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WAEC Islamic Religion Studies 2019
Questions & Answers

40 questions · Correct answers highlighted · 40 with explanations

40 Total Questions
2019 Exam Year
40 With Explanations
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1
Question 1 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Any hadith whose message is directly from Allah is

A. Sahih
B. Hasan
C. Qudsi
D. Gharib
Explanation

Hadith Qudsi refers to a sacred saying where the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) conveys a message from Allah in his own words, differing from the Qur'an which is verbatim from Allah. This type emphasizes divine inspiration in prophetic narration, highlighting spiritual guidance beyond ordinary hadith classifications like Sahih (authentic) or Hasan (good).

2
Question 2 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Abu-Bakr was nicknamed as-Sadiq because of his

A. humility
B. kindness
C. generosity
D. truthfulness
Explanation

Abu Bakr (R.A.) earned the title 'As-Siddiq' (the Truthful) due to his unwavering honesty and immediate belief in the Prophet's Mi'raj account, when others doubted. This nickname reflects his integrity, a core Islamic virtue, and his role as the first caliph, symbolizing trust in the early Muslim community.

3
Question 3 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The verse which describes the essence of Allah is

A. 'Ayatul Kursiyy
B. 'Allamal 'insana ma lam ya'lam
C. 'Amanar – Rasul
D. Lakum dinukum waliyad-Din
Explanation

Ayat al-Kursi (Qur'an 2:255) is the greatest verse in the Qur'an, encapsulating Allah's attributes like eternity, omniscience, and omnipotence. Recited for protection, it affirms Tawhid (oneness of God), distinguishing it from other verses like B (Q96:5 on teaching), C (Q2:285 on faith), and D (Q109:6 on religious tolerance).

4
Question 4 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The first attempt for the collection of Hadith was made during the reign of

A. 'Umar b. al-Khattab
B. 'Uthman b. 'Affan
C. Mu'awiyyah b. Abi Sufyan
D. 'Umar b. 'Abdul- 'Aziz
Explanation

During 'Umar ibn Abdul-Aziz's caliphate (717-720 CE), the systematic collection of Hadith began to preserve the Prophet's traditions amid fabrication risks. He commissioned scholars like Abu Bakr ibn Hazm, establishing a precedent for later compilations like Sahih Bukhari, unlike earlier caliphs focused on Qur'an compilation.

5
Question 5 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Al-Quddus is to the Holy as Al-Mutakabbir is to the

A. Exalted
B. Almighty
C. Compeller
D. Supreme
Explanation

Al-Quddus means 'The Holy' or 'The Pure,' denoting Allah's transcendence from imperfections. Al-Mutakabbir means 'The Supreme' or 'The Majestic,' signifying His supreme greatness above all creation. This pairing highlights complementary Asma ul-Husna (Beautiful Names), emphasizing divine purity and supremacy in Islamic theology.

6
Question 6 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The Nisab is important because it is the basis of

A. Talaq
B. Salat
C. Jihad
D. Zakat
Explanation

Nisab is the minimum wealth threshold (e.g., 85g gold equivalent) required for Zakat obligation, ensuring equitable wealth distribution. It prevents undue burden on the poor, fulfilling the pillar's social justice aim, unlike Talaq (divorce), Salat (prayer), or Jihad (struggle) which lack such economic criteria.

7
Question 7 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The Miraj is associated with Prophet

A. 'Isa (A.S.)
B. Ibrahim (A.S.)
C. Nuh (A.S.)
D. Muhammad (S.A.W.)
Explanation

The Mi'raj (Night Ascension) in 621 CE saw Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) ascend from Makkah to Jerusalem (Isra) and then to heavens, receiving the five daily prayers command. This pivotal event, detailed in Surah Al-Isra (17:1), underscores his unique prophetic status, unlike other prophets' miracles.

8
Question 8 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Who among the following is associated with the standardization of the Qur'an?

A. Abu Musa al-Ash'ari
B. Mu'awiyyah b. Abi Sufyan
C. 'Umar b. al-Khattab
D. Hudhayfah b. Yamani
Explanation

Hudhayfah b. Yamani, alarmed by recitation variations during Iraq-Syria conquests, urged Caliph 'Uthman to standardize the Qur'an around 650 CE, leading to uniform Uthmani script copies. This preserved textual integrity, distinct from 'Umar's initial collection effort.

9
Question 9 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

A decision taken in the interest of the public becomes

A. Ijtihad
B. Istislah
C. Jihad
D. Urf
Explanation

Istislah (public interest) allows juristic rulings for societal benefit when no direct text exists, rooted in Maqasid al-Shari'ah (objectives of Islamic law). It differs from Ijtihad (independent reasoning), Jihad (struggle), and Urf (custom), prioritizing welfare like environmental protections.

10
Question 10 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Belief in the Prophets of Allah implies that one should

A. follow some of them in the service of Allah
B. visit their tombs on annual pilgrimage
C. withdraw from society and lead a solitary life
D. emulate their examples in serving humanity
Explanation

Iman in prophets requires following their exemplary conduct (Sunnah) in morality and service, as per Qur'an 3:31. This holistic emulation promotes ethical living, rejecting selective adherence, tomb veneration excesses, or isolation, aligning with prophetic missions of guidance.

11
Question 11 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Awsini in Hadith 16 of An-Nawawi connotes

A. admonition
B. information
C. education
D. motivation
Explanation

In Hadith 16 of Forty Hadith (on intentions), 'awsini' derives from 'nasaha' (sincerity/advice), conveying informational counsel for righteous actions. It emphasizes intent's role in deeds, providing foundational Islamic ethic rather than mere admonition or motivation.

12
Question 12 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The Qur'an serves the following purposes except that it is a

A. book of law
B. prayer book
C. source of knowledge
D. guide for Muslims only
Explanation

The Qur'an is universal guidance (Qur'an 81:27-28) for all humanity, not exclusively Muslims, offering law (Shari'ah), knowledge, and prayer elements. Its global message promotes peace and justice, transcending religious boundaries as divine wisdom.

13
Question 13 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Isnad is to Hadith as Ijma is to

A. Qur'an
B. Shari'ah
C. Salat
D. Zakat
Explanation

Isnad (chain of narration) authenticates Hadith, paralleling Ijma (consensus of scholars) as a Shari'ah source ensuring reliability. Both validate Islamic rulings, with Ijma complementing Qur'an and Sunnah in jurisprudence, unlike ritual acts like Salat or Zakat.

14
Question 14 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

There was difficulty in getting a wet-nurse for Muhammad (S.A.W.) due to

A. financial constraints
B. Abu Lahab's attitude
C. Quraysh opposition
D. hostility to his mother
Explanation

Abu Lahab, the Prophet's uncle, warned Bedouin tribes against nursing him, fearing his future prophethood. This hostility delayed acceptance until Halimah al-Sa'diyyah, highlighting early persecution despite Aminah's noble status, not financial or general opposition.

15
Question 15 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Sadaqatul-Fitr is special because it is

A. distributed on Fridays
B. a relief to poor Muslims
C. a requirement for idul-Adha
D. an aid to the wayfarer
Explanation

Sadaqat al-Fitr, obligatory before Eid al-Fitr, purifies fasting and aids the needy, ensuring festive joy for all. Unlike Zakat al-Mal or Id al-Adha sacrifices, it specifically relieves poverty, distributed to eight categories in Qur'an 9:60, emphasizing community solidarity.

16
Question 16 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The cloth use in covering the Ka'bah is called

A. Rukn
B. Hajar
C. Kiswah
D. Ihram
Explanation

Kiswah is the black silk cloth embroidered with Qur'anic verses, annually replaced during Hajj to honor the Ka'bah. Rukn (corner), Hajar (stone), and Ihram (pilgrim garb) are unrelated, with Kiswah symbolizing reverence since pre-Islamic times, renewed by caliphs.

17
Question 17 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

'Alfi shahrin in Suratatul-Qadr (Q97:3) means

A. 3000 months
B. 2000 months
C. 1000 months
D. 500 months
Explanation

'Alf shahr (a thousand months)' in Surah Al-Qadr equates Laylat al-Qadr's value to over 83 years of worship, emphasizing its spiritual superiority. This hyperbolic expression underscores Ramadan's night of revelation, surpassing ordinary devotion.

18
Question 18 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The most authentic tradition of the Prophet (S.A.W.) is considered as

A. Hasan
B. Da'if
C. Sahih
D. Musnad
Explanation

Sahih Hadith are rigorously authenticated by continuous, trustworthy narrators without irregularity, as in Bukhari and Muslim. Hasan (good) is less stringent, Da'if (weak) unreliable, and Musnad (narrated from Companion) not necessarily authentic, making Sahih the gold standard for jurisprudence.

19
Question 19 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

'Aqabah is an important historical place in Islam because the

A. migrants to Yathrib refreshed themselves there
B. Muslims took refuge in its caves
C. Prophet took refuge in its caves
D. Prophet (S.A.W.) received two pledges there
Explanation

At Aqabah (near Mina), the Prophet received the First (12 men, 621 CE) and Second (70-73 men, 622 CE) Pledges of allegiance from Yathribites, securing Hijrah support. This pivotal diplomacy shifted Islam's center, unlike refuge sites like Thawr Cave.

20
Question 20 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The first congregational Salat in Islam was performed at

A. Cave of Thawr
B. House of Arqam
C. Masjid an-Nabawi
D. Aqabah Valley
Explanation

The House of Arqam ibn Abi al-Arqam in Makkah hosted the first secret congregational prayer around 611 CE, serving as an early da'wah center. This discreet gathering built community before public prayers in Madinah, highlighting strategic propagation amid persecution.

21
Question 21 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The pre-dawn meal of a fasting Muslim in Ramadan is

A. Iftar
B. Fidyah
C. Qada
D. Suhoor
Explanation

Suhoor is the Sunnah pre-dawn meal energizing fasters, as per Hadith 'Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing' (Bukhari). Iftar breaks the fast, Fidyah compensates missed fasts, Qada makes up missed days, making Suhoor essential for spiritual and physical sustenance.

22
Question 22 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Women are admonished to dress modestly by the Qur'an so that

A. people will admire them
B. responsible partners will come their way
C. they will be respected outside
D. they can display their adornment
Explanation

Qur'an 24:31 and 33:59 promote modest dress (Hijab) to protect dignity and earn respect, shielding from harassment. This fosters societal honor, rejecting display (Q24:31 limits adornment), admiration, or partner-seeking as primary motives, aligning with chastity values.

23
Question 23 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Out of 300,000 traditions collected by Imam Muslim, he selected

A. 6,200
B. 7,200
C. 8,200
D. 9,200
Explanation

Imam Muslim scrutinized ~300,000 narrations, authenticating 9,200 for Sahih Muslim, ensuring rigorous standards. This selective process, paralleling Bukhari's, safeguards prophetic legacy, excluding weak chains for reliable fiqh and akhlaq guidance.

24
Question 24 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Which of the following was not part of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah?

A. there should be no war for ten years
B. Muhammad (S.A.W.) should not enter Makkah that year
C. If anybody wanted to join Muhammad (S.A.W.), he should send him back
D. Muhammad (S.A.W.) should not be recognized as leader
Explanation

The 628 CE Treaty included 10-year truce (A), delayed entry (B), and fugitive return (C), but recognized the Prophet as 'Muhammad Rasul Allah' leader. This 'Fath Mubin' (clear victory, Qur'an 48:1) enabled peaceful da'wah expansion.

25
Question 25 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The 8th of Dhul-Hijjah is Yawmut-Tarwiyah because

A. it marks the beginning of Hajj rites
B. pilgrims visit the Jamarat and make a sacrifice
C. the first Tawaf is performed at the Ka'bah
D. pilgrims spend the night in supplication at Muzdalifah
Explanation

Yawm at-Tarwiyah initiates Hajj proper, with pilgrims moving to Mina for preparation and watering (tarwiyah), leading to Arafah. Jamarat and sacrifice are on 10th, Tawaf on arrival, Muzdalifah on 9th, marking the ritual's commencement for spiritual renewal.

26
Question 26 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Which of the following is not a directive to women in Q. 24:31?

A. Lowering of gaze
B. Protection of dignity
C. Covering of the bosom
D. Staying indoors for worship
Explanation

Q24:31 instructs women (and men) to lower gazes (A), guard chastity (B), cover bosoms with veils (C), but not mandatory indoor worship (D), allowing participation while maintaining modesty. This balances piety with societal roles.

27
Question 27 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The blowing of trumpet at resurrection is the duty of Angel

A. Jibril
B. Mika'il
C. Israfil
D. 'Atid
Explanation

Angel Israfil (Rafael) blows the trumpet (Sur) for Qiyamah: first for death, second for resurrection (Qur'an 39:68). Jibril reveals, Mika'il sustains, 'Atid not standard, underscoring eschatological sequence in Islamic belief.

28
Question 28 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

A major teaching of the belief in the Hereafter is that

A. Muslims will enjoy the intercession of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.)
B. possession of worldly things should be ultimate goal in life
C. 'Azra'il is responsible for taking of souls
D. associating partners with Allah is unpardonable
Explanation

Akirah belief stresses accountability, with Shirk (polytheism) unforgivable if unrepented (Qur'an 4:48), motivating righteous deeds over worldly pursuits (B). Intercession (A) is possible, 'Azra'il (C) is death angel, but Shirk's gravity defines Hereafter's justice.

29
Question 29 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Absolute obedience to the Prophet's teachings is stated in an-Nawawi's Hadith

A. 16
B. 18
C. 34
D. 41
Explanation

Hadith 34 emphasizes obeying the Prophet as obeying Allah (based on Qur'an 4:80), underscoring his authority in Sunnah. This reinforces Shari'ah adherence, with other hadith like 16 on intentions complementing obedience's intent.

30
Question 30 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Muhammad's (S.A.W.) marriage with Khadijah was blessed with

A. two children
B. four children
C. six children
D. seven children
Explanation

Khadijah bore six children: sons al-Qasim, Abd Allah (died young), daughters Zaynab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum, Fatima. This union supported early Islam, with Fatima continuing the lineage, highlighting familial piety.

31
Question 31 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The number of verses contained in Surat al-Kafirun (Q.109) is

A. 5
B. 6
C. 7
D. 8
Explanation

Surah al-Kafirun has 6 verses, affirming religious independence (Q109:6 'To you your religion, to me mine'). Recited for protection from Shirk, its brevity encapsulates Tawhid against polytheism.

32
Question 32 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The Hadith collection of Muslim and Bukhari are similar in the following ways except that they

A. both cover the whole range of fiqh
B. are the best for the tafsir of the Qur'an
C. are referred to as Sahihayn
D. have chapters on rewards and punishments
Explanation

Sahih Bukhari and Muslim (Sahihayn, C) comprehensively cover fiqh (A) and eschatology (D), but Tafsir (Qur'an exegesis) is better served by dedicated works like Tabari, as they focus on Hadith authentication over interpretive commentary.

33
Question 33 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

'Uthman b. 'Affan was born to the family of Banu

A. 'Umayyah
B. Quraysh
C. Sa'd
D. Qaynuqah
Explanation

'Uthman, third caliph, belonged to Banu Umayyah clan of Quraysh, known for wealth and trade. His noble lineage and conversion (611 CE) aided Islam's spread, funding expeditions and Qur'an standardization.

34
Question 34 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The first revelation to the Prophet (S.A.W.) is Qur'an chapter

A. 1: 1-7
B. 5: 90-91
C. 96: 1-5
D. 112: 1-4
Explanation

The initial revelation in Hira Cave (610 CE) was Surah al-Alaq verses 1-5 ('Iqra...'), commanding 'Read!' This marked prophethood, emphasizing knowledge, unlike Surah 1 (Fatiha), 5 (prohibitions), or 112 (Tawhid).

35
Question 35 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

The following are authors of Sihah us-Sittah except

A. Ibn Majah
B. Abu Dawud
C. at-Tirmidhi
D. Malik b. Anas
Explanation

Sihah Sittah (Six Authentic Books) include Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, Nasai. Malik's Muwatta is respected but not part of this canon, focusing on Madinan practice rather than comprehensive Hadith collection.

36
Question 36 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

How many times does the word 'A'bud and its derivatives occur in Surat al-Kafirun?

A. Six
B. Seven
C. Eight
D. Nine
Explanation

Surah al-Kafirun (6 verses) uses 'A'bud' (worship) and derivatives six times (verses 2-5: 'I worship not...', emphasizing exclusive worship of Allah, rejecting idolatry, reinforcing monotheism.

37
Question 37 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Abu Sufyan accepted Islam because he

A. was interested in the leadership of the Muslims
B. totally disarmed by Muslim soldiers
C. surprised by the Prophets magnanimity
D. disappointed by his Makkah associates
Explanation

During Makkah's conquest (630 CE), the Prophet's amnesty despite Abu Sufyan's opposition astounded him, leading to conversion. This forgiveness exemplified Rahmah (mercy), transforming adversaries into allies.

38
Question 38 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Excellent or sound traditions are grouped under

A. Musanaf
B. Hasan
C. Sahih
D. Da'if
Explanation

Hasan (sound/good) Hadith have reliable chains with minor defects, acceptable for practice unlike Sahih (perfect), Musnad (Companion-narrated), or Da'if (weak). They provide valuable guidance in fiqh when Sahih unavailable.

39
Question 39 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Truth has come and falsehood has vanished' was uttered by the Prophet (S.A.W.) when

A. he entered the sacred Ka'bah
B. 'Umar embraced Islam
C. he got to the city of Yathrib
D. Islam spread beyond Arabia
Explanation

Upon Fath Makkah (630 CE), entering Ka'bah, the Prophet recited Qur'an 17:81, symbolizing Islam's triumph over Jahiliyyah. This marked polytheism's end, fulfilling prophecy without bloodshed.

40
Question 40 of 40
WAEC · Islamic Religion Studies · 2019

Khalqal 'insana min 'alaq (Q.96:2) is followed by

A. iqra 'warabbuka Alakram
B. kalla inna insana layatgha
C. Alladhi allama bilqalam
D. Inna ila rabbikarruj'
Explanation

Surah al-Alaq sequence: 1. Iqra (read), 2. Created man from clot ('alaq), 3. Who taught by the pen (bil-qalam). This first revelation stresses creation, knowledge, and divine teaching, foundational to prophethood.

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