JAMB UTME - Islamic Religious Studies - 2023

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.

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.

The idol that was not a part of Jahilliyyah was al-Jibl.
Jahilliyyah refers to the pre-Islamic Arabian period of ignorance and idol worship. During this time, the Arabian Peninsula was inhabited by various tribes who venerated idols and practiced polytheism. They believed that these idols were intermediaries between them and the gods.
Out of the four options given, al-Jibl is the only idol that does not have a direct connection to the pre-Islamic period of Jahilliyyah. The other three idols, namely al-Manat, al-Uzzah, and al-Lat, were revered and worshipped by the Arabian tribes during that time.
One important thing to note is that when Islam emerged, the Prophet Muhammad preached against idol worship and encouraged monotheism. He declared that these idols, including al-Manat, al-Uzzah, and al-Lat, were false deities and had no power or influence.
By rejecting idol worship and promoting monotheism, Islam brought an end to the era of Jahilliyyah and established a new era of faith in one God, Allah.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

In Quran 24:32, the injunction is that Muslims are encouraged to marry righteous partners. This means that it is recommended for Muslims to seek spouses who are pious, morally upright, and have good character. This verse does not command Muslims to marry more than one wife nor does it discourage polygamy. Its main emphasis is on the importance of choosing a spouse who is committed to their faith and leads a righteous life. Therefore, the correct option is that Quran 24:32 enjoins Muslims to marry righteous partners.

Ijma' as a secondary source of Islamic law refers to the consensus opinion of scholars. It means that when scholars unanimously agree on a particular ruling or interpretation of Islamic law, it becomes a reliable source for deriving legal rulings. This consensus is based on the collective wisdom and knowledge of the scholars who specialize in Islamic jurisprudence. Ijma' provides stability and continuity in interpreting and applying Islamic law as it ensures that the understanding of the religion remains consistent over time. It is considered an essential source because it represents the agreement of experts who have extensively studied and analyzed the Islamic texts and principles. It is important to note that ijma' is not based on the number of scholars who agree, but rather on the agreement of the qualified scholars who possess deep knowledge and expertise in Islamic law. This ensures that the consensus is reliable and reflective of the true spirit and teachings of Islam. Ijma' serves as an established basis for justice because it helps prevent individual interpretations from being imposed on the general Muslim community. It promotes unity and harmony among Muslims by providing a common understanding of the law. Overall, ijma' is a significant secondary source of Islamic law that relies on the consensus opinion of qualified scholars. It helps ensure the stability, consistency, and justice in the interpretation and application of Islamic law. Therefore, it holds a crucial role in shaping the legal framework of Islamic societies.

The prayer that is not observed between Isha and Fajr is the Istisqa prayer.
The Istisqa prayer is a special prayer that is performed to seek rainfall from Allah during times of drought or scarcity of water. It is not specifically tied to any particular time of the day and can be performed at any time when the need for rain arises.
On the other hand, the other three prayers mentioned - Tahajjud, Shafi, and Witr - are all observed between the Isha and Fajr prayers.
Tahajjud is the voluntary night prayer that is performed after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer. It is a recommended prayer that holds immense spiritual benefits and allows individuals to seek closeness to Allah in the tranquility of the night.
Shafi is a voluntary prayer that can be performed after the Isha prayer and before the Witr prayer. It is a Sunnah prayer that is highly recommended, although not obligatory. It is performed in pairs of two units (raka'ahs).
Witr is the final prayer of the day and is performed after the Tahajjud prayer or, if one did not perform Tahajjud, after the Isha prayer. It is a single unit prayer and it is considered highly recommended to perform Witr prayer before going to sleep.
Therefore, the prayer that is not observed between Isha and Fajr is the Istisqa prayer, as it is not specifically tied to any fixed time of the day and can be performed whenever the need arises for seeking rainfall.

In the science of Hadith, the next level of authenticity after Sahih is known as Hasan. Hasan hadith refers to a hadith that is considered sound, but with a slightly lower level of authenticity compared to Sahih. To understand this, let's go through the different levels of hadith authenticity briefly: 1. Sahih: Sahih hadith is the highest level of authenticity. It refers to a hadith that has a solid chain of narrators (isnad) and is free from any significant flaws or defects. Sahih hadiths are considered highly reliable and can be confidently attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). 2. Hasan: Hasan hadith comes after Sahih in terms of authenticity. It refers to a hadith that is sound and reliable, but with a slightly weaker chain of narrators compared to Sahih. It may have a minor defect or weakness in its chain or content, but it does not reach the level of Sahih. 3. Da'if: Da'if hadith refers to a weak hadith. It has a flaw or weakness in its chain of narrators or content, making it less reliable than Sahih and Hasan hadiths. Da'if hadiths are not considered strong evidence and should be treated with caution when deriving rulings or beliefs. 4. Muttasil: Muttasil hadith is a term used to describe a hadith with an unbroken chain of narrators from the Prophet (pbuh) through each generation. It indicates a continuous transmission of the hadith and adds to its authenticity. So, in summary, after Sahih, the next level of authenticity in the science of Hadith is Hasan. While Sahih hadiths are considered the most reliable, Hasan hadiths also hold a strong level of authenticity and can be trusted, although they have a slightly weaker chain or minor defect compared to Sahih hadiths.

The supererogatory prayer with a single rak'ah is Salatul Witr.
Salatul Witr is a voluntary prayer that is performed after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer. It consists of an odd number of rak'ahs (units of prayer), with the minimum being one rak'ah.
This prayer is considered supererogatory, meaning it is not obligatory but highly recommended. It is a way for individuals to earn extra rewards and strengthen their connection with Allah.
Salatul Witr is a special prayer that holds great virtue in Islam. It is often performed separately from the regular daily prayers. It is recommended to perform it during the night, after the Isha prayer, but before the Fajr prayer. However, if someone is unable to wake up for it before Fajr, they can still perform it before going to sleep.
The prayer consists of various rak'ahs, with odd numbers being preferred. The final rak'ah, known as the Witr rak'ah, is the one that distinguishes this prayer from others. It is usually performed with an odd number of units, such as one rak'ah, three rak'ahs, or five rak'ahs, but it can also be performed with more.
During Salatul Witr, additional supplications, known as Qunoot, are made in the final rak'ah. These supplications can be made in Arabic or the person's local language, and they can ask for guidance, forgiveness, and blessings.
Performing Salatul Witr is highly recommended, but it is important to remember that it is not obligatory like the five daily prayers. However, it holds immense spiritual benefits and can strengthen one's relationship with 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 capital of the ancient Ghana empire was Awkar. The Ghana empire existed from the 4th to 13th centuries in West Africa. Awkar was located in present-day Mali, near the Niger River.
Awkar was an important trading city and served as the political and economic center of the Ghana empire. It was strategically situated between the desert region to the north and the forest region to the south, which allowed for easy access to valuable trade resources from both areas.
The wealth and power of the Ghana empire were primarily built on the control of gold and salt trade routes. Gold was abundant in the forest regions to the south, while salt was scarce in the desert regions to the north. The empire's location made it a critical hub for facilitating trade between the two regions.
Awkar became a flourishing city due to its role as a commercial center. It attracted merchants from various parts of Africa and beyond. These merchants brought goods like textiles, spices, and other valuable resources, creating a bustling marketplace in Awkar.
As the capital of the Ghana empire, Awkar was also home to important political and administrative institutions. It was where the king, known as the Ghana, held court and made decisions regarding the empire. The city was likely adorned with beautiful palaces, mosques, and other structures representing the empire's wealth and influence.
In summary, Awkar served as the capital of the ancient Ghana empire. It was a thriving city located in present-day Mali, known for its importance in trade, politics, and administration.

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.

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.

The classifications of Hadith are used to categorize the authenticity and reliability of the narrations. The given options are:

Daif: This classification refers to weak Hadiths. These narrations have a weakness in either their chain of narrators or in the content of the Hadith itself. They are not considered strong or reliable enough to form a basis for beliefs or practices.

Mawdu: Mawdu Hadiths are fabricated or forged narrations that have been falsely attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). These Hadiths were intentionally created by individuals for various reasons and are not considered authentic or reliable.

Sahih: Sahih refers to authentic Hadiths. These are narrations that have a strong and reliable chain of narrators and are in accordance with Islamic teachings. Sahih Hadiths are considered a reliable source of guidance and can be used to derive Islamic rulings and understand the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Hasan: Hasan Hadiths are those that have a good, but not as strong, chain of narrators. While they are not as strong as Sahih Hadiths, they are still considered reliable and can be used as a source of guidance in matters of Islamic practice.

Therefore, from the given options, the classification of Hasam does not exist. It is not a recognized classification of Hadith.

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 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.

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

The unity of Allah is expressed in Suratul Ikhlas. This chapter of the Quran emphasizes the concept of Tawheed, which is the belief in the oneness of Allah. Surah Ikhlas begins with the statement "Qul huwa Allahu ahad", which means "Say, He is Allah, the One". This verse affirms that Allah is unique and singular, and there is no one like Him. It emphasizes the absolute oneness of Allah, without any partners or associates. The Surah goes on to describe Allah as "As-Samad", which means the Self-Sufficient. This demonstrates that Allah is not in need of anyone or anything, and everything in the universe relies on Him for their existence. Surah Ikhlas also declares that Allah neither begets nor is begotten, meaning that He does not have any children nor is He born or created by anyone. This emphasizes that Allah is eternal and has no beginning or end. By emphasizing these qualities of Allah, Surah Ikhlas conveys the fundamental belief in the unity of Allah and refutes any notions of polytheism or associating partners with Allah. It highlights the importance of understanding and recognizing the uniqueness and singularity of Allah in our faith. In summary, Suratul Ikhlas expresses the unity of Allah by affirming His oneness, uniqueness, and self-sufficiency. It serves as a reminder to believers of the fundamental belief in the Tawheed and the importance of recognizing and worshiping Allah as the one and only God.

In the battle of Uhud, the number of Makkan soldiers who took part was 3000.
The battle of Uhud took place between the Muslims of Medina and the Quraysh tribe from Mecca. The Quraysh tribe brought a large army to attack the Muslims in Medina. The Makkan army consisted of a significant number of soldiers.
To be more specific, there were 3000 Makkan troops who participated in the battle. These soldiers were well-equipped and had a strong desire to defeat the Muslims and regain their dominance in Mecca.
The Muslims, on the other hand, had fewer soldiers compared to the Makkan army. They had around 1000 warriors defending Medina. Despite being outnumbered, the Muslims managed to put up a strong resistance.
During the battle, there were moments when the Muslims had the upper hand, but due to some strategic errors and a lack of discipline in some of the Muslim ranks, the tide turned in favor of the Makkan army.
Overall, the battle of Uhud was a turning point in the early history of Islam. It highlighted the importance of discipline, unity, and strategic planning. It also showed the Muslims the need to learn from their mistakes and work towards improving themselves in the future.

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.

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.