Articles of faith/ Q4/P2

• Tauheed
• Angels
• Divine Books

By:
Hafiz Syed Farooq
Tauheed [Past paper Questions]
Tauheed Mark Scheme.
Tauheed Answer [10]
Tawhid, the oneness of Allah, is the central tenet of Islam and serves as the foundation of a Muslim’s faith. This profound belief
underscores the absolute unity, uniqueness, and incomparability of Allah, who is free from any form of association,
partnership, or dependency. Tawhid has been the universal message of every prophet, from Hazrat Nuh (A.S) and Hazrat
Ibrahim (A.S) to Hazrat Musa (A.S), Hazrat Isa (A.S), and the final messenger, Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH). The Quran succinctly
encapsulates this concept in Surah Ikhlas: “Say! He is Allah, The One and Only” (112:1). This verse reinforces the absolute
singularity of Allah, a reality recognized inherently by all creation. The Quran further emphasizes that Allah has no equals or
partners, refuting any notions of familial ties or shared divinity: “Glory be to Him above having a son. To Him belong all things
in the heavens and on earth” (4:171). This belief elevates Allah as the sole creator and sustainer of the universe, positioning
Him as the ultimate authority over all existence. Through Tawhid, Muslims understand their purpose in life and their role as
Allah’s servants, committed to upholding His laws and worshiping Him alone.
Tawhid in Lordship (Tawhid al-Rububiyyah)
Tawhid al-Rububiyyah affirms Allah’s sole authority as the creator, sustainer, and cherisher of all creation. This aspect of Tawhid
highlights that Allah alone brings creation into existence, nurtures it, and governs it with perfect wisdom and justice. The
Quran emphasizes this in Surah Al-Fatiha: “All praises be to Allah, The Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds” (1:1). This verse
signifies that Allah’s lordship encompasses all realms—physical and spiritual, worldly and eternal. The Quran reiterates that no
one shares in His dominion or power: “None has the right to be worshipped but He, the creator of all things” (6:102). Allah’s
supreme role as the maintainer of the universe is further reinforced: “No slumber can seize Him nor sleep” (2:255). Unlike His
creation, Allah’s authority is perfect and unchanging, extending beyond this world to the Hereafter, as stated: “Master of the
Day of Judgment” (1:3). Belief in Allah’s unparalleled lordship guides Muslims to place complete trust in Him, recognizing that
every blessing and trial stems from His divine will. This trust strengthens their relationship with Allah, fostering a reliance on
His wisdom in all aspects of life.
Tawhid in Worship (Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah)
Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah emphasizes that Allah alone is deserving of all forms of worship, devotion, and submission. This includes acts such as
prayer (salah), gratitude, reliance (tawakkul), and supplication (dua), all of which must be directed exclusively to Allah
The Quran commands this singular devotion: “We do worship You and Your aid we seek” (1:5). Associating any partners with Allah in
worship, known as shirk, is considered the gravest sin in Islam, fundamentally violating the principle of Tawhid. Surah Ikhlas highlights this
exclusivity: “He begets not; nor is He begotten” (112:3), rejecting any notion of Allah having a partner, offspring, or dependency. Tawhid al-
Uluhiyyah instills humility in Muslims, reminding them of their role as servants of Allah and their reliance on Him for guidance, protection,
and sustenance. This belief eliminates any form of idolatry, superstition, or misplaced reliance on worldly powers, directing Muslims toward
a life of sincerity and purpose. Through Tawhid, Muslims are inspired to fulfill their obligations with devotion, seeking Allah’s pleasure in all
aspects of life and avoiding actions that compromise their faith.

Tawhid in Names and Attributes (Tawhid al-Asma wa Sifat)

Tawhid al-Asma wa Sifat pertains to the acknowledgment of Allah’s unique names and attributes as described in the Quran and Sunnah.
These attributes, such as omnipotence, omniscience, and eternal existence, belong solely to Allah and are free from any imperfection or
comparison. Allah is described as “The All-Knower of everything” (2:29) and “The One that hears and sees all things” (42:11). Muslims affirm
these qualities without misinterpreting, denying, or likening them to human characteristics. For instance, while Allah is “The Most Merciful”
(Ar-Rahman), His mercy transcends human understanding, reflecting His infinite compassion and justice. The Quran declares: “There is
nothing whatever like unto Him; and He is the One that hears and sees all things” (42:11), affirming Allah’s uniqueness in every aspect.
Despite human limitations in comprehending Allah’s essence, understanding His names and attributes deepens a Muslim’s connection with
Him. This recognition fosters love, reverence, and awe, encouraging Muslims to emulate His attributes of mercy, justice, and kindness in their
interactions with others.

Conclusion
Tawhid, in its comprehensive form, encapsulates Allah’s oneness in essence, actions, worship, and attributes. It is not merely a theoretical
concept but a transformative belief that influences every aspect of a Muslim’s life. Tawhid guides Muslims to worship Allah sincerely, place
their trust in Him, and live with accountability, knowing they will return to Him. It shapes their moral and ethical conduct, fostering humility,
gratitude, and reliance on Allah. Through Tawhid, Muslims recognize the greatness of Allah, find peace in His guidance, and draw strength
from their unwavering faith in His divine will
Importance of Tauheed and Its Impact on a Muslim's Life

• Foundation of Faith: Tauheed (belief in the oneness of Allah) is the cornerstone of Islam. It forms the basis
of a Muslim’s faith, making all acts of worship meaningful and acceptable to Allah.
• Sense of Purpose: Tauheed gives life purpose and direction, as a Muslim recognizes their ultimate goal is to
worship and obey Allah alone. This motivates them to lead a life aligned with divine guidance.
• Moral Uprightness: Belief in Tauheed fosters strong ethical and moral behavior, as Muslims are constantly
aware of Allah’s omnipresence and accountability to Him for every action.
• Inner Peace: Recognizing Allah as the sole sustainer and controller of the universe provides comfort,
reducing stress and anxiety about worldly matters. This belief instills trust in Allah's divine wisdom and
mercy.
• Unity and Brotherhood: Tauheed unites Muslims under one Creator, promoting equality and discouraging
discrimination based on race, wealth, or status. This strengthens bonds within the Muslim community.
• Rejection of Shirk and Superstitions: Tauheed eliminates dependence on idols, false deities, or
superstitions, encouraging Muslims to rely solely on Allah for help and guidance.
• Motivation for Good Deeds: Awareness that Allah alone rewards and punishes inspires Muslims to perform
good deeds sincerely, seeking only His pleasure, without expecting worldly recognition.
• Detachment from Materialism: Belief in Allah’s supremacy and provision helps Muslims prioritize spiritual
growth over material pursuits, leading to a balanced and contented life.
Angels [Past paper Questions]
Angels/Mark Scheme
Angels Answer
Belief in angels is a fundamental article of Islamic faith and an essential component of Iman-e-Mufassil. It reflects the
acknowledgment of Allah’s unseen creation and His divine order. The Quran underscores its importance: “O you who believed,
believe in Allah and His Messenger and the Book that He sent down upon His Messenger, and whoever disbelieves in Allah, His
angels, His books, His Messengers, and the Last Day has certainly gone far astray” (4:136). Angels are extraordinary creations
of Allah, formed from divine light, as mentioned in Hadith: “The angels were created from light…” (Muslim). They remain
unseen by humans except on rare occasions, such as when Hazrat Jibrael (A.S.) appeared before the Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) in human form during the famous Hadith of Jibrael. Angels are distinct from humans; they are genderless, possess no
free will, and exist solely to carry out Allah’s commands. The Quran repudiates the pre-Islamic Arab belief that angels were
daughters of Allah, stating: “And they make the angels themselves slaves of The Most Gracious (Allah), females. Did they
witness their creation? Their testimony will be recorded, and they will be questioned” (43:19). Unlike humans, angels neither
eat, drink, nor sleep. They are perpetually engaged in acts of worship and obedience, as highlighted by the Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH): “Seventy thousand angels enter the Bait-ul-Mamur every day, never to return until the Day of Judgment”
(Bukhari). Their absolute submission is reflected in the Quran: “…who disobey not the commands they receive from Allah, but
do that which they are commanded” (66:6).

The duties of angels signify their vital role in maintaining the divine system and balance of the universe. They are Allah’s
messengers and executors of His commands. Among them, Hazrat Jibrael (A.S.), the chief archangel, is entrusted with
delivering revelations to prophets, including the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Known as Ruh-ul-Qudus (The Holy
Spirit) and Ruh-ul-Ameen (The Trustworthy Spirit), Jibrael’s pivotal role is highlighted in Surah Ash-Shu’ara: “And truly this
(Quran) is a revelation from the Lord of the Worlds, which the Ruh-ul-Ameen (Jibrael) has brought down” (26:192-193). Jibrael
also accompanied the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the Night of Ascension (Shab-e-Mairaj), illustrating his unparalleled
status among angels. Hazrat Izrael (A.S.), known as the Angel of Death, is responsible for taking the souls of the living, a task
performed with mercy for believers and severity for disobedient individuals. The Quran mentions: “Say: The angel of death,
who is set over you, will take your souls; then you shall be brought to your Lord” (32:11).
Another significant angel, Hazrat Israfil (A.S.), is tasked with blowing the trumpet that will mark the end of the world and the
commencement of the Day of Judgment. His readiness reflects the closeness of this divine event. Hazrat Mikail (A.S.), another
prominent angel, manages natural phenomena like rainfall, the distribution of sustenance, and blessings upon the earth.
Additional angels include Kiraman Katibeen, who document every individual’s deeds: “(They are) noble and recording; they know
whatever you do” (82:11-12). In the grave, Munkar and Nakir question the deceased about their faith, a critical moment in the
afterlife journey. Rizwan, the keeper of Paradise, and Malik, the guardian of Hellfire, further exemplify the angels’ diverse
responsibilities. Each angel’s role underscores their dedication to implementing Allah’s will and maintaining the order of His
creation.

Belief in angels profoundly influences a Muslim’s daily life and mindset. The knowledge that Kiraman Katibeen record every
action fosters mindfulness and encourages virtuous behavior while deterring sinful deeds. Muslims strive for sincerity, knowing
their actions are being documented and will be presented on the Day of Judgment: “And the record (of deeds) will be placed, and
you will see the criminals fearful of that within it” (18:49). The presence of angels also brings comfort and reassurance. Reciting
verses like Ayat-ul-Kursi invokes the protection of angels, who guard believers from harm. Angels play a pivotal role in moments
of spiritual significance, such as Lailat-ul-Qadr (The Night of Power), during which they descend in abundance to shower Allah’s
mercy upon the faithful: “The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter” (97:4).
Historically, angels have intervened to aid Muslims in critical situations. At the Battle of Badr, Allah sent 1,000 angels to support
the believers: “(Remember) when you sought help of your Lord and He answered you: ‘I will help you with a thousand of the
angels, ranks on ranks’” (8:9). This divine assistance not only strengthened the Muslims but also demonstrated the role of angels
as protectors and executors of Allah’s will. Angels also serve as a constant reminder of Allah’s majesty and the intricate system
governing the universe. Their continuous glorification of Allah, as stated in the Quran—“They exalt Him night and day and do not
slacken” (21:20)—inspires Muslims to remain steadfast in their worship and obedience. Moreover, the belief in Munkar and
Nakir’s grave questioning instills accountability, urging Muslims to uphold their faith and lead a righteous life.
In conclusion, belief in angels enriches a Muslim’s understanding of Allah’s greatness and the unseen realities of creation. It
emphasizes accountability, encourages righteous behavior, and fosters trust in Allah’s protection and mercy. By acknowledging
Divine Books Past papers with mark scheme
Divine Books/Answer
Belief in the divine books is one of the key pillars of Islamic faith. It reflects the fundamental understanding that Allah, in His mercy
and wisdom, has revealed His guidance to humanity through sacred scriptures across time. These books were not merely historical
texts, but divine communications meant to illuminate the paths of righteousness and guide people toward obedience to Allah. The
Quran highlights the importance of belief in these books, stating: “O you who believe, believe in Allah and His Messenger and the Book
that He sent down upon His Messenger, and whoever disbelieves in Allah, His angels, His books, His Messengers, and the Last Day has
certainly gone far astray” (4:136). The belief in divine books is, therefore, a necessary component of Iman, or faith, as it forms an
integral part of the believer’s understanding of Allah’s communication with humanity.
The Quran mentions several key divine scriptures, each of which was revealed to different prophets to guide their communities.
Among the books revealed are the Suhuf (scrolls) to Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S.), the Torah to Hazrat Musa (A.S.), the Psalms (Zabur) to
Hazrat Daud (A.S.), and the Gospel (Injeel) to Hazrat Isa (A.S.). These books were sent to specific communities, each containing divine
wisdom suited to the needs and circumstances of the time. The Quran itself is the final and most complete revelation, sent to Hazrat
Muhammad (PBUH), and it serves as the culmination of all previous scriptures. The Quran acknowledges these earlier books,
confirming their divine origin and purpose, while also emphasizing the finality of the Quran as the ultimate guidance for all humanity:
“Indeed, We sent down the Torah, in which was guidance and light” (5:44).
Purpose and Message of the Divine Books
The central aim of all the divine books was to guide humanity toward righteousness, to clarify moral conduct, and to establish clear
laws on how to live a life that is pleasing to Allah. These scriptures emphasized monotheism, the belief in the oneness of Allah, and
the rejection of polytheism and false gods. The divine books outlined humanity’s relationship with Allah and set the framework for
moral and ethical behavior. However, the messages in these earlier books were often specific to certain nations and times, and over
the centuries, these scriptures were subject to alteration and distortion. The Quran warns against this corruption: “Then woe to those
who write the book with their own hands and then say, ‘This is from Allah,’ to purchase with it a small price” (2:79). This highlights the
challenge of preserving the original message, with many divine books becoming altered over time. The Christian doctrine of the
Trinity, for example, deviated from the original teachings of Hazrat Isa (A.S.). Unlike these earlier texts, the Quran remains unaltered
and preserved as the exact word of Allah. Allah promises its protection in Surah Al-Hijr: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Quran,
and indeed, We will be its guardian” (15:9). This promise assures Muslims that the Quran has remained unchanged from the time of
its revelation and will continue to be protected until the Day of Judgment.
The Quran serves as the final and complete scripture, free from the distortions that affected earlier divine books. The Quran’s universality
also sets it apart from the previous scriptures, as it was not revealed for a specific community or time period but is intended for all of
humanity.
The Quran’s Superiority and Completeness
While the Quran affirms the earlier books and acknowledges their divine origin, it also supersedes them due to the limitations of their
messages, which were meant for specific peoples and times. The Quran is the final revelation from Allah, intended to guide all of humanity,
addressing the needs of individuals across every era. The Quran is described as a complete code of life, providing comprehensive guidance
on every aspect of existence, from acts of worship to social, moral, and legal matters. The Quran itself declares: “Verily, this Quran guides to
that which is most just and right” (17:9). The teachings of the Quran unify the messages of earlier books, perfecting and refining them by
emphasizing universal principles such as justice, righteousness, and the worship of the one true God.
Muslims hold the Quran in unparalleled reverence, not only as a scripture to believe in but as a book to be recited, understood, and
followed in daily life. Every verse of the Quran is viewed as a direct communication from Allah, providing guidance for every aspect of
human life. The Quran’s message is clear, timeless, and relevant to people of all times and places. It calls on Muslims to submit to Allah’s
will in every aspect of life, whether in personal conduct, family matters, or social interactions. The Quran encourages believers to uphold
justice, practice charity, and live lives of sincerity, honesty, and kindness. As the final and unaltered scripture, the Quran offers spiritual and
moral guidance that transcends the limitations of earlier scriptures.
The Role of the Quran as the Ultimate Source of Guidance
The Quran’s message is not just confined to religious rituals but extends to all aspects of life. It is a source of moral and spiritual
development, a guide to achieving a life of peace, justice, and fulfillment. The Quran’s comprehensive nature ensures that Muslims are
equipped with everything they need to navigate the challenges of life and to build a society that upholds righteousness and moral integrity.
As the ultimate source of guidance, the Quran is a book of eternal wisdom that holds the key to understanding Allah’s will for humanity. Its
messages of compassion, mercy, and justice are as relevant today as they were at the time of its revelation.

In conclusion, belief in the divine books is an essential component of a Muslim’s faith, emphasizing the importance of the Quran as the final
revelation from Allah. While earlier scriptures were meant for specific peoples and were eventually altered, the Quran remains unaltered
and serves as the ultimate guidance for all of humanity. The Quran encapsulates the divine messages of previous scriptures, perfecting
them and offering a comprehensive code of life for Muslims to follow. Through the Quran, Muslims are guided toward a path of
Prophets Past Papers with mark scheme
Prophets
Prophets’ Answer
Belief in the Prophets is one of the core principles of Islam, emphasizing the role of Allah’s chosen individuals in conveying His messages to humanity.
These Prophets were sent by Allah to guide people toward righteousness, obedience, and faith in the One true God. The Quran makes it clear that rejecting
any one of the Prophets is equivalent to rejecting the path of faith itself. Allah states in Surah An-Nisa: “Whoever disbelieves in Allah, His angels, His books,
His Messengers, and the Last Day has certainly gone far astray” (4:136). This highlights the critical importance of acknowledging all Prophets and their
divine missions. Prophets were not divine beings but human, with all the experiences and challenges that accompany human life. They ate, lived among
their people, and communicated in the language of their nations: “We never sent a messenger save with the language of his folk” (14:4). Despite their
humanity, these Prophets were distinguished by their moral perfection, unwavering faith, and complete submission to the will of Allah.
The Purpose of Prophethood
The primary mission of every Prophet was to call people to the oneness of Allah (Tawhid), guide them toward righteous living, and deliver Allah’s
revelations, which were often in the form of scriptures. Prominent Prophets such as Hazrat Musa (A.S.), Hazrat Isa (A.S.), and Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH)
were given books that guided their respective communities, including the Torah, the Gospel (Injeel), and the Quran. These scriptures served as divine
blueprints for living a life of justice, piety, and obedience to Allah. Prophets were not just messengers but role models for their followers, exemplifying
values such as honesty, patience, and courage. Their lives were a practical demonstration of the faith they preached. Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), in
particular, brought finality and completeness to Allah’s message, as mentioned in the Quran: “Muhammad is the messenger of Allah and the seal of the
Prophets” (33:40). This statement affirms that after Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), no new Prophet would come, and his teachings would remain as the final
guidance for humanity.
Miracles as Signs of Prophethood
Each Prophet was endowed with miracles to affirm their divine mission and to serve as signs for their communities. These miracles were divine acts that
demonstrated Allah’s power and the authenticity of the Prophets’ messages. For example, Hazrat Musa (A.S.) was granted the miracle of parting the Red
Sea, which saved the Israelites from Pharaoh’s army. Hazrat Isa (A.S.) performed extraordinary miracles such as healing the sick, giving sight to the blind,
and even raising the dead. Hazrat Nuh (A.S.) was saved from the flood that destroyed disbelievers, and Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S.) emerged unharmed from the
fire of Nimrod. Hazrat Yunus (A.S.) was miraculously preserved inside the belly of a whale for three days and nights. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also
performed numerous miracles, including the splitting of the moon and the Isra and Mi'raj, a miraculous night journey and ascension to the heavens.
Despite the miracles, these Prophets faced immense trials, rejection, and persecution. Hazrat Nuh (A.S.) was mocked for his ark, and Hazrat Musa (A.S.)
faced the tyranny of Pharaoh. Even with these challenges, the Prophets remained steadfast in their faith, providing timeless lessons in perseverance and
trust in Allah.
Prophets as Reformers
Prophets were not only spiritual guides but also social reformers. They worked to transform their societies by teaching people about justice, equality,
compassion, and moral conduct. Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) is particularly noted for bringing profound social change to the Arabian Peninsula,
where tribal injustices and inequalities were rampant. He advocated for the rights of women, the poor, and the oppressed, and he
established laws that promoted fairness and mercy. Prophets also emphasized key practices such as prayer (Salah), fasting (Sawm),
charity (Zakat), and ethical behavior in social interactions. Their teachings encouraged the eradication of idolatry, oppression, and
corruption in their respective societies. The Quran summarizes this aspect of their mission in Surah Al-Anbiya: “And We sent not before
you any messenger but men to whom We revealed” (21:7). This highlights that all the Prophets shared a common purpose: to guide
their people to the worship of one God and to establish moral and social order.
Prophets and Divine Guidance Across Time
Each Prophet’s mission was unique, tailored to the specific needs of their community. However, their message was always consistent: to
worship Allah alone and live according to His commands. Prophets provided the moral and legal frameworks necessary for societies to
function in a just and pious manner. Their teachings emphasized submission to Allah’s will and promoted the idea of social justice,
compassion, and community well-being. The Quran and Hadiths emphasize the continuity of this divine guidance. Belief in the Prophets
unites Muslims, as they recognize that Allah’s mercy has been continuously bestowed upon humanity through the sending of Prophets.
This continuity culminated in the final revelation given to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), completing the guidance for all mankind.
The Legacy of Prophethood
The Prophets left behind legacies of righteousness, moral excellence, and unwavering faith in Allah. They established divine laws and
ethical teachings that transcend time, shaping the moral framework of Islam. By following the examples of the Prophets, Muslims strive
to emulate their qualities of honesty, patience, courage, and submission to Allah. The belief in Prophethood serves to strengthen a
Muslim’s connection with Allah, as it emphasizes the mercy and guidance that has been sent to humanity throughout history. The
Quran, as the final revelation, reinforces the importance of accepting and following the teachings of all Prophets, for they form the core
of Islamic faith and practice.
In conclusion, belief in the Prophets is central to Islamic faith. Prophets were the chosen ones who conveyed Allah’s guidance to
humanity, and their lives serve as models of righteousness. Their mission was to teach the oneness of Allah and guide societies toward
moral excellence. The miracles granted to them affirmed their divine missions, and their teachings continue to inspire and guide
Muslims today. Through belief in the Prophets, Muslims acknowledge the continuity of divine guidance and the mercy of Allah,
culminating in the final message of the Quran
Midterm Exam Syllabus
Midterm Exam Syllabus