JAMB UTME - Islamic Religious Studies - 2025

Antwoorddetails

The covenant of all Prophets (Mithaq an-Nabiyyin) is referenced in Surah Al-Ahzab. Specifically, verse 7 of Surah Al-Ahzab (33:7) states: "And [mention, O Muhammad], when We took from the prophets their covenant and from you and from Nuh and Ibrahim and Musa and Isa, the son of Maryam; and We took from them a solemn covenant."

This verse describes the covenant (mithaq) that Allah took from all the prophets, with five of the greatest prophets (Ulul-Azm, the Prophets of Strong Will) mentioned by name: Muhammad (SAW), Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, and Isa (AS). The covenant required each prophet to affirm the truth of Allah's message and to support one another's mission. Surah Al-Imran (3:81) also discusses a related covenant where prophets were asked to believe in and support any messenger who came after them confirming what they had.

While the covenant concept appears in Surah Al-Imran (3:81) as well, the specific verse that enumerates the prophets and their solemn covenant together is in Surah Al-Ahzab. Al-Ma'idah and Al-Tawbah deal with other aspects of Islamic law and practice but are not the primary location for the collective prophetic covenant.

Antwoorddetails

The verse declaring the perfection and completion of the Islamic religion appears in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:3). The relevant portion reads: "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion."

This verse was revealed during the Prophet's Farewell Pilgrimage at the plain of Arafat in 10 AH, and it is one of the most significant verses in the Qur'an because it signals that the legislative framework of Islam was now complete.

The other surahs, while containing important legal and theological content, do not contain this declaration. Al-Baqarah (Surah 2) covers many foundational rulings. Al-Imran (Surah 3) deals extensively with the people of the scripture and the Battle of Uhud. Al-Nisa (Surah 4) focuses on family law, inheritance, and women's rights. The perfection of the religion, however, is specifically stated in Al-Ma'idah.

Antwoorddetails

The term Huda in the Qur'an means guidance. It comes from the Arabic root h-d-y, which carries the meaning of guiding, directing, or showing the right path. The word appears frequently throughout the Qur'an. One of the most well-known occurrences is in the second verse of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2): "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance (huda) for those conscious of Allah."

The Qur'an itself is repeatedly described as huda (guidance) for humanity, and the concept of divine guidance is central to Islamic theology. It encompasses showing the straight path, directing believers toward righteous conduct, and illuminating truth from falsehood.

The other options represent related but distinct Qur'anic concepts. Blessing corresponds to the Arabic term barakah. Mercy corresponds to rahmah. Light corresponds to nur. While guidance, mercy, and light are sometimes mentioned together in the Qur'an when describing its qualities, the specific Arabic term huda translates to guidance.

Antwoorddetails

The word Zakah comes from the Arabic root z-k-w, which literally means purification or growth. In its linguistic sense, Zakah refers to the act of purifying or cleansing. When applied as an Islamic obligation, it denotes the purification of one's wealth by setting aside a prescribed portion for those in need.

While Zakah functions as a form of charitable giving, the question specifically asks for its literal meaning, not its practical function. The distinction matters: charity (sadaqah) is a broader voluntary concept, whereas Zakah is an obligatory act of worship whose very name signals that paying it purifies the remainder of a Muslim's wealth and soul. The terms donation and tax describe aspects of how Zakah operates but do not capture the root meaning of the Arabic word itself.

In examinations, pay close attention to whether the question asks for a literal meaning, a technical definition, or a practical description, as these can point to different answers.

Antwoorddetails

Zakah is the Arabic term for the annual obligatory charity that every qualifying Muslim must pay. It is the third pillar of Islam and is mentioned alongside prayer (Salah) in numerous verses of the Qur'an, emphasising its importance. Zakah literally means "purification" or "growth," reflecting the belief that paying it purifies one's wealth and increases blessings.

Zakah is calculated as 2.5% of a Muslim's accumulated wealth that has been held for one full lunar year and exceeds the minimum threshold (nisab). It is distributed to eight categories of recipients specified in Surah At-Tawbah (9:60), including the poor, the needy, and those in debt.

The other terms have distinct meanings. Sadaqah is voluntary charity given at any time and in any amount - it is not obligatory and has no fixed rate. Jizyah is a tax historically levied on non-Muslim subjects (dhimmis) living under Islamic governance in exchange for protection and exemption from military service. Khums refers to a one-fifth tax, primarily observed in Shia jurisprudence, on certain types of surplus income.

Antwoorddetails

Before receiving prophethood, Prophet Musa (Moses) worked as a shepherd. After fleeing Egypt following the incident in which he accidentally killed an Egyptian, Musa travelled to the land of Madyan. There he helped two women water their flock at a well, which led him to meet their father, the elderly Prophet Shu'ayb (identified as Jethro in the biblical tradition). Shu'ayb offered Musa employment as a shepherd in exchange for marrying one of his daughters, and Musa tended sheep for eight to ten years (Surah Al-Qasas, 28:25-28).

Shepherding was in fact a common occupation among many prophets. A well-known hadith states that every prophet sent by Allah was a shepherd at some point. The experience of tending and protecting a flock is understood to develop the patience, vigilance, and care needed for the greater responsibility of guiding a community.

The other occupations listed do not apply to Musa. Merchant is more closely associated with Prophet Muhammad before his prophethood. Carpentry is traditionally linked to Prophet Isa (Jesus) through biblical sources, while farming is not specifically tied to Musa in Islamic sources.

Antwoorddetails

The migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE is one of the most significant events in Islamic history. The Prophet left Makkah because the persecution of Muslims by the Quraysh had become unbearable, and the people of Yathrib (later renamed Madinah, meaning "The City of the Prophet") had pledged allegiance to him and invited him to settle among them.

Madinah is the correct destination of the Hijrah. The other locations listed played different roles in early Islamic history. Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia) was the destination of an earlier, smaller migration where some persecuted Muslims sought refuge under the Christian king Negus, but the Prophet himself did not migrate there. Taif was a city where the Prophet once travelled to seek support but was rejected and stoned. Jerusalem (Al-Quds) is associated with the night journey (Isra and Mi'raj), not the Hijrah.

The Hijrah to Madinah marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar (Hijri calendar) and established the first organised Muslim community (Ummah), making it a turning point for the spread of Islam.

Antwoorddetails

The definitive verse forbidding alcohol (and other intoxicants) is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90-91). The verse states: "O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants (khamr), gambling, [sacrificing on] stone altars, and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Shaytan, so avoid it that you may be successful."

The prohibition of alcohol in the Qur'an was revealed gradually, in stages:

1. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:219), the Qur'an acknowledged that there is both sin and benefit in wine and gambling, but stated that the sin is greater than the benefit. This was an initial discouragement, not a full prohibition.
2. In Surah Al-Nisa (4:43), Muslims were told not to approach prayer while intoxicated, restricting the times when drinking was permissible.
3. Finally, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90-91), the complete and unequivocal prohibition was revealed, commanding believers to avoid intoxicants entirely and categorising them as an abomination from the work of Shaytan.

The verse in Surah Al-Ma'idah is considered the final and definitive ruling (hukm) on the matter because it was the last to be revealed on this subject and uses the strongest language of prohibition. Al-Imran does not contain a specific verse on the prohibition of alcohol.

Antwoorddetails

The longest ayah (verse) in the Qur'an is found in Surah Al-Baqarah. It is verse 282, commonly known as Ayat ad-Dayn (the Verse of Debt/Financial Transaction). This single verse spans approximately one full page of the standard Mushaf and deals comprehensively with the rules governing financial transactions, debts, and contracts.

Ayah 282 of Surah Al-Baqarah instructs believers to write down their debts and financial obligations, to have witnesses present, and provides detailed guidance on the proper way to document such agreements. It covers the appointment of a scribe, the number and type of witnesses required, and the circumstances under which documentation may be exempted (such as immediate hand-to-hand trade).

Surah Al-Baqarah is also the longest surah in the Qur'an, with 286 verses. It contains several other notable passages including Ayatul Kursi (verse 255) and the final two verses that are recommended for recitation before sleep.

The other surahs listed - Al-Tawbah (Chapter 9), Al-Imran (Chapter 3), and Al-Nisa (Chapter 4) - all contain lengthy verses, but none surpasses verse 282 of Al-Baqarah in length.

Antwoorddetails

Backbiting (ghibah) is classified as a major sin in Islam. The Qur'an explicitly condemns it in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12): "And do not backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would detest it." This powerful metaphor compares backbiting to the repulsive act of consuming the flesh of one's deceased brother, emphasising how grave the sin is.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) defined backbiting as "mentioning your brother in a way that he would dislike," even if what is said is true. If the statement is false, it becomes buhtan (slander), which is an even greater sin. Backbiting destroys social bonds, violates the honour of fellow Muslims, and erodes trust within the community.

The other options are incorrect. Backbiting is never recommended, regardless of circumstances. It is not classified as merely optional (implying neutrality), nor is it permissible during war. Islam maintains strict ethical conduct even in conflict, and backbiting remains prohibited under all conditions. Scholars list it among the kaba'ir (major sins) that require sincere repentance and, where possible, seeking forgiveness from the person who was wronged.

Antwoorddetails

Adam is the first human being created by Allah. The Qur'an describes his creation from clay (tin) in several surahs, including Al-Baqarah (2:30-34), Al-Hijr (15:26-29), and Sad (38:71-72). After shaping Adam from clay, Allah breathed His spirit into him and commanded the angels to prostrate before him.

Adam holds the unique distinction of being both the first human and the first prophet in Islam. He was placed in Paradise along with his wife Hawwa (Eve) and was later sent down to earth after eating from the forbidden tree.

The other prophets listed came much later in the chain of prophethood. Idris is traditionally regarded as one of the earliest prophets after Adam, but not the first human. Nuh (Noah) came generations after Adam and is known for the great flood. Musa (Moses) came still later, sent to the Children of Israel in Egypt.

Antwoorddetails

The story of the People of the Cave (Ashab al-Kahf) is narrated in Surah Al-Kahf (Surah 18). The surah itself takes its name from this story: Al-Kahf means "The Cave" in Arabic.

The narrative (18:9-26) tells of a group of righteous young men who fled religious persecution in their city. They took refuge in a cave, where Allah caused them to sleep for approximately 309 years. When they awoke, they discovered that the world had changed entirely and the people of their city had become believers. This story illustrates Allah's power over time, His protection of the faithful, and the reality of resurrection.

The other surahs do not contain this narrative. Al-Tin (Surah 95) is a short surah about human nature and creation. Al-Fil (Surah 105) recounts the story of the army of the elephant that attacked Makkah. Al-Hajj (Surah 22) deals with the pilgrimage rites and themes of resurrection but does not contain the cave story.

Antwoorddetails

Maryam (Mary) was the mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus). The Qur'an gives Maryam a uniquely honoured position: she is the only woman mentioned by name in the entire Qur'an, and an entire surah (Surah Maryam, Surah 19) is named after her. The Qur'an regularly refers to Isa as "Isa ibn Maryam" (Jesus, son of Mary), emphasising his maternal lineage given the absence of a human father.

Maryam was the daughter of Imran, from a devout family. She was dedicated to worship at the temple from childhood and was under the guardianship of Prophet Zakariyya. The Qur'an describes her as chosen above all women of the worlds: "O Maryam, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds" (Surah Al-Imran, 3:42).

The other women listed have different roles. Hajar was the wife of Prophet Ibrahim and mother of Ismail. Fatima was the daughter of Prophet Muhammad. Aisha was one of the Prophet Muhammad's wives.

Antwoorddetails

The people of 'Ad were an ancient Arabian tribe to whom Allah sent Prophet Hud (AS). They were known for their great physical strength and impressive architecture, but they rejected Hud's message and persisted in idol worship and arrogance.

According to the Qur'an (Surah Al-Haqqah, 69:6-7 and Surah Al-Qamar, 54:19-20), Allah destroyed the people of 'Ad by sending upon them a furious, violent wind (described as rih sarsar) that raged for seven nights and eight days continuously. This devastating storm uprooted them and left them lying destroyed like hollow trunks of palm trees. Surah Fussilat (41:16) also describes the punishment as a screaming wind sent during days of misfortune.

The other options describe punishments associated with different peoples: drowning was the punishment of the people of Nuh (AS) through the great flood. Fire (combined with brimstone) was associated with the people of Lut (AS). Earthquake was the punishment of the people of Thamud (the followers of Prophet Salih) and the people of Madyan (the followers of Prophet Shu'ayb).

Exam tip: Match each destroyed nation with its specific punishment - 'Ad with storm/wind, Thamud with earthquake/thunderbolt, people of Nuh with flood, people of Lut with overturned cities and stones.

Antwoorddetails

A Muslim must observe five compulsory (fard) prayers every day. These five daily prayers are the second pillar of Islam and were prescribed during the Prophet's night journey (Isra and Mi'raj). They are:

1. Fajr - the dawn prayer, performed before sunrise (2 units/rak'at)
2. Dhuhr - the midday prayer, performed after the sun passes its zenith (4 rak'at)
3. Asr - the afternoon prayer, performed in the late afternoon (4 rak'at)
4. Maghrib - the sunset prayer, performed just after sunset (3 rak'at)
5. Isha - the night prayer, performed after twilight has disappeared (4 rak'at)

Together these five prayers total 17 obligatory rak'at per day. The Qur'an commands the establishment of prayer in numerous verses, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) said in an authentic hadith that the five daily prayers are like a river at one's door in which one bathes five times a day, washing away sins.

Antwoorddetails

The name "Al-Qur'an" is derived from the Arabic root qa-ra-a, which means "to read" or "to recite." Accordingly, Al-Qur'an literally means "The Recitation" or "That which is recited." This name reflects the fundamental nature of the Qur'an as a text meant to be recited aloud, memorised, and transmitted through oral recitation - a practice that began with the very first revelation when the angel Jibril (AS) commanded Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with the word Iqra' ("Recite!") in the Cave of Hira.

The Qur'an is the final holy book revealed by Allah, sent down over approximately 23 years. Its identity as "The Recitation" distinguishes it from other scriptures in that its preservation has always been tied to oral transmission alongside written recording. Millions of Muslims (huffaz) memorise the entire text, making it the most widely memorised book in history.

The other options are not accurate translations of "Al-Qur'an": "The Law" would more closely correspond to the Torah/Tawrat. "The Testament" is associated with Christian scripture terminology. "The Reminder" (Adh-Dhikr) is indeed one of the names used for the Qur'an in the Qur'an itself (Surah Al-Hijr, 15:9), but it is not the meaning of the word "Al-Qur'an."

Antwoorddetails

The people of Thamud were the community of Prophet Salih. They lived in the rocky region of Al-Hijr (in present-day northwestern Arabia) and were known for carving homes out of mountains. When they defied Allah's command by hamstringing the miraculous she-camel that had been sent as a sign, they were destroyed by a devastating blast.

The Qur'an describes their punishment using the term sayha (a deafening, overwhelming blast) in Surah Hud (11:67) and sa'iqa (a thunderbolt or lightning-strike) in Surah Fussilat (41:17). The correct answer is therefore a thunderbolt, reflecting the catastrophic sound and force that annihilated them.

It helps to distinguish the punishments of different destroyed nations: the people of Nuh were punished by drowning in the great flood; the people of 'Ad (Prophet Hud's community) were destroyed by a furious, relentless storm; and the people of Lut were struck by a rain of stones. Associating each nation with its specific punishment is a reliable way to answer these questions correctly.

Antwoorddetails

The Prophet whose sons plotted against him was Yaqub (Jacob, AS). The Qur'an devotes a large portion of Surah Yusuf (Chapter 12) to this story. Yaqub had twelve sons, and the older brothers became jealous of their father's deep love for their younger brother Yusuf (Joseph, AS). They conspired together and threw Yusuf into a well, then returned to their father with his shirt stained in false blood, claiming that a wolf had devoured him.

This plot against Yusuf was, by extension, a plot against Yaqub himself, as it was designed to deceive him and remove the son he loved dearly. Yaqub saw through their story, saying "Rather, your souls have enticed you to something" (Qur'an 12:18), and he bore the separation with beautiful patience (sabr jamil) for many years until he was eventually reunited with Yusuf in Egypt.

The other prophets listed were not subject to plots by their own sons in the Qur'anic narrative. Nuh (AS) had a son who refused to board the Ark and drowned, but this was disobedience rather than a conspiracy. Ibrahim (AS) is not recorded as having sons who plotted against him. Musa (AS) is not described in the Qur'an as having sons who conspired against him.

Antwoorddetails

In Islamic tradition, the wife of Pharaoh (Fir'awn) who believed in Allah is Asiyah bint Muzahim. She is one of the four women identified in hadith as having attained perfection of faith. The Qur'an references her in Surah At-Tahrim (66:11), where Allah presents her as an example for the believers: she prayed to Allah to build her a house in Paradise and to save her from Pharaoh and his deeds.

Asiyah's faith is remarkable because she believed despite living in the household of one of the most tyrannical rulers mentioned in the Qur'an. When she witnessed the miracles of Prophet Musa (AS) and recognised the truth of his message, she accepted faith in Allah, even though it put her life in danger.

The other women listed are important figures in Islamic history but are not the wife of Pharaoh. Sarah was the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Hajar was also a wife of Ibrahim (AS) and the mother of Isma'il (AS). Maryam (Mary) was the mother of Prophet Isa (AS), not married to Pharaoh.

Exam tip: Remember that Asiyah is specifically associated with Pharaoh, while the other women are connected to different prophets.

Antwoorddetails

The main theme of Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112) is the oneness of Allah (Tawhid). The surah's very name, Al-Ikhlas, means "Sincerity" or "Purity of Faith," and its four concise verses provide the most concentrated statement of Islamic monotheism in the entire Qur'an:

1. "Qul huwa Allahu ahad" - Say: He is Allah, the One.
2. "Allahu as-samad" - Allah, the Eternal Refuge (the Self-Sufficient).
3. "Lam yalid wa lam yulad" - He neither begets nor is born.
4. "Wa lam yakun lahu kufuwan ahad" - Nor is there any equivalent to Him.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that this surah is equivalent to one-third of the Qur'an because it encapsulates the entire concept of Allah's nature and oneness, which is the foundational belief of Islam. The surah negates any form of polytheism, partnership with Allah, or attribution of human qualities such as having children or parents to Allah.

The other options are unrelated to this surah. Inheritance rules are found primarily in Surah Al-Nisa. The punishment of the grave is discussed in hadith literature. The birth of the Prophet is not a Qur'anic theme.

Antwoorddetails

Ayatul Kursi (the Verse of the Throne) is found in Surah Al-Baqarah. It is specifically verse 255 of the second chapter of the Qur'an. Ayatul Kursi is one of the most well-known and frequently recited verses in the Qur'an, and it is considered the greatest verse in the entire Qur'an according to an authentic hadith narrated by Ubayy ibn Ka'b.

The verse describes Allah's absolute sovereignty, power, and knowledge. It begins with "Allahu la ilaha illa Huwa, Al-Hayyul-Qayyum" (Allah - there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Self-Sustaining). It affirms that Allah's Kursi (Throne/Footstool) extends over the heavens and the earth, and that preserving them does not tire Him. The verse encapsulates core aspects of Tawhid (the oneness of Allah).

Surah Al-Baqarah is the longest surah in the Qur'an with 286 verses. The other surahs listed - Al-Nisa (Chapter 4), Al-Imran (Chapter 3), and Al-Tawbah (Chapter 9) - do not contain Ayatul Kursi, although they each contain important verses on other aspects of Islamic law and belief.

Antwoorddetails

Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon, peace be upon him) was the Prophet uniquely gifted by Allah with the ability to command and control the jinn. The Qur'an describes this in several passages, notably in Surah Al-Naml (27:17) where it states that Sulaiman's forces were assembled from among the jinn, humans, and birds, all marshalled in orderly ranks. Surah Saba (34:12-13) further describes how the jinn worked under Sulaiman's command, building palaces, statues, large basins, and fixed cooking pots.

Sulaiman's dominion over the jinn was part of a broader set of extraordinary gifts from Allah. He could understand the speech of birds and animals, had command over the wind, and possessed vast wisdom and kingdom. He prayed to Allah in Surah Sad (38:35): "My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not belong to anyone after me."

The other Prophets were associated with different roles: Ibrahim (Abraham) with the establishment of monotheism and the rebuilding of the Ka'bah, Isa (Jesus) with healing miracles, and Musa (Moses) with the deliverance of the Israelites from Pharaoh.

Antwoorddetails

The first revealed verses of the Qur'an were in Surah Al-'Alaq (Chapter 96), also known as Surah Iqra'. The first five verses of this surah were the very first words of the Qur'an to be revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) through the angel Jibril (AS) in the Cave of Hira on Mount Nur, near Makkah, in approximately 610 CE.

These opening verses are: "Recite in the name of your Lord who created. Created man from a clinging substance ('alaq). Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous. Who taught by the pen. Taught man that which he knew not" (Qur'an 96:1-5). The word 'alaq in the surah's name refers to the clinging clot or clinging substance from which the human being is created, and gives the surah its name.

The event of this first revelation marks the beginning of Prophet Muhammad's prophethood and the start of the 23-year period during which the entire Qur'an was gradually revealed.

The other surahs listed are all short surahs found near the end of the Qur'an: Al-Kawthar (Chapter 108) is about the abundance granted to the Prophet. Al-Falaq (Chapter 113) and Al-Nas (Chapter 114) are the two protective surahs (Al-Mu'awwidhatayn) seeking refuge in Allah. None of these were the first to be revealed.

Antwoorddetails

Surah Al-Imran refers to the family of 'Imran, which includes Maryam (mother of Isa), as seen in Qur'an 3:33: "Indeed, Allah chose
Adam, Noah, the family of Abraham and the family of 'Imran."

Antwoorddetails

The event of Mi'raj (the Prophet Muhammad's ascension through the heavens) is referenced in Surah Al-Najm (The Star, Surah 53). Verses 53:13-18 describe the second encounter during which the Prophet saw Jibril (Gabriel) in his true form near Sidrat al-Muntaha (the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary), and witnessed the signs of Allah in the highest heavens.

It is important to distinguish the Mi'raj from the Isra. The Isra (the night journey from Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem) is referenced in Surah Al-Isra (17:1). The Mi'raj (the ascension from Jerusalem through the seven heavens) is described in Surah Al-Najm. Since the question specifically asks about the Mi'raj, Al-Najm is the correct answer.

The other surahs listed are unrelated to this event: Al-Ma'un (Surah 107) discusses small acts of kindness and neglect of prayer; Al-Baqarah (Surah 2) covers broad themes of guidance and law; and Al-Nur (Surah 24) deals primarily with social conduct and modesty.

Antwoorddetails

Some of Musa's people who violated the Sabbath were transformed into apes, as recorded in Qur'an 2:65: "Be you apes, despised."

Antwoorddetails

The Prophet Muhammad performed his Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajjat al-Wada') in 10 AH (After Hijrah), corresponding to 632 CE. This was the only Hajj the Prophet performed after the emigration to Madinah, and it took place just a few months before his death in Rabi' al-Awwal of 11 AH.

During this pilgrimage, the Prophet delivered his famous Farewell Sermon (Khutbat al-Wada') on the plain of Arafat, in which he addressed fundamental principles of Islam including the sanctity of life and property, the equality of all people regardless of race, the rights of women, the prohibition of usury (riba), and the importance of holding fast to the Qur'an and Sunnah. It is also during this pilgrimage that the verse declaring the perfection of the religion (Surah Al-Ma'idah, 5:3) was revealed.

The other dates are incorrect. 5 AH corresponds to the Battle of the Trench. 8 AH was the year of the Conquest of Makkah (Fath Makkah). 12 AH falls after the Prophet's death.

Antwoorddetails

The Prophet who was thrown into the fire but saved by Allah was Ibrahim (Abraham, AS). This event is narrated in the Qur'an in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:68-69) and Surah As-Saffat (37:97-98).

Ibrahim (AS) challenged the idol worship of his people by destroying their idols to prove their powerlessness. When his people discovered what he had done, they were enraged and decided to punish him by throwing him into a great fire. They built a massive bonfire and catapulted Ibrahim into it.

However, Allah commanded the fire: "O fire, be coolness and safety upon Ibrahim" (Ya naru kuni bardan wa salaman 'ala Ibrahim) (Qur'an 21:69). By Allah's miraculous intervention, the fire did not burn Ibrahim at all. He emerged from it completely unharmed. This miracle demonstrated Allah's absolute power over the natural elements and vindicated Ibrahim's monotheistic message.

This event is one of the defining moments in Ibrahim's life and demonstrates why he is regarded as Khalilullah (the friend of Allah) and one of the Ulul-Azm (Prophets of Strong Determination).

The other prophets listed had different trials: Isa (AS) was raised up to Allah and was not crucified according to Islamic belief. Musa (AS) confronted Pharaoh and parted the sea. Yusuf (AS) was thrown into a well by his brothers and later imprisoned in Egypt, but was not thrown into fire.

Antwoorddetails

Caliph Uthman standardised and compiled the Qur'an (history of Uthmanic codex).

Antwoorddetails

The tribe of Quraysh is mentioned in the surah that bears their name: Surah Quraysh (Chapter 106). This is a short surah of four verses that specifically addresses the Quraysh tribe and their blessings from Allah.

Surah Quraysh reads: "For the accustomed security of the Quraysh - Their accustomed security [in] the caravan of winter and summer - Let them worship the Lord of this House, Who has fed them, [saving them] from hunger and made them safe, [saving them] from fear" (106:1-4). The surah reminds the Quraysh of the favours Allah bestowed upon them, particularly their safe trade caravans that travelled to Yemen in winter and to Syria (Ash-Sham) in summer, and calls them to worship the Lord of the Ka'bah in gratitude.

The Quraysh were the dominant tribe in Makkah and the custodians of the Ka'bah. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) himself belonged to the Quraysh tribe, specifically the clan of Banu Hashim.

Surah Al-Fil (Chapter 105) is closely related as it describes the destruction of the army of Abraha who tried to destroy the Ka'bah, but it does not name the Quraysh. Al-Asr (Chapter 103) deals with the concept of time and loss. Al-Kauthar (Chapter 108) speaks of the abundance given to the Prophet.

Antwoorddetails

Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him) is the Prophet known in the Qur'an for performing healing miracles by Allah's permission. The Qur'an describes these miracles in Surah Al-Imran (3:49), where Isa declares: "I cure the blind and the leper, and I give life to the dead, by Allah's permission." This verse makes clear that these healings were not from Isa's own power but were miracles granted to him by Allah as signs of his prophethood.

Isa's miracles also included speaking from the cradle as an infant, fashioning a bird from clay and breathing life into it by Allah's permission, and informing people of what they ate and stored in their homes. These extraordinary signs were given to him to confirm his message to the Children of Israel.

The other Prophets were associated with different miracles and roles. Sulaiman (Solomon) was given dominion over the jinn, wind, and animals. Musa (Moses) was given the staff that transformed into a serpent and the ability to part the sea. Dawud (David) was given the Psalms (Zabur), a powerful voice, and the ability to soften iron.

Antwoorddetails

The Surah referred to as the "Heart of the Qur'an" is Surah Yasin (Chapter 36). This designation comes from a hadith attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW): "Everything has a heart, and the heart of the Qur'an is Yasin" (reported by Tirmidhi and others, though scholars have discussed its chain of narration).

Surah Yasin contains 83 verses and covers several core themes of Islamic belief: the truth of prophethood and revelation, the signs of Allah's creative power in nature, the reality of death and resurrection, and the certainty of the Day of Judgement. It presents parables and arguments that reinforce the central messages of the entire Qur'an, which is one reason scholars explain why it is called its "heart" - it encapsulates the essence of the Qur'an's message in a concentrated form.

Surah Yasin is widely recited by Muslims, especially for the sick and dying, and is considered to bring blessings and mercy.

The other surahs listed serve different purposes: Al-Rahman (Chapter 55) is known as the "Bride of the Qur'an" and repeatedly asks "Which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?" Al-Naba (Chapter 78) deals with the Day of Resurrection. Al-Mulk (Chapter 67) discusses Allah's sovereignty and is known for its protective virtue in the grave.

Antwoorddetails

Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) is known as Kalimullah, meaning "the one who spoke directly with Allah." This title distinguishes him from all other prophets because Allah spoke to him without any intermediary. The Qur'an explicitly states this in Surah An-Nisa (4:164): "And Allah spoke to Musa directly."

The most notable instance of this direct communication occurred at Mount Tur (Sinai), where Allah called out to Musa from the burning bush and commissioned him to go to Pharaoh (Fir'awn) to free the Children of Israel (Surah Ta-Ha, 20:11-24; Surah Al-Qasas, 28:30). Allah also spoke directly to Musa when He gave him the Torah (Tawrat) on Mount Sinai.

Each of the other prophets listed has a distinct title:

• Ibrahim (Abraham) is known as Khalilullah (the Friend of Allah).
• Isa (Jesus) is known as Ruhullah (the Spirit of Allah) and Kalimatullah (the Word of Allah).
• Yusuf (Joseph) is not associated with a title related to speaking with Allah; he is known for his exceptional beauty and patience.

Antwoorddetails

Praying without ablution (wudu) in Islam renders the prayer invalid (batil). Ablution is a mandatory precondition (shart) for the validity of prayer, not merely a recommended practice. The Qur'an establishes this in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:6): "O you who believe, when you rise to perform prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows, wipe over your heads, and wash your feet to the ankles."

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reinforced this ruling in a hadith recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari: "Allah does not accept the prayer of anyone of you if he has committed hadath (ritual impurity) until he performs ablution." This means that no matter how sincerely a person prays, the prayer has no legal validity without wudu and must be repeated after performing proper ablution.

The prayer is not merely makruh (disliked but still valid); it is completely void. Ablution involves washing the face, arms to the elbows, wiping the head, and washing the feet to the ankles. When water is unavailable, tayammum (dry ablution using clean earth or sand) serves as a valid substitute.

Antwoorddetails

Prophet Isa (Jesus) is the prophet who spoke from the cradle as a newborn infant. This miraculous event is narrated in Surah Maryam (19:29-33). When Maryam (Mary) returned to her people carrying the baby Isa, they accused her of wrongdoing. She pointed to the infant, and he spoke, saying: "Indeed, I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet" (19:30).

This miracle served two purposes: it defended Maryam's honour against the accusations of her people, and it established Isa's prophetic mission from the very moment of his birth. The Qur'an also references this ability in Surah Al-Imran (3:46), where it states that Isa would speak to people in the cradle and in maturity.

None of the other prophets listed are reported to have spoken from the cradle. Prophet Muhammad received revelation at the age of forty. Prophet Musa's early life involved his rescue from the Nile. Prophet Yusuf's story centres on his childhood dreams and later trials in Egypt.

Antwoorddetails

Surah Al-Nisa (Chapter 4) is named after women. The word "Al-Nisa" is Arabic for "The Women," making it the surah whose title directly references women. It is one of the longest surahs in the Qur'an (176 verses) and addresses numerous issues relating to women's rights, including inheritance, marriage, dowry (mahr), the treatment of orphans, and family law.

Among the other options, Al-Talaq (Chapter 65) means "The Divorce" and deals with divorce proceedings, but is not named after a woman or women. Al-Ahzab (Chapter 33) means "The Confederate Tribes" and refers to the coalition of forces that attacked Madinah in the Battle of the Trench. Al-Mumtahanah (Chapter 60), meaning "She Who is Examined" or "The Examined Woman," also has a feminine reference in its title, relating to the testing of women who emigrated from Makkah. However, Al-Nisa is the most prominent and widely recognised surah named directly after women in the Qur'an.

Antwoorddetails

Wahshi ibn Harb is the person who killed Hamzah ibn Abdul-Muttalib (RA) at the Battle of Uhud in 3 AH, and who later accepted Islam. Wahshi was an Abyssinian slave renowned for his skill with the javelin. He was tasked by Hind bint Utbah (wife of Abu Sufyan) and his master Jubayr ibn Mut'im to kill Hamzah in exchange for his freedom, as Hamzah had killed Hind's father and uncle at the Battle of Badr.

During the Battle of Uhud, Wahshi found an opportunity and struck Hamzah with his javelin, killing him. After the conquest of Makkah in 8 AH, Wahshi eventually accepted Islam. The Prophet forgave him but reportedly asked him not to show his face, as it reminded him of his beloved uncle's death. Wahshi later participated in the Riddah Wars and is credited with killing the false prophet Musaylimah at the Battle of Yamama.

While Hind bint Utbah was the instigator and also later accepted Islam, she is not the one who physically killed Hamzah. Abu Sufyan was the overall Quraysh commander and also later became Muslim, but he did not kill Hamzah. Suhayl ibn Amr was another prominent Quraysh figure unrelated to this event.

Antwoorddetails

Prophet Isa (Jesus) is the prophet who was born without a father. The Qur'an states that Isa was born to Maryam (Mary) through a miraculous conception by Allah's command alone, without any human father. In Surah Al-Imran (3:47), when Maryam asked how she could have a child when no man had touched her, the angel replied: "Such is Allah; He creates what He wills. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, 'Be,' and it is."

The Qur'an draws a parallel between this miracle and the creation of Adam in Surah Al-Imran (3:59): "Indeed, the example of Isa to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust; then He said to him, 'Be,' and he was." Both were created through extraordinary divine acts, but Isa's birth is specifically characterised by the absence of a father.

The other prophets listed all had fathers. Ibrahim's father was Azar. Is-haq (Isaac) was the son of Ibrahim. Musa (Moses) was the son of Imran (a different Imran from Maryam's father).

Antwoorddetails

The Ka'bah is referred to in the Qur'an as Al-Bayt al-Haram, meaning "The Sacred House" or "The Inviolable House." This title appears in several Qur'anic verses, including Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:97): "Allah has made the Ka'bah, the Sacred House (Al-Bayt al-Haram), a sanctuary for the people." The word "Haram" here means sacred, inviolable, or prohibited (from violation), indicating the sanctity of the Ka'bah and the area surrounding it.

The other terms refer to different locations. Al-Masjid al-Aqsa ("The Farthest Mosque") refers to the mosque in Jerusalem, which is the third holiest site in Islam and the destination of the Prophet's night journey (Isra). Masjid al-Quds is another name for the mosque in Jerusalem, with "Quds" meaning "holy." Al-Rawda ("The Garden") refers to the area between the Prophet's pulpit and his tomb in Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah, considered one of the gardens of Paradise.

Antwoorddetails

Prophet Yusuf (Joseph, peace be upon him) is the Prophet renowned in the Qur'an for his God-given ability to interpret dreams. An entire surah - Surah Yusuf (Chapter 12) - is devoted to his story and is described by the Qur'an as "the best of stories" (ahsan al-qasas).

Yusuf's gift of dream interpretation is demonstrated at several key points in his story. As a child, he told his father Ya'qub (Jacob) about a dream in which eleven stars, the sun, and the moon prostrated to him - a vision that later came true. While imprisoned in Egypt, he correctly interpreted the dreams of two fellow inmates: one would serve wine to the king, and the other would be crucified. Most famously, he interpreted the King of Egypt's dream of seven fat cows being devoured by seven lean cows and seven green ears of grain alongside seven dry ones, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. This interpretation saved Egypt from disaster and led to Yusuf's appointment as treasurer of Egypt.

The other Prophets listed are associated with different miracles: Musa (Moses) with the staff and parting of the sea, Harun (Aaron) as Musa's assistant and spokesman, and Isa (Jesus) with healing the sick and raising the dead by Allah's permission.