Question 5
-
Outline four qualities and four functions of the Pre-Islamic Shaykh.
Observation
This appeared the most difficult question to many of the candidates. The question technically tested the candidates’ knowledge on thequalities and functions of pre-Islamic Shaykh. Most candidates got this question wrong, they mistakenly took the shaykh to be shaykh in Islam instead of the leader of the Arabs in the decentralized political system before Islam. Majority of the candidates performed below average. Candidates were expected to mention the following points:
Qualities of the Shaykh.
The Shaykh must be
- courageous;
- loyal;
- wise;
- elderly;
- noble;
- accessible;
- wealthy;
- first among equals;
- generous/hospitable;
- persevering/enduring;
- honest/just;
- knowledgeable and experience;
Functions of the Shaykh.
- Dispute resolution.
- Clan protection.
- Sharing of war booty.
- Negotiation on behalf of the clan.
- Acceptance of tribal opinion.
- Seeking advice from Majlis.
- Offering protection to everyone in the tribe.
- Taking custody of tribal properties.
- Giving directives during battles.