JAMB UTME - Islamic Religious Studies - 2023

According to the Quran, monotheism is not a form of shirk. Shirk refers to the act of associating partners or idols with Allah, which is considered a grave sin in Islamic belief.
Monotheism, on the other hand, is the belief in and worship of only one God. It is the fundamental concept in Islam, and Muslims are taught to believe in the oneness of God, known as "Tawheed."
The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of monotheism and condemns the act of associating partners with Allah. This concept is summarized in the declaration of faith in Islam, the Shahada, which states, "There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger."
In contrast to monotheism, atheism is the belief that there is no God or higher power. While atheism does not involve associating partners with Allah, it goes against the central pillar of Islamic belief in the existence of a single God.
Therefore, the correct answer is atheism as it stands in opposition to the belief in the oneness of God and does not involve associating partners with Allah.

The reign of Caliph Uthman b. Affan is known for several key contributions during his time as the Caliph of the Islamic state. One of the notable achievements was **standardization of the Qur'an**. During this time, the Islamic community was expanding rapidly, and there were multiple versions of the Qur'an in different dialects. This led to confusion and inconsistencies in the recitation and interpretation of the holy book. Caliph Uthman took the initiative to establish a standardized version of the Qur'an to ensure uniformity and accuracy in its recitation. To accomplish this, Caliph Uthman appointed a committee of scholars, including prominent companions of the Prophet Muhammad, to compile an official version of the Qur'an. They used the original written materials and the oral traditions passed down from the Prophet. The compiled version, known as the Uthmanic codex, formed the basis for the standardization of the Qur'an that we have today. This standardization had significant implications. It allowed for **consistency in the teachings of Islam** across different regions, ensuring that everyone was reciting and understanding the same message. It also helped in preserving the integrity of the Qur'an, protecting it from any alterations or variations. The standardization of the Qur'an during the reign of Caliph Uthman played a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of the Islamic faith. It helped establish a solid foundation for the community and ensured the Quranic teachings were accurately conveyed from one generation to another.

A Juz' of the Quran is a section that the Quran is divided into for ease of recitation and memorization. It is important to note that a Juz' is further subdivided into smaller parts. Let's explain each of the subdivisions:
1. Hizb: This is the first subdivision of a Juz'. A Juz' is divided into two equal parts, and each half is called a Hizb. So, a Juz' consists of two Hizbs. The purpose of this subdivision is to facilitate recitation in smaller portions.
2. Manzil: This is not a subdivision of a Juz'. It refers to a larger division of the Quran that divides it into seven equal parts. Each Manzil is about one-thirtieth of the Quran, enabling its recitation over a span of one week.
3. Rub': This is another subdivision of the Quran, but it is not related to the Juz'. A Rub' represents one-fourth of a Hizb. So, a Hizb consists of four Rubs. It is mainly used to break down the Hizb into smaller portions for easier memorization.
4. Nisf: This is not a subdivision of a Juz'. Nisf means "half" in Arabic, but it is not used to divide a Juz'. Instead, a Juz' is divided into two Hizbs.
To summarize, the correct answer is Manzil. While a Juz' is subdivided into Hizbs, Rubs, and halves (Nisf), Manzil is not a subdivision of a Juz', but rather a larger division of the Quran.

In the Qur'an, there are certain phrases or verses that are given special significance and are repeated frequently. These phrases are known as ad-Dhikr. Ad-Dhikr helps to emphasize and reinforce important concepts in the Qur'an. It serves as a reminder and a way to keep certain teachings and principles fresh in the minds of the believers.
Similarly, in the Qur'an, there is a chapter that is considered to be the essence and summary of the entire book. This chapter is known as Ummul-Kitab, which translates to "the Mother of the Book" or "the Opening". Ummul-Kitab, also known as Al-Fatihah, is the first chapter of the Qur'an and it holds great significance.
So, to answer the question, the relationship between ad-Dhikr and the Qur'an is similar to the relationship between Ummul-Kitab and Al-Fatihah. Ad-Dhikr is a general term referring to various repeated phrases in the Qur'an, while Ummul-Kitab specifically refers to the first chapter, Al-Fatihah, which is considered the summary and essence of the entire Qur'an.
Therefore, the answer is Fatihah.

The main means of transport used by the Arabs in the desert was the camel.
Camels are perfectly designed for living and traveling in desert environments. They have some unique adaptations that make them the ideal choice for traversing the desert.
One of the key reasons for using camels is their ability to conserve water. Camels are able to go for long periods of time without drinking water, which is a crucial factor in arid desert conditions where water sources may be scarce. They can survive for several days without drinking, and when they do have access to water, they can drink up to 30 gallons at once to replenish their reserves.
Another advantage of camels is their ability to tolerate extreme temperatures. They have a thick coat that helps to insulate them from the heat during the day and keep them warm at night. Their broad feet distribute their weight over a larger surface area, preventing them from sinking into the soft desert sand.
Camels also have a unique way of navigating through the desert. They have a strong sense of direction and can remember their travel routes even after long periods of time. They can use landmarks and the position of the sun and stars to find their way and avoid getting lost.
In addition to their physical adaptations, camels have been an integral part of Arab culture for centuries. They have been domesticated and trained to carry heavy loads, making them valuable for transporting goods and people across the vast desert landscapes. They are also well-suited for long journeys, as they are resilient and can withstand the challenges of desert travel.
Therefore, the camel was the primary means of transportation for the Arabs in the desert due to its adaptability to the harsh desert environment, its water conservation capabilities, its heat tolerance, its navigation skills, and its cultural significance in Arab society.

The state into which the pilgrim enters before the time of Hajj is Ihram. Ihram is a sacred state that pilgrims enter into before performing Hajj or Umrah. It is a state of purity and devotion that involves specific rituals and restrictions.
When a pilgrim enters Ihram, they must dress in prescribed clothing, which consists of two unsewn white sheets for men and modest clothing for women. This simple attire symbolizes equality and unity among all pilgrims, regardless of their social status or wealth.
Entering into Ihram involves making intentions and pronouncing the Talbiyyah, which is a declaration of a pilgrim's dedication and intention to perform Hajj or Umrah. The Talbiyyah is recited throughout the pilgrimage as a constant reminder of the purpose and devotion of the pilgrim.
In this state of Ihram, certain restrictions are imposed. Pilgrims must abstain from activities such as cutting hair or nails, using perfumes or scented products, engaging in any form of sexual activity, and arguing or engaging in any form of violence. These restrictions are meant to shift the pilgrim's focus solely on the spiritual journey and to promote a peaceful and harmonious environment among fellow pilgrims.
By entering into Ihram, the pilgrim embraces a state of humbleness, purity, and dedication to their religious obligations. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness and significance of the pilgrimage and helps pilgrims to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual experience of Hajj or Umrah.

The type of Ghusl performed by a new convert to Islam is Dhukil-al-Islam.
Ghusl is a ritual purification in Islam, which involves washing the entire body in a specific manner. There are multiple types of Ghusl, each performed for different reasons.
Janabah is the type of Ghusl performed after sexual intercourse or ejaculation. Nifas is the type of Ghusl performed by women after childbirth or the termination of pregnancy. Haydah is the type of Ghusl performed by women during menstruation.
However, when a person converts to Islam, they need to perform a special type of Ghusl known as Dhukil-al-Islam. This Ghusl is performed to mark their transition into the Islamic faith. It symbolizes purification from their previous beliefs and practices, and their acceptance and commitment to follow the teachings of Islam.
During Dhukil-al-Islam Ghusl, the convert should wash their entire body with the intention of purifying themselves and embracing their new faith. They should ensure that water reaches every part of their body, from head to toe. It is important to perform this Ghusl with sincerity and reverence, understanding the significance of the journey they are embarking upon.
In summary, when a new convert enters Islam, they should perform the Dhukil-al-Islam Ghusl to purify themselves and signify their commitment to the Islamic faith.

Imam an-Nasai spent his days in Khurasan. Khurasan is a historical region located in northeastern Iran, parts of Afghanistan, and Central Asia. It was a very important cultural and intellectual center during Imam an-Nasai's time.
Imam an-Nasai was a renowned scholar and had a deep knowledge of the hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). He spent a significant amount of time in Khurasan, studying, collecting, and teaching hadiths.
Khurasan was known for its vibrant scholarly community and was home to many prominent Islamic scholars. Imam an-Nasai benefited from the rich intellectual environment of Khurasan and devoted himself to the study and preservation of the hadiths.
His dedication in collecting hadiths led to the compilation of a famous book called "Sunan an-Nasai," which is one of the six most authentic books of hadiths in Sunni Islam. This book contains a collection of hadiths along with their chains of narrators, making it a valuable resource for scholars and students of Islamic knowledge.
In conclusion, Imam an-Nasai spent his days in Khurasan, where he immersed himself in the study of hadiths and contributed greatly to the preservation of Islamic knowledge through his compilation of "Sunan an-Nasai."

Ashura, Qada', Tasu'a, and Sittah Shawwal are all types of voluntary fasting that can be observed by Muslims. However, there is one option among the given choices that does not fall under the category of voluntary fasting.
Ashura is the voluntary fasting observed on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is a recommended fast as it holds significance in Islamic history, such as the day when Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh. It is not obligatory, but highly recommended.
Qada' refers to making up for any obligatory fast that was missed due to a valid reason, such as illness or travel. In this case, it is not a voluntary fasting, but rather a required act to compensate for the missed fast.
Tasu'a is the voluntary fasting observed on the 9th day of Muharram. It is an optional fast, mostly practiced by Shia Muslims in commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the battle of Karbala.
Sittah Shawwal refers to the voluntary fasting observed for six consecutive days in the month of Shawwal, immediately after the conclusion of Ramadan. It is a recommended act and is encouraged as a way to gain more rewards after the compulsory fasting of Ramadan.
Therefore, among the given options, Qada' is the one that does not fall under voluntary fasting. Qada' fasting is a necessary requirement to make up for any missed obligatory fasts, whereas the others are recommended but not obligatory.

According to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the greatest form of Jihad is suppressing one's selfish desires.
Jihad can be understood as a struggle or effort to do what is right and to fulfill one's obligations as a Muslim. While the term is often associated with physical warfare, it encompasses various aspects of life, including personal and inner struggles.
In this context, suppressing one's selfish desires refers to the continuous effort to overcome one's own ego and control our base instincts and negative emotions. It involves striving to be selfless, just, and compassionate towards others, even when it goes against our personal desires or interests.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of this form of Jihad because it requires a great deal of self-discipline, patience, and sacrifice. It is an ongoing struggle to align our actions with the teachings of Islam and to behave in a way that benefits others and pleases Allah.
While other options such as writing religious books, performing Hajj and Umrah, and even waging war in the name of Allah can all be virtuous acts in their own right, suppressing one's selfish desires takes precedence because it addresses the core of our character and helps us become better individuals. By doing so, we contribute positively to society and ensure the well-being of ourselves and others.
In summary, the greatest form of Jihad, according to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is suppressing one's selfish desires. It requires continuous effort to overcome our own ego and behave selflessly, justly, and compassionately towards others.

The fifty Muslim archers at the battle of Uhud were instructed to stay in their position and not leave their post. This means that they were told to maintain their position and not move or abandon their post under any circumstances. By doing so, they were expected to provide protection and cover for the Muslim army against any potential attacks from the rear.
Their role as archers was crucial to the overall strategy of the battle. They were strategically positioned on a hill behind the main Muslim army, serving as a defensive line against the enemy cavalry. It was essential for them to maintain their position in order to ensure the protection of the Muslim forces.
However, during the course of the battle, when the Muslim army initially gained the upper hand, a portion of the archers saw a chance to gain war booty and left their post against the orders they were given. This opened up a gap in the defensive line, allowing the enemy cavalry to attack from the rear.
As a result, this breach in the defensive line proved to be a turning point in the battle, leading to a setback for the Muslim forces and ultimately their defeat. The lesson learned from this incident is the importance of following instructions and maintaining discipline in the face of temptation.

An Hadith is referred to as da'if because it has defects in its isnad and matn. The isnad refers to the chain of transmitters, while the matn refers to the content of the Hadith. These defects can include missing or unreliable transmitters, contradictions within the chain of transmitters, or inconsistencies in the content of the Hadith. It is important to note that a da'if Hadith is not always completely unreliable. Sometimes, it may still have some supporting evidence or it may be partially reliable. However, because of the presence of these defects, scholars consider da'if Hadiths to be less reliable compared to other categories of Hadiths. It is always recommended to rely on Hadiths that are classified as sahih or hasan as they are considered to be more authentic and reliable. On the other hand, a fabricated tradition is a completely false Hadith which has been intentionally invented and has no basis in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). These fabricated Hadiths are not considered reliable at all and should be avoided. In summary, a da'if Hadith is referred to as such because it has defects in its chain of transmitters and its content. While it may still have some supporting evidence, it is considered to be less reliable compared to sahih or hasan Hadiths. Fabricated traditions, on the other hand, are completely false and should not be relied upon.

Talaq al-Bida'ah is a type of divorce that takes effect when it is pronounced in a specific manner. To understand this, let's break down the conditions: 1. Firstly, the divorce should be pronounced when the wife is still in her marital home. This means that the husband cannot divorce his wife when she is away from their shared residence. 2. Secondly, the divorce should be pronounced when the wife is purified of her menses. In Islamic law, a divorce cannot be validly pronounced during a woman's menstrual cycle. It can only be done when she is in a period of purity. 3. Thirdly, the divorce can be either pronounced verbally or in writing. This means that the husband can say the words of divorce out loud or write them down and communicate it to his wife. 4. Finally, Talaq al-Bida'ah takes effect when the husband pronounces the divorce three times simultaneously. This means that he has to state divorce words such as "I divorce you" three times in one instance. It is important for the husband to utter the divorce words only once, but with the understanding that it counts as three divorces. It is essential to understand that Talaq al-Bida'ah, also known as triple divorce or instant divorce, is considered highly discouraged in Islam. Scholars emphasize the importance of reconciliation and exhausting other means of resolving marital disputes before resorting to this form of divorce.

In the context of Islamic beliefs, Al-Akhirah refers to the concept of the hereafter or the life after death. It encompasses the belief that there is a continuation of life after we die and that our actions in this world will be judged and rewarded or punished accordingly.
Similarly, Al-Qiyammah is a term used in Islam to refer to the concept of Resurrection. It signifies the belief that after death, there will be a day when all human beings will be resurrected and brought back to life in order to face judgment for their deeds.
So, the correct answer to the relationship between Al-Qiyammah and Al-Akhirah would be Resurrection. Al-Qiyammah is the event of resurrection, which is a part of the overall concept of Al-Akhirah or the hereafter in Islam.

The Tahajjud prayer is observed between the night prayer of Isha and the dawn prayer of Fajr. It is a voluntary prayer that is performed during the late hours of the night. After offering the Isha prayer, which is performed after sunset, there is a window of time during the night when Tahajjud can be performed. This time varies depending on the region and the time of year. During this blessed time, Muslims wake up from their sleep in the middle of the night to engage in additional prayers and to seek closeness to Allah. The Tahajjud prayer is highly recommended as it allows individuals to have a personal and intimate connection with their Creator. In conclusion, the Tahajjud prayer is observed between the night prayer of Isha and the dawn prayer of Fajr. It is a time when Muslims wake up during the night to engage in additional prayers and seek closeness to Allah.

The Prophet Muhammad lost his wife Khadijah in the year 619 C.E.

Khadijah was the first wife of Prophet Muhammad and she played a significant role in supporting him in the early years of his prophethood. She was a successful businesswoman and a strong source of emotional and financial support for the Prophet.

In the year 619, which is known as the "Year of Sorrow," both Khadijah and the Prophet's uncle, Abu Talib, passed away. Their deaths were a great loss for the Prophet Muhammad, as they were his main sources of support and protection during that time.

Therefore, the correct answer is 619 C.E.

The first pledge of Aqabah was signed in 621 C.E.
The pledge of Aqabah was a significant event in the early history of Islam. It took place in the city of Aqabah, near Mecca, in the year 621 C.E. This event marked a turning point in the spread of Islam and the relationship between the Muslim community and the people of Medina.
During this pledge, a group of twelve people from the city of Medina, known as the Ansar or supporters, met with the Prophet Muhammad and made a commitment to support and protect him and his followers. This pledge showed their faith in Islam and their willingness to join the growing Muslim community.
The significance of this pledge was that it provided a safe haven for Muslims who were facing persecution in Mecca. It also laid the foundation for the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina, which would later become the capital of the Islamic state.
In summary, the first pledge of Aqabah was signed in the year 621 C.E. It was a crucial event in the history of Islam, signifying the support and protection of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers by the people of Medina. This pledge played a vital role in the expansion and establishment of the Muslim community.

In Hadith 16, "La Taghdab" means "do not get angry". It is an Arabic phrase that carries a simple and important message in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised his followers to control their anger and not let it overcome them. Anger is a natural human emotion, but it can often lead to negative consequences and harm both to oneself and others. Getting angry can cloud our judgment, lead us to say hurtful words, and may even result in physical aggression. Therefore, Islam encourages individuals to restrain their anger and respond to difficult situations with patience and understanding. This teaching of "La Taghdab" reminds us to be mindful of our emotions, to avoid reacting impulsively when we feel angry. Instead, we should take a step back, reflect on the situation, and respond in a calm and respectful manner. By doing so, we can maintain harmony in our relationships, contribute to a peaceful society, and earn the pleasure of Allah. It is important to note that anger itself is not condemned in Islam. There are times when anger can be justified, such as when witnessing injustice or oppression. However, even in such cases, Islam advises individuals to channel their anger in a constructive and productive way, seeking to rectify the situation without causing harm. In summary, "La Taghdab" means "do not get angry" in the context of Hadith 16. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to control their anger, respond to challenging situations with patience, and strive for peace and harmony in their interactions with others.

The Suratud-Duha in the Quran consists of a total of 11 verses. If we exclude the last verse from this surah, we are left with the remaining verses. Therefore, without the last verse, the remaining verses are 10.
To summarize: - Suratud-Duha has 11 verses in total. - If we remove the last verse from this surah, we are left with the remaining verses. - Hence, without the last verse, the remaining verses in Suratud-Duha are 10.
Therefore, the correct answer is 10.

Fajr = 2
Jummah = 2
Asr = 4
Magrib = 3
Ishai = 4

The first Mu'adh-Dhin in Islam was Bilal. He holds a significant place in Islamic history as he was chosen by Prophet Muhammad himself to be the one to call the Muslims to prayer. Bilal was known for his beautiful voice and his unwavering faith. He was a former slave who embraced Islam and became one of the Prophet's most trusted companions.
Bilal's selection as the first Mu'adh-Dhin highlights the value and importance Islam places on equality. It shattered the social norms of the time, where a former slave was given such a prestigious role in the community. Prophet Muhammad recognized Bilal's devotion and piety, proving that in Islam, one's worth is not determined by their social status or background, but by their faith and character.
Bilal's call to prayer became an iconic symbol of Islam. His voice echoed through the streets of Madinah, inviting people to worship Allah and reminding them of their obligations as Muslims. The adhan, or call to prayer, continues to be a vital part of Islamic practice worldwide to this day.
In a simple summary, the first Mu'adh-Dhin in Islam was Bilal. He was chosen by Prophet Muhammad for his faith and beautiful voice, regardless of his former slave status. This emphasizes the Islamic principle of equality and showcases the importance of the call to prayer in the religion.