None of these essays have been edited in any way, except some correction of spelling and a tweek or two of grammar. Paragraphing and sentence structure are exactly as they were in the exam.

Question 1: We identified three main "schools" or orientations of Muslim theology. Among these, Ash'arism is said to constitute the middle road. Explain what this means and whether or not you think it is a valid depiction.

Question 2: Explain the relationship between ijtihad, taqlid, the schools of law and scripture (i.e., Qur'an and Sunnah).

Question 3: Sufism has been known to generate much controvery. On what basis (or bases) do those who generally criticize or reject Sufism do so?