KCSE 2014 IRE Paper 1 Questions with Marking Scheme

QUESTIONS

1.                          
   1. Outline six reasons why the Quran is regarded as the final revelation.(6 marks)
   2. Why was the Quran not compiled in to a book formi (Mushaf) during the lifetime of the Prophet (Pb.u.h)?(6 marks)
   3. State eight characteristics of Makkan Surahs.(8 marks)
2.                            
   1. State four teachings of Surah An-Nasr.(8 marks)
   2. Give seven conditions that must be fulfilled by a translator of the Quran.(7 marks)
   3. State five modes of Wahyi.(5 marks)
3.                                  
   1. Describe four ways through which hadith evolved.(8 marks)
   2. Discuss the contribution of hadith to Islamic culture(7 marks)
   3. The Prophet (P.b.u.h) said "I and the person who looks after an orphan will be in paradise like this", putting his index and middle fingers together. In reference to the above hadith. explain five ways through which Muslims can care for orphans.(5 marks)
4.                              
   1. Differentiate between fardh and Sunnah saum.(8 marks)
   2. Explain four effects of swalat on a Muslim.(8 marks)
   3. Identify four obligatory acts in the performance of wudhu.(4 marks)
5.                    
   1. What are the functions of a Kadhi?(8 marks)
   2. State four contributions of Imam Abu Hanifa to the development of Fiqh.(4 marks)
   3. Outline the acts that are forbidden for a pilgrim in the state of thram. (8 marks)
6.                            
   1. Discuss the significance of the belief in Qadha and Qadar in the life of a Muslim.(8 marks)
   2. State the characteristics of the Ulul Azm prophets.(5 marks)
   3. State the functions of an Imam.(7 marks)

MARKING SCHEME

1.                      
   1. Reasons why the Quran is regarded as the final revelation.
      • It was revealed to the last of all Prophets i.e. Prophet Muhammad last Ummah (Q 33:40).
      • It’s message is meant for the whole mankind in contrast to other revelations that were community specific.
      • t’s teachings are applicable at all times and situations hence no necessity for any new revelation.
      • Allah has promised to Protect it until the day of judgement (Q 15:9).
      • The Quran contains teachings of the other earlier revealed books.
      • The Prophet (p.b.u.h) proclaimed that the message of the Quran is final. (6 x 1 = 6 marks)
   2. The Quran was not compiled into one book (Mushaf) during the lifetime of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) because,
      • As long as the Prophet (p.b.u.h) was alive, there was a possibility of fresh revelation of the Quran.
      • Religious and legal issues or disputes were referred to the Prophet (p.b.u.h) for arbitration and guidance, thus removing the need for compilation of the Quran.
      • There was a little time to write a book as Muslims were actively involved in defending themselves against attacks from non believers and in preaching Islam.
      • Those who could read and write were few, thus writing a Mushaf was not a priority.
      • There were no disputes or controversy with regard to the pronunciation of the Quran during the prophet’s time.
      • The fear of loss of the Quran did not arise as majority of the companions had memorized it, were alive and so was the Prophet (p.b.u.h).
      • The last revelation occurred shortly before the death of the prophet, thus leaving little room for compilation.
      • Due to the fact that some verses were abrogated in the course of the revelation and therefore flexibility needed to be maintained.
      • The verses and chapters were not always revealed in their final order.(6 x 1 = 6 marks)
   3. Characteristics of Makkan Surahs.
      • The Makkan Surah invite the people by addressing them “O people” given that majority of the audience had not embraced Islam.
      • Makkan Surah were mostly short and concise; they were easy to remember and meant to attract the attentions of the listeners to the message of Islam.
      • Makkan Surah are centered on fundamental doctrines of Tawhid (oneness of God), the day of judgement, reward and punishment.
      • Allah uses harsh and strong language to convey the message of the stubborn Quraish.
      • Verses of the Quran in Makkan Surah are often repetitive.
      • Makkan chapters are full of warnings.
      • Stories or narratives of previous prophets and their communities are discussed in Makkan Surah.
      • Description of hell fire and severe punishments are common in Makkan Surah. Muslims are often urged to be patient in the face of opposition against their faith.
      • Those who accept the call are promised great rewards by Allah.
      • Rhyme-Prose is more common in Makkan Surah. Such a technique had a lasting impact on the targeted audience some of whom converted to Islam
      • from hearing it. (Umar’s conversion after listening to Surah Twaha).
      • Makkah Surahs emphasize on tawhid.
      • Denounce idol worship.
      • Makkah Surah require performance of Sijdaful tilawa.(8 x 1 = 8 marks)
2.                  
   1. Teachings of Surah An-Nasr.
      • The Surah indicated the approaching death of the Prophet (p.b.u.h).
      • It directs the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and the Muslims to give thanks and praise to Allah for the victory and other achievements in life.
      • Man should repent and seek for forgiveness from Allah.
      • Allah is all forgiving all merciful.
      • The Surah indicated the end of the mission of Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h). It predicted the victory of Islam over all other religions, as a large number of people were embracing Islam following the conquest of Makka.(4 x 2 = 8 marks)
   2. Conditions to be fulfilled by a translator of the Quran.
      • Should have a good mastery of Arabic language, both grammar and a broad Arabic vocabulary.
      • Must have a good understanding of the language he/she is translating into.
      • Must have mastery of the science of the Quran (Ulumul Quran) including legal verses, Asbab Nuzul e.t.c.
      • Should have a deep understanding of Islamic religion including such branches as hadith, fiqh, seera, among others.
      • One should be sincere in translation work with the sole aim of earning the pleasure of Allah and not for material gains or to discredit Islam.
      • One should refrain from extensive use of his/her personal opinion.
      • The translator must be a Muslim (Mukalaf).
      • The translator must be just, of high integrity and pious.
      • Translator must make reference to the knowledge of sahabas and Tabiun before translation.(7 x 1 = 7 marks)
   3. Modes of Wahyi.
      • Through the agency of an angel (Q 42:51).
      • Speaking from behind a veil (of light) e.g. Prophet Musa at Mt Sinai.
      • Speaking directly to Allah as exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) during Isra wal Miraj.
      • Through true dreams e.g. Prophet Ibrahim (Q 37:102).
      • Through inspiration (Ilham) or intuition in the form of a clear idea cast in the heart of the recipient. (Q 42:51-52)(Q 28:7).
      • Revelation in the form of ringing bells. eg. The Prohet (p.b.u.h.) said ‘there are times when I hear something like the chiming of bells and this mode of Wahyi is the hardest on me. After that when the chime sequence ends, that which has been said by the sound seems to have been committed to my memory.
        And there are times when the angel appears before me in the shape of a man (Sahih al Bukhari).
      • Instinctual guidance to animals e.g. bees (Q 16:68-69).(5 x 1 = 5 marks)
3.                      
   1. Ways through which hadith evolved.
      • Hadith evolved in situations where a question or problem was referred to the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and there was no guidance from the Quran. In such a case
      • Allah would want the prophet to give an answer tot he matter or a directive and hence such directives became hadith.
      • As an interpretation of the Quran. Some aspects of Quranic messages are concise and brief and the Prophet (p.b.u.h) had to elaborate further on such
      • matters such as prayers, Zakat e.t.c.
      • As a demand of circumstances. There were situations where Muslims did not know what to do and the prophet provided the required guidance e.g. the decision to fight the enemies outside Madina in the battle of Badr. Through the prophet’s own initiative. Allah gave the Prophet (p.b.u.h) the authority to legislate on some matters of faith. Such laws given by the prophet became the second primary source of law and were recorded as hadith (Q 53:3, 3:32, 59:7). (4 x 2 = 8 marks)
        (must be explained)
   2. Contribution of hadih to Islamic culture.
      • Contributed to the development of Arabic language, especially new vocabularies of religious significance such as Sunnah, qaul, taqrir e.t.c.
      • It contributed to the development of Islamic law as it forms the most authoritative source after Quran.
      • Led tot he emergence of Ulumul hadith (science of hadith) and Muhaddithun as specialist of this branch of knowledge.
      • It influenced Muslims’ code of behaviour emulating the model of the Prophet (p.b.u.h).
      • It contributed towards the emergence of new ways of observing ceremonies and festivals such as nikah, aqiqah e.t.c.
      • Influenced the growth of centres of learning/education where hadith was taught. Hadith re-defined concepts of aura, personal hygiene, ritual purity and dietary regulations. Most of these regulations and norms are contrary to prevailing cultures.
      • It led tot he development of press, publication and writing of books on hadith such as Sahih Al-Bukhari.
      • Acceptance of the genuine sayings and practices of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) became part and parcel of the requirements of faith.(7 x 1 = 7 marks)
   3. Ways through which Muslims can care for orphans.
      • Through establishment of endowments (waqf) and orphanages.
      • By feeding and clothing them.
      • By avoiding misappropriation of properties for the orphans.
      • Investing their properties on profitable enterprises.
      • Returning property held in trust to orphans when they attain the age of puberty and discretion (bulugh).
      • Establishment of Muslim charities and community based organizations caring for orphans.
      • By supporting them in the quest to seek for education and providing scholarship to them.(5 x 1 = 5 marks)
4.                            
   1. Differences between Fardh and Sunnah saum.
      • There is only one obligatory fast in the month of Ramadhan while recommended fasts are many.
      • Avoiding obligatory fast without justifiable reason is blameworthy and sinful while omitting Sunnah fast attracts no sins nor punishment from Allah.
      • A Muslim must compensate for missed fardh fast in form of Fidya or Qadha while there is no fidya or qadha for missed Sunnah fast.
      • Fasting in Ramadhan lapses for 29 - 30 consecutive days while it is recommended to fast a day and break the other in Sunnah fast.
      • Observance of the obligatory fast is done during the month of Ramadhan while Sunnah fasts are scattered throughout the other eleven months.
      • Fardh fast begins and ends with the sighting of the moon while Sunnah fast is not days or months specific.
      • End of obligatory fast is marked with the celebration of Eid-ul-fitr while Sunnah fast require no specific festival.
      • The prescription of fardh fast is expressly mentioned in the Quran while Sunnah fasts are modelled in the practice of the Prophet (p.b.u.h).(4 x 2 = 8 marks)
   2. Effects of Salat in a Muslim.
      • It makes a believer to constantly remember Allah given that one has to pray five times a day.
      • If properly observed, Salat safeguards a Muslim from committing sins and evil deeds.
      • It makes a Muslim acquire a sense of punctuality and obedience in life. It distinguishes a Muslim from a non believer.
      • It enables a Muslim to fulfil a fundamental pillar of Islam.
      • It helps a Muslim to maintain a high level of personal hygiene and cleanliness. When observed in congregation, prayers inculcate a sens
      • of brotherhood, social solidarity and belonging among Muslims.
      • It purifies the heart, develops the mind and cultivates conscience.
      • It demonstrates ones loyalty and steadfastness in Allah.
      • Salat enhances a Muslim’s spiritual and physical wellbeing.(4 x 2 = 8 marks)
   3. Obligatory acts in the performance of Wudhu.
      • Washing the face.
      • Washing the two hands to the elbows.
      • Wiping the head with wet hands.
      • Washing the two legs.(4 x 1 = 4 marks)
5.                              
   1. Functions of a Kadhi.
      • He listens to cases and disputes involving Muslim parties and determines them on the basis of Shariah provision e.g. marriage, divorce and child custody. He determines cases involving crimes (hudud), (tazir) and administers appropriate punishment.
      • He determines cases involving inheritance i.e. rightful heirs and their shares. He acts as a guardian for women who have no wali in marriage.
      • He presides over waqf properties and oversees their administration.
      • He acts as the administrator or trustee of property especially if other relatives of the deceased are disqualified.
      • Works in liaison with other judicial courts, state and state departments. The Kadhi is consulted by the government on Islamic legal issues.
      • He is regarded as an authoritative figure by Muslims as they seek for his guidance on matters related to Islam.
      • He represents Muslims in National functions.
      • Under certain jurisdiction, the Kadhi is empowered to issues marriage and divorce certificates.(8 x 1 = 8 marks)
   2. Contributions of Imam Abu Hanifa to the development of Fiqh.
      • He established a committee of scholars from among his best students charged with the task of compiling fiqh-based questions and the answers he gave under different heading such a taharah, salat e.t.c.
      • He codified fiqh into relevant chapters for easy reference.
      • He devised a series of principles from which to derive the rules of fiqh which came to be known as Usul-al-fiqh.
      • He accepted the sources of law as being the Quran, Sunnah, Ijma ad Qiyas. He developed the principle of Istihsan (provision made in public interest) as a subsidiary source of Shariah.
      • He taught many students such as Imam Muhammad and Abu Yusuf
      • as-Shaybatic, who commented upon and expounded further on the jurisprudence of their teacher.
      • He founded the Hanafi school of law-the first of its kind in the Muslim world. He tried to make fiqh as easy and applicable as possible to day-today life. He divided his fiqh into two categories, namely those dealing with canonical laws that were fixed and those dealing with non canonical laws (i.e. dealing with customary practices that could change with time and place).
      • He is the author of al-Musnad - a major work on hadith that deals with aspects of jurisprudence and ibadah.(4 x 1 = 4 marks)
   3. Acts forbidden for a pilgrim in the State of Ihram
      • Wearing sewn clothes for men.
      • Having sexual intercourse with spouse.
      • Wearing of perfume and applying cosmetics.
      • Uprooting green vegetable.
      • Hunting animals (Q 5:95-96).
      • Getting married or accepting a marriage proposal.
      • Anointing the hair.
      • Trimming or shaving the hair.
      • Cutting nails.(8 x 1 = 8 marks)
6.                                    
   1. Significance of the belief in Qadha and Qadar in the life of a Muslim.
      • Fosters in a Muslim contentment and satisfaction that it’s Allah who created him and gave him what he has.
      • Develops deep trust and devotion to Allah among Muslims.
      • Creates a desire in a Muslim to keep away from worldly pleasures and to concentrate on pleasing Allah.
      • A Muslim who believes in Qadar keeps away from envy and greed.
      • Encourages Muslims to remain steadfast on the path of truth.
      • Develops patience in Muslims and enables them endure suffering and hardships.
      • Muslims strive to do good and avoid evil as each will be held accountable for their own actions.
      • Belief in Qadar develops a Muslim’s faith in the divine will and encourages them to seek Allah’s guidance in all their endeavours.(4 x 2 = 8 marks)
   2. Characteristics of the Ulul Azm prophets.
      • They all came from distinguished families mentioned in Quran.
      • All of them are both nabii (prophet) and rasul (messenger).
      • All of them received message for their respective communities in the form of divine scriptures or books, with an exception of Prophet Nuh who was
      • described as a rasul by Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h).
      • They possessed strong will and perseverance in the course of their mission (Q 46:35).
      • They were given some exceptional qualities or talents or superiority in some aspects by Allah (Q 2:253, 17:55).
      • They all possessed divine law (Q 42:13).
      • Allah protected them from immoral acts, physical defects and committing of deliberate mistakes.
      • Allah made them successful in their mission through miracles.(5 x 1 = 5 marks)
   3. Functions of an Imam.
      • He is the leader of Muslims in congregational prayers.
      • He supervises / oversees Islamic rites such as marriage / Nikah, Aqiqah. He conducts sermons / Khutba especially during Friday prayers.
      • Teaches Muslims especially children on the fundamentals of religion. Arbitrates and reconciles disputing Muslims.
      • Acts as a role model for the youth and the society as a whole.
      • Authenticates, officiates and approves official documents as per the law e.g. birth certificates, passport applications, bursary forms, bank account opening requests e.t.c.
      • Fills the vacuum in the absence of political leadership.
      • Acts as a witness in transactions and business dealings.
      • Conducts funerals for deceased Muslims.
      • Engages in daawa activities and also defends Islam and Muslims when need arises.(7 x 1 = 7 marks)