but relate it to knowledge of Himself.
9. [4] (b) 'Undergoing hardships brings a person closer to God.' Agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your answer.
10. Candidates could agree and say, e.g. that all prophets were tested which allowed them to get closer to God, likewise humankind now can get closer to their Lord through their hardships, as long as they reflect and understand that God is testing them. Also, by remaining patient and steadfast, and not leaving their worship, they will gain rewards and understanding. Prophets were tested and remained steadfast, so Muslims should also expect to be tested and they should also remain steadfast.
11. They could say they don't agree, e.g. because not everyone goes through the same hardships, that people are different so they may react differently to hardships so they may not necessarily know they are being tested, but remaining true to prayer, fasting and the Five Pillars is more important and more likely to get a person closer to God.