ISLAMIC STUDIES PART 1 PAST PAPERS OF B.A BSC AND B.COM

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Q.3:- Discuss Monotheism (Tauheed) and its impacts on man and society ?

Tauheed, which refers to the Islamic concept of the oneness and unity of Allah (God), has a profound impact on both individual life and society as a whole. This belief holds significant importance for Muslims, shaping their overall worldview, values, actions, and their relationship with Allah and other people.

Impact on the Man

1. Spiritual Connection: Believing in Tauheed allows individuals to establish a direct and personal relationship with Allah. It encourages them to turn to Him for guidance, support, and forgiveness, providing them with solace and peace of mind.

2. Moral and Ethical Values: Tauheed serves as a foundation for moral and ethical behavior. Since Muslims acknowledge that Allah is the ultimate source of goodness, they strive to emulate His qualities in their daily lives. This belief encourages individuals to be honest, compassionate, just, and selfless, leading to a balanced and righteous way of life.

3. Personal Responsibility: Tauheed emphasizes individual responsibility and accountability. Muslims believe that their actions are ultimately judged by Allah, and they are responsible for their intentions and deeds. This belief fosters a sense of self-discipline, self-improvement, and the desire to strive for excellence in all domains of life.

4. Personal Empowerment: Believing in Tauheed gives individuals a sense of empowerment. Muslims understand that Allah is their sustainer and provider, granting them comfort and reassurance in difficult times. Additionally, knowing that Allah has ultimate control over all matters encourages believers to remain resilient and place their trust in Him, fostering confidence and self-belief.

Impact on Society:

1. Unity and Equality: Tauheed emphasizes the equality and unity of all human beings before Allah. This belief promotes inclusivity and helps to eradicate discriminatory practices based on race, gender, or social status, fostering a society that values justice and equality.

2. Social Responsibility: The belief in Tauheed encourages Muslims to actively participate in promoting social welfare. By recognizing the importance of caring for their communities and helping the less fortunate, it motivates Muslims to engage in various philanthropic activities, such as charity, volunteerism, and social activism.

3. Justice and Fairness: Tauheed underscores the concept of divine justice, creating a profound emphasis on upholding fairness and justice in society. Muslims are encouraged to speak out against oppression and stand up for the marginalized, fostering a society that values equity and human rights.

4. Elimination of Idolatry: Tauheed's rejection of idolatry encourages Muslims to shun harmful societal practices such as idol worship, superstitions, or blind adherence to cultural traditions that contradict the belief in a single, powerful, and benevolent Creator. This helps in building a society based on reason, critical thinking, and logical analysis.

In short the impact of Tauheed on the individual life is evident in the spiritual connection, ethical values, personal responsibility, and empowerment it provides. In terms of society, Tauheed promotes unity, equality, social responsibility, justice, fairness, and the elimination of harmful practices, contributing to the creation of a more harmonious and just community.

Q.4 What is Fasting(Soum)? Briefly describe its social,Moral,Physical and Spiritual benefits?

Fasting And its social,Moral,Physical and Spiritual benefits :

Fasting in Islam is also known as sawm or siyam, and is one of the five pillars of the Islamic faith . During Ramadan, Muslims fast from food, drink, sexual activity and other immoral behavior between dawn and dusk . This means that Muslims wake up early to eat before the sun rises, and then break their fast after sunset 

Fasting, or abstaining from food and drink for a period of time, has numerous benefits across various aspects of human life. Here are some of the social, moral, physical, and spiritual benefits of fasting:

Social Benefits:

1. Empathy and compassion: Fasting helps develop empathy for those in need and cultivates compassion.

2. Community building: Fasting brings people together, fostering a sense of community and unity.

3. Charity and generosity: Fasting encourages giving to those in need, promoting generosity and kindness.

Moral Benefits:

1. Self-control and discipline: Fasting teaches self-restraint, helping individuals develop willpower and moral character.

2. Humility and gratitude: Fasting cultivates humility and gratitude for life's blessings.

3. Forgiveness and mercy: Fasting encourages forgiveness and mercy, promoting moral growth.

Physical Benefits:

1. Weight loss and improved health: Fasting can lead to weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced inflammation.

2. Detoxification and cleansing: Fasting allows the body to detoxify and cleanse itself, promoting physical renewal.

3. Improved mental clarity and focus: Fasting can enhance mental clarity, focus, and productivity.

Spiritual Benefits:

1. Spiritual growth and connection: Fasting deepens spiritual connection, fostering a sense of closeness to the divine.

2. Increased mindfulness and awareness: Fasting promotes mindfulness, helping individuals become more aware of their thoughts and actions.

3. Forgiveness and spiritual cleansing: Fasting is believed to cleanse the soul, promoting spiritual renewal and forgiveness.

Remember, the benefits of fasting can vary depending on individual circumstances and health conditions. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen.

Q.NO:5 -Write short notes on any two of following?

Treaty of Hudabiya

The Treaty of Ḥudaybiyya is a brilliant chapter in Islamic history. It can be called umm muʿāhadāt al-salām (the mother of peace treaties) in Islamic history. Just as migration to Medina is a dividing line between the periods of religious oppression and political independence for Muslims, Ḥudaybiyya is a boundary between the phases of struggle and domination. The role of this treaty in the spread of Islam was evident from the beginning, and much has been written about it. However, nothing has been produced about the role of ʿAbd Allah b. ʿUmar, inspired by the Ḥudaybiyya treaty, in peacemaking. This paper argues that due to his circumstances, Ibn ʿUmar became the first person to discover the spirit of the Ḥudaybiyya treaty for procuring peace during the fitan (civil wars). His efforts were not limited to intellectual achievements, but amid the worst wars of the fitan, he tried to practically implement the soul of the Ḥudaybiyya agreement that impacted later generations. He believed that Islam could flourish in a peaceful society, as had happened after the Ḥudaybiyya treaty. The role he played in a tribal society without holding any official position makes Ibn ʿUmar’s leadership highly relevant to today’s world, where intellectual and spiritual leaders can play a role more pivotal than ever.

LAST SERMON OF HOLY PROPHET P.B.U.H

The Last Sermon of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was delivered on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, 10 AH (632 CE) at Mount Arafat, during his farewell pilgrimage (Hajj). It is considered one of the most important speeches in Islamic history. Here are some key points from the sermon:

1. "O people, listen to my words, for I do not know if I shall ever meet you again in this place after this year."

2. "Your lives and your properties are sacred and inviolable until you meet your Lord, just as this month and this city are sacred."

3. "Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners."

4. "All usury is abolished, but your capital is yours to keep."

5. "The blood of every Muslim is equal, and even the lowest of Muslims can give protection to a fellow Muslim."

6. "An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor has a non-Arab any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black, nor has a black any superiority over white except by piety and good actions."

7. "Have I conveyed the message of Allah?"

(The crowd responded, "Yes!")

1. "O Allah, bear witness that I have conveyed the message!"

(The sermon ended with the Prophet's famous declaration)

This sermon emphasized the importance of justice, equality, and compassion, and reiterated the fundamental principles of Islam. It served as a reminder to the Muslim community of their responsibilities and obligations towards one another and towards Allah.

CHARTER OF MADINA

The Charter of Medina, also known as the Constitution of Medina, was a document drafted by the Prophet Muhammad in 622 CE, shortly after his arrival in Medina. It established a multireligious state, with provisions for:

1. Mutual defense and cooperation between Muslims, Jews, and other tribes.

2. Equal rights and protection for all citizens, regardless of religion or social status.

3. Freedom of religion and cultural autonomy for each community.

4. A system of justice, with the Prophet Muhammad as the final arbiter.

5. The establishment of a council of leaders from each tribe to advise the Prophet.

6. The document also outlined rules for warfare, taxation, and other matters of state.

The Charter of Medina is considered one of the earliest examples of a written constitution and a milestone in the development of democratic and human rights principles. It demonstrated the Prophet's vision of a harmonious and inclusive society, where diverse communities could coexist and thrive together.

CONQUEST OF MAKKAH

(1) Brief History

Makkah was conquered without any bloodshed by an army of 10,000 believers led by the Prophet Muhammad (saw) on the 20th of Ramadan in the year 8 AH (after Hijrah). It is not insignificant that Allah chose this blessed month to mark such an important event as the Conquest of Makkah. Like the Battle of Badr, which took place on 17th Ramadan, this was a key turning point in Islamic history. As such, this important month was divinely selected for these events.

(2) Why did the Conquest of Makkah take place?

After experiencing horrific persecution in Makkah, the early Muslims made Hijrah (migrated) to Madinah where they were aided by the Ansar (supporters). Over the next few years, a series of battles took place between the Muslims and the Quraysh of Makkah. This conflict came to a brief pause in the year 6 AH, after the Prophet (saw) signed a historic peace treaty with them, after being refused entry into Makkah to perform ’Umrah. This became known as the Treaty of Hudaybiyah and was agreed to last for 10 years. The Muslims set out to use this time to spread Islam to other tribes.

One of the terms of the treaty was that any tribe outside of Makkah or Madinah was allowed to choose to ally themselves with the believers or with the Quraysh. However, if any of these tribes had altercations, neither the believers nor the Quryash could support their allies against the other’s allies. Banu Khuza’ah aligned themselves with the Muslims and accepted Islam, whilst Banu Bakr chose to side with the Quraysh. Within just two years, the Quraysh not only violated the treaty by secretly supporting Banu Bakr to fight Banu Khuza’ah, but they also participated in killing 20 Muslims amongst them, including a person who fled and sought refuge in the sacred area around the Ka‘bah. The sanctity of the House of Allah had been violated, and the treaty broken.

When the news of this reached the Prophet (saw), he demanded the Quraysh to pay the blood money for Banu Khuza’ah and terminate their alliance with Banu Bakr, otherwise the treaty would become null and void. They refused these terms but still sent Abu Sufyan to Madinah to negotiate, but he was turned away. Aishah (ra) narrated that she had never seen the Prophet (saw) angrier than when he heard the news of the atrocities that had taken place in front of the Ka’bah.

The Prophet (saw) retaliated by preparing for war to conquer Makkah. He instructed the Sahabah (ra) to keep the plans a secret to take the Makkans by surprise, which would prevent further bloodshed. The Muslim army set out on 10th Ramadan in the year 8 AH and were joined by many other tribes new to Islam. Their numbers reached 10,000 by the time they reached Makkah.

(3) The Conquest of Makkah began the spread of Islam

When the Prophet (saw) marched into Makkah, he repeatedly recited this verse from Surah al-Isra:

The believers joined him in removing all of the idols from the Ka’bah and destroying them, marking an end to Shirk (polytheism) in the Sacred Masjid and the return of Tawheed (Islamic monotheism) to the very place Ibrahim and Ismail (as) built many years before.

The Conquest of Makkah marked the beginning of a new era and showed the believers that Allah would support and aid Islam.

(4) What pre-Islamic practices did the Prophet (saw) abolish? 

After celebrating the victory by praying to Allah inside the Ka’bah, the Prophet (saw) then addressed the people of Makkah. He began by praising Allah:

He also declared an end to the tribalism and racism that had been rampant before Islam:

‘O people, Allah has removed the slogans of ignorance from you and the exaltation of its forefathers. The people are only two kinds: either a righteous, Godfearing believer dignified to Allah, or a wicked, miserable sinner insignificant to Allah. The people are all the children of Adam and Adam was created from dust.’ [Tirmidhi]

We are all people made from the earth, no matter what our colour is, what language we speak, or what land we are from. The only thing that is of importance is our righteousness.

The Prophet (saw) then recited to people the verse from Surah Hujurat:

‘O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may [get to] know one another. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Allah is truly All-Knowing, All-Aware.’ [The Noble Qur’an, 49:13]

The Prophet (saw) even commanded Bilal (ra), a companion of Abyssinian descent, to climb the Ka’bah and give the call to prayer. This was a huge moment in history, and a demonstration of Islam’s commitment to ending racism.

(5) What did the Prophet (saw) do to the Quraysh after the Conquest of Makkah?

Before the Muslims entered Makkah, the Prophet (saw) informed Abu Sufyan that anyone who took refuge in their homes or in the Sacred Masjid would be safe. The city was conquered without any bloodshed, and the sanctity of the Ka’bah was honoured.

The Prophet (saw) then addressed the very people who had oppressed and slandered him and who persecuted and killed his companions. He asked them what they thought he would do with them, to which they replied, ‘You are our noble brother, son of our noble brother! We expect nothing but goodness from you.’

The Prophet (saw) said, ‘I say to you as Yusuf (Joseph) said to his brothers, “No blame upon you today. Allah will forgive you, for He is the Most Merciful of the merciful.”’ [The Noble Qur’an, 12:92]

In another narration, the Prophet (saw) said to them, ‘Go, you are free.’

The Prophet (saw) even forgave Hind bint Utbah who had conspired to kill his beloved uncle Hamzah (ra) at the Battle of Uhud.

The Conquest of Makkah was a day of mercy and forgiveness. The people all embraced Islam.

(6) After hardship comes ease

After years of persecution in Makkah, numerous battles against the Quraysh, and countless other difficulties, Allah finally brought ease to the Prophet (saw). When he was turned out of his own home, the Prophet (saw) looked back with longing before making his way to Madinah saying,

‘How sweet of a land you are, and how beloved you are to me! If it were not that my people expelled me from you, I would not have lived in other than you.’ [Tirmidhi]

Eight years later, Allah rewarded the long struggle to spread the message of Islam with a beautiful return to his home. This return marked the end of polytheism in the House of Allah and the turn of the tide for the Muslims. It wasn’t long before people began to accept Islam in large numbers.

Allah revealed Surah An-Nasr, a short but powerful chapter, with verses about the Conquest of Makkah:

‘When the victory of Allah has come and the conquest, And you see the people entering into the religion of Allah in multitudes, then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him. Indeed, He is ever Accepting of repentance.’ [The Noble Qur’an, 110:1-3]

Patience and forbearance go a long way. The Conquest of Makkah is an inspirational example of how relying on Allah and remaining steadfast will only bring great success. Allah says in Surah Al-A’raf, ‘And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.’ [The Noble Qur’an 1:128]

Be a part of preserving our history and spreading Islam

The Prophet (saw) said, ‘By Allah, that Allah guides a man through you is better for you than a herd of expensive red camels.’ [Bukhari]

Muslim Hands’ work is not limited to providing aid to our brothers and sisters in need around the world. We also pride ourselves in our work to preserve and spread Islam. We are committed to supporting various religious projects, including building Masjids and supporting religious education worldwide. We also strive to preserve historic Islamic sites such as The Great Mosque of Djenne in Mali and the Noble Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. Follow in the footsteps of the Sahabah (ra) and be a part of preserving our Islamic heritage.