Observation

This question demanded that the candidates explain what Suratul-Fātihah stands for in terms of significance and lessons. The question seemed confusing to many candidates as they did not consider the Surah as having seven verses. Those of them that were cognisant of the inclusion of Basmalah as one of the verses got the question right and scored high marks.

Many who failed to recognise Basmalah as verse one of Suratul-Fātihah got it completely wrong. Such candidates were those who mistook verses four and five for verses five and six. Their explanation therefore did not correspond to the required plausible answers. The said verses can be interpreted to connote the need for profession of one’s faith in Allah, the only one without associates, and the need for supplication for direct guidance to the right path.