KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION
WRITTEN EXAMINATION FOR THE POSTS OF PMS OFFICER / AETO BPS-17 (2025)
ISLAMIAT
Deen and Mazhab: In Islamic terminology, "Deen" refers to a complete way of life encompassing all aspects of human existence - spiritual, moral, social, political, and economic. It represents a comprehensive system of beliefs, practices, and laws that govern human life in relation to God, society, and the universe. "Mazhab," on the other hand, typically refers to a school of thought or jurisprudence within Islam, representing different interpretations and methodologies in understanding Islamic law.
Islam as Deen and Mazhab: Islam functions as both a Deen and Mazhab in several ways. As a Deen, it provides a complete framework for life, offering guidance on worship, ethics, social interactions, economic transactions, and governance. It establishes a relationship between humans and their Creator, defining purpose and meaning in life. As a Mazhab, Islam accommodates diversity in interpretation through various schools of jurisprudence (like Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali), allowing for contextual application of Islamic principles while maintaining core unity.
Place of Humanity: In Islamic teachings, humanity occupies a central and honored position. The Quran describes humans as "Ashraful Makhluqat" (the best of creation) and assigns them the role of "Khalifah" (vicegerent) on Earth. This status comes with responsibilities - to worship God, establish justice, maintain balance in creation, and treat all humans with dignity regardless of faith, race, or social status. Islamic teachings emphasize the inherent equality of all humans, protection of human rights, and the importance of serving humanity as a form of worship.
The concept of Ummah (global Muslim community) further highlights the collective responsibility of Muslims toward humanity, promoting values of compassion, justice, and mutual care. The Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) teachings consistently emphasized kindness to all creation, establishing Islam as a religion that elevates human dignity while connecting it to divine purpose.
Concept of Morality (Akhlaq): In Islam, Akhlaq refers to the ethical framework and moral character that should define a Muslim's behavior. It encompasses virtues such as honesty, patience, humility, generosity, justice, and compassion. Islamic morality is not merely a set of rules but an integral part of faith that shapes one's relationship with God, other humans, and all creation.
Reflection in Teachings and Practices: Islamic morality is deeply embedded in both teachings and practices. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes good character, describing the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as having "exalted character." Specific moral teachings include:
- Truthfulness in speech and transactions
- Fulfillment of promises and trusts
- Respect for parents and elders
- Kindness to neighbors and guests
- Care for orphans and the needy
- Justice even toward enemies
- Modesty in behavior and dress
Relationship with Faith (Iman): In Islam, morality and faith are intrinsically connected. The Prophet (PBUH) stated, "I have been sent to perfect good character," indicating that moral excellence is a primary purpose of Islamic teachings. Faith without moral conduct is considered deficient - the Quran repeatedly links belief with righteous actions. Good character is both an expression of genuine faith and a means to strengthen it. Conversely, immoral behavior can weaken faith and distance a person from God's mercy.
This relationship is so fundamental that the Prophet (PBUH) defined righteousness as "good character" and described the best Muslims as those with the best manners. Islamic ethics thus transform faith from mere belief into lived virtue, creating individuals who embody Islamic values in their daily lives and contribute positively to society.
In Islamic thought, human life is guided through the harmonious integration of three primary sources: Wahy (divine revelation), reason (aql), and experience. Together they form a comprehensive framework for understanding truth and making ethical decisions.
Wahy (Divine Revelation): Wahy represents God's direct guidance to humanity through prophets and revealed scriptures, primarily the Quran in Islam. It provides:
- Fundamental truths about God, creation, and the purpose of life
- Moral absolutes and ethical principles
- Guidance on worship and spiritual development
- Legal framework for personal and social conduct
Reason (Aql): Islam highly values human intellect and reasoning capabilities. The Quran repeatedly encourages reflection, critical thinking, and using reason to understand creation and divine signs. Reason enables:
- Understanding and interpreting revelation
- Deriving legal rulings through ijtihad (independent reasoning)
- Analyzing empirical evidence and natural phenomena
- Making ethical judgments in new situations
Experience: Human experience, including historical lessons, personal observations, and collective wisdom, provides practical guidance. The Quran frequently references past nations' experiences as lessons. Experience helps:
- Understand the practical implications of Islamic principles
- Adapt teachings to changing circumstances
- Develop wisdom through trial and reflection
- Appreciate the consequences of actions
Collective Guidance: These three sources work in harmony rather than contradiction. Wahy provides the foundational framework, reason interprets and applies it, and experience tests its practical viability. For example, Islamic economics combines revealed principles with rational analysis of economic systems and experiential knowledge of market behavior. Similarly, Islamic bioethics integrates scriptural guidance with scientific reasoning and medical experience.
This integrated approach prevents extremism - neither blind literalism that rejects reason nor rationalism that dismisses revelation. It creates a balanced methodology that respects divine guidance while acknowledging human capacity for reasoning and learning from experience.
Religion plays a multifaceted role in diverse societies, influencing individual behavior, social cohesion, cultural development, and ethical standards. Its importance and effects can be understood through various dimensions:
Moral and Ethical Foundation: Religion provides a transcendent basis for morality, offering absolute standards of right and wrong that transcend human subjectivity. In diverse societies, shared religious values can create common ethical ground, fostering trust and cooperation among different groups. Religious teachings typically emphasize virtues like honesty, compassion, justice, and respect for others - essential for peaceful coexistence in pluralistic settings.
Social Cohesion and Identity: Religion often serves as a source of collective identity and social bonding. Religious communities provide support networks, foster solidarity, and create spaces for meaningful connection. In diverse societies, religious institutions can bridge differences by emphasizing shared values and common humanity while respecting diversity. The Islamic concept of "Ummah" exemplifies this - a global community united by faith that transcends ethnic, national, and cultural boundaries.
Cultural Enrichment: Religious diversity contributes to cultural richness through varied traditions, art, architecture, literature, and customs. Exposure to different religious practices fosters mutual understanding and appreciation. Islamic civilization historically demonstrated this through its embrace of diverse cultural expressions within a unified spiritual framework.
Challenges and Solutions: While religion can sometimes exacerbate conflicts in diverse societies, its proper understanding and application offer solutions. Key approaches include:
- Emphasizing common ethical principles across traditions
- Promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperation
- Developing religious literacy to reduce prejudice
- Implementing constitutional protections for religious freedom
Islamic Perspective on Religious Diversity: Islam offers a distinctive approach to religious diversity. The Quran explicitly acknowledges religious pluralism as part of God's design ("Had Allah willed, He would have made you one nation"). Islamic principles include:
- Respect for people of all faiths ("There is no compulsion in religion")
- Protection of religious minorities through dhimmi system historically
- Emphasis on common ground with other Abrahamic faiths
- Ethical engagement with differences ("Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction")
When properly understood and practiced, religion becomes a force for harmony in diverse societies, providing moral anchors while encouraging respectful coexistence. The challenge lies in emphasizing the unifying aspects of religious teachings while managing differences constructively.
Fasting (Sawm) during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, obligatory for all adult Muslims with certain exceptions. Its importance extends beyond mere physical abstinence to profound spiritual, moral, and psychological dimensions that significantly impact personality development.
Spiritual Importance:
- God-Consciousness (Taqwa): The primary purpose of fasting, as stated in the Quran, is to develop taqwa - a state of constant awareness of God's presence that motivates righteous conduct.
- Spiritual Purification: Fasting cleanses the soul from negative traits and strengthens connection with the Divine through increased worship and reflection.
- Training for Spiritual Excellence: Ramadan serves as an intensive spiritual training program, cultivating disciplines that should continue throughout the year.
Moral and Ethical Development:
- Self-Restraint: By controlling physical desires, fasting develops willpower and self-discipline applicable to all life areas.
- Empathy and Compassion: Experiencing hunger and thirst fosters understanding of the less fortunate, encouraging charity and social responsibility.
- Truthfulness and Integrity: The fast is between the individual and God, developing sincerity and internal moral compass.
Impact on Personality Development:
- Enhanced Self-Control: Regular practice of fasting strengthens the prefrontal cortex responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
- Patience and Perseverance: Enduring hunger and thirst cultivates sabr (patience), a key Islamic virtue that helps navigate life's challenges.
- Humility and Gratitude: Recognizing physical dependence on sustenance fosters humility and appreciation for blessings often taken for granted.
- Social Consciousness: Collective fasting and emphasis on charity develop concern for community welfare and social justice.
- Balanced Character: Fasting moderates extremes in behavior, creating individuals who are disciplined yet compassionate, firm yet flexible.
Psychological Benefits: Modern psychology confirms many benefits of fasting observed in Islamic tradition:
- Improved mental clarity and focus
- Enhanced emotional regulation
- Reduced anxiety and depression through spiritual practices
- Greater life satisfaction through purposeful living
The comprehensive impact of Islamic fasting creates individuals who are not only spiritually attuned but also psychologically balanced, ethically grounded, and socially responsible. This transformation exemplifies Islam's holistic approach to human development, where physical practices directly contribute to moral and spiritual growth.
Difference Between Hadith and Sunnah:
- Hadith refers to the recorded narrations comprising the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) statements, actions, approvals, or physical characteristics. It is the textual documentation transmitted through chains of narrators.
- Sunnah refers to the actual practices, traditions, and way of life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It represents the lived example and practical implementation of Islamic teachings.
Sunnah as Source of Shariah: Sunnah stands as the second primary source of Islamic law after the Quran. Its authority derives from Quranic injunctions to obey the Prophet (PBUH) and follow his example. As a source of Shariah, Sunnah serves multiple functions:
- Elaborating Quranic Principles: It provides detailed explanation and practical application of general Quranic commandments.
- Establishing Independent Rulings: It introduces laws and guidance not explicitly mentioned in the Quran.
- Specifying General Rules: It qualifies or restricts general Quranic statements where necessary.
- Demonstrating Practical Implementation: It shows how Islamic principles translate into daily life.
Importance in Contemporary Era: In today's complex world, Sunnah remains critically important for several reasons:
- Contextual Guidance: It provides a methodology for applying eternal principles to changing circumstances through the concept of Maqasid al-Shariah (objectives of Islamic law).
- Moral Compass: In an era of moral relativism, Sunnah offers stable ethical standards and character exemplars.
- Countering Extremism: Proper understanding of Sunnah - with its emphasis on moderation, wisdom, and ease - provides antidotes to rigid interpretations.
- Solving Modern Problems: Through ijtihad (independent reasoning), scholars derive solutions to contemporary issues by applying Sunnah's principles to new contexts (bioethics, digital ethics, environmental concerns, etc.).
- Spiritual Nourishment: In materialistic societies, Sunnah's spiritual practices offer meaning and connection beyond consumerism.
- Interfaith Understanding: The Prophet's exemplary character and interactions with non-Muslims provide models for peaceful coexistence.
The ongoing relevance of Sunnah demonstrates Islam's capacity to address modern challenges while maintaining continuity with tradition. Its proper application requires understanding both the letter and spirit of prophetic teachings, balancing fidelity to sources with contextual sensitivity.
The Islamic political system represents a distinctive approach to governance based on Quranic principles and prophetic traditions, with significant implications for democratic systems.
Foundations of Islamic Political System:
- Sovereignty of God (Hakimiyyah): Ultimate authority belongs to God alone, with human rulers exercising delegated authority within divine limits.
- Vicegerency (Khilafah): Humans are God's representatives on earth, entrusted with establishing justice and moral order.
- Consultation (Shura): Collective decision-making through consultation is mandated for community affairs.
- Justice (Adl): Establishing justice is the primary purpose of Islamic governance.
- Accountability: Rulers are accountable to God and the community, with mechanisms for counsel and correction.
Key Institutions in Classical Islamic Governance:
- Caliph/Imam: The head of state, selected through consultation, responsible for implementing Shariah and protecting community interests.
- Shura Council: Advisory body representing various community segments.
- Judiciary (Qada): Independent judicial system applying Islamic law.
- Hisbah: Institution ensuring public morality and market regulations.
Impact on and Relationship with Democracy: The relationship between Islamic political thought and democracy is complex, with areas of convergence and tension:
- Shared Values: Both systems emphasize consultation, accountability, rule of law, and protection of rights.
- Different Foundations: Democracy bases sovereignty in the people, while Islamic governance places ultimate sovereignty with God.
- Compatibility Debates: Modern Muslim thinkers have different perspectives:
- Compatibility View: Scholars like Rashid al-Ghannushi argue that democratic mechanisms (elections, parliament, separation of powers) are compatible with Islamic principles and can operationalize Shura.
- Critical Engagement: Others like Tariq Ramadan advocate for "critical participation" - engaging with democracy while Islamizing its values and practices.
- Alternative Model: Some Islamist movements propose distinct Islamic systems as alternatives to Western democracy.
Contemporary Applications: Modern Muslim-majority countries demonstrate various approaches:
- Constitutional Islamism: Countries like Iran and Pakistan incorporate Islamic principles within constitutional frameworks.
- Islamic Democracy: Tunisia and Indonesia show how democratic systems can operate within Muslim cultural contexts.
- Monarchical Systems: Gulf states combine traditional governance with consultative mechanisms.
Contributions to Democratic Theory: Islamic political thought offers valuable insights for democratic development:
- Emphasis on moral foundations of politics
- Integration of spiritual and temporal dimensions
- Protection of minority rights through dhimmi system historically
- Concept of community welfare (maslaha) as governance objective
The ongoing evolution of Islamic political systems reflects creative engagement with democratic ideas while maintaining distinctive Islamic values. This dialogue enriches both Islamic and democratic thought, potentially contributing to more ethical and inclusive governance models globally.
The global Muslim community (Ummah) faces numerous complex challenges in the contemporary era, spanning political, social, economic, and intellectual dimensions. These issues require thoughtful analysis and collective response.
Political Challenges:
- Foreign Intervention and Geopolitical Manipulation: Many Muslim-majority regions experience external interference, resource exploitation, and geopolitical rivalries that undermine sovereignty and stability.
- Authoritarian Regimes: Widespread authoritarian governance stifles political participation, violates rights, and fuels discontent, often justified through selective use of Islamic discourse.
- Sectarian Conflicts: Political rivalries often manifest as sectarian tensions, fragmenting Muslim societies and diverting attention from genuine development challenges.
- Occupation and Displacement: Ongoing conflicts in Palestine, Kashmir, Myanmar, and elsewhere have created humanitarian crises and political impasses.
- Terrorism and Extremism: Violent extremism claiming Islamic justification has caused immense suffering while distorting Islam's image globally.
Social Issues:
- Educational Deficiencies: Many Muslim societies struggle with outdated educational systems that fail to balance traditional knowledge with modern sciences, contributing to intellectual stagnation.
- Gender Justice Debates: Complex discussions around women's rights, with tensions between patriarchal traditions, modernist reforms, and authentic Islamic teachings on gender equity.
- Youth Discontent: Large youth populations face unemployment, identity crises, and limited opportunities, making them vulnerable to radicalization or alienation.
- Cultural Globalization Pressures: Balancing preservation of Islamic identity with engagement in global culture creates generational and ideological tensions.
- Intellectual Crisis: Stagnation in ijtihad (independent reasoning) and over-reliance on historical interpretations hinder creative responses to contemporary challenges.
Economic Challenges:
- Economic Dependency: Many Muslim countries remain economically dependent on natural resources or external aid, with limited industrial or knowledge-based development.
- Wealth Disparity: Extreme inequality contradicts Islamic principles of economic justice and zakat (wealth redistribution).
- Corruption: Rampant corruption undermines development and erodes public trust in institutions.
Intellectual and Ideological Issues:
- Reform vs. Tradition Tensions: Polarization between rigid traditionalism and uncritical modernism prevents balanced development of Islamic thought.
- Identity Crisis: Confusion about authentic Islamic identity in a globalized world, leading to either defensive isolation or excessive assimilation.
- Media Representation: Pervasive negative stereotyping of Muslims in global media affects social integration and self-perception.
Pathways Forward: Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive approaches:
- Reviving ijtihad to develop contemporary Islamic solutions
- Promoting educational reform that integrates Islamic and modern knowledge
- Strengthening intra-Muslim dialogue and cooperation
- Developing authentic Islamic responses to modernity that avoid both rejectionism and uncritical adoption
- Empowering civil society and grassroots movements
- Reclaiming Islamic narratives from extremists through scholarly and community efforts
The diversity within the Muslim Ummah - spanning different cultures, political systems, and interpretations - represents both a challenge and potential strength. Harnessing this diversity through principles of unity in essentials and flexibility in non-essentials could enable more effective responses to contemporary challenges while remaining faithful to Islamic principles.
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