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The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Cambridge O Level Islamiyat (2058): Notes, Past Papers, and Revision Strategy

Published on December 22, 2025

The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Cambridge O Level Islamiyat (2058): Notes, Past Papers, and Revision Strategy

The Cambridge O Level Islamiyat (2058) syllabus is a rewarding but challenging journey. For the 2026 examination cycle, students are expected to move beyond rote memorization and demonstrate a deep evaluative understanding of Islamic history and law.

This "Master Guide" serves as your central hub for everything you need to secure an A*, from Paper 1 history to Paper 2 Hadith and exam-day tactics.

1. 2025 Syllabus Overview & Assessment

The course is divided into two compulsory papers, each carrying 50% of the total grade.

  • Paper 1: 1 hour 30 mins (50 Marks). Focuses on the Quran and the Life of the Prophet (PBUH).
  • Paper 2: 1 hour 30 mins (50 Marks). Focuses on Hadiths, the Rightly Guided Caliphs, and Islamic Beliefs.

Pro Tip: In 2026, examiners are placing higher weight on Evaluation (Part b) questions. Don't just learn "what" happened; learn "why" it matters.

2. Paper 1 Mastery: The Quran and the Life of the Prophet (PBUH)

History and Importance of the Quran

The Quran was revealed over 23 years (610–632 AD). Key topics for your revision include:

  • The Revelation: Starting in the Cave of Hira with the first five verses of Surah Al-Alaq.
  • Compilation: The work of Zaid bin Sabit under Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) and the standardization of the dialect under Hazrat Usman (RA).

The Makkan and Madinan Eras

The life of the Prophet (PBUH) is the backbone of Paper 1. You must be able to describe:

  • The Early Persecution: The Boycott of Banu Hashim and the patience of the Companions.
  • The Great Battles: * Badr (2 AH): The first victory for Islam.
    • Uhud (3 AH): A lesson in discipline and obedience.
    • The Trench (5 AH): Defensive strategy using a Khandaq.

3. Paper 2 Excellence: Hadith, Caliphs, and Pillars

The Teachings of the Prophet (Hadith)

You are required to study 20 specific Hadiths. Use the table below to categorize your revision:

ThemeKey TeachingApplication
SincerityActions are by intentionsPurifying the heart before worship.
Social ResponsibilityHelping the needyActively engaging in community service.
ModestyModesty is a branch of faithMaintaining dignity in speech and dress.

The Rightly Guided Caliphs

  • Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA): Saved the state from apostasy and initiated Quranic compilation.
  • Hazrat Umar (RA): Expanded the empire and established administrative departments (Diwan).
  • Hazrat Usman (RA): Standardized the Quran and built the first Muslim navy.
  • Hazrat Ali (RA): Managed internal challenges and civil wars with bravery.

4. Exam Strategy: How to Score an A*

Cracking the 10-Mark Knowledge Question (Part a)

  • Detail is King: Mention specific dates, names of scribes, and battle locations.
  • Use Quotes: Always back your points with a relevant Quranic verse or Hadith.

The 4-Mark Evaluation Gap (Part b)

Part (b) is your opinion. Use these sentence starters to ensure you meet the marking criteria:

  • "This event was significant today because..."
  • "In my opinion, the most important lesson for modern Muslims is..."
  • "The reason this was a turning point for the Ummah was..."

5. Interactive Quiz: Test Your Knowledge

Interactive Quiz: Are You Ready for 2058 Islamiyat?

1. In which year did the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) receive the first revelation in the Cave of Hira?

  • A) 622 AD
  • B) 610 AD (Correct)
  • C) 632 AD
  • D) 570 AD

2. Which companion was appointed by Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) to lead the first compilation of the Quran?

  • A) Zaid bin Sabit (Correct)
  • B) Hazrat Usman (RA)
  • C) Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA)
  • D) Hazrat Umar (RA)

3. The Battle of Badr took place in which year of the Hijri calendar?

  • A) 1 AH
  • B) 2 AH (Correct)
  • C) 3 AH
  • D) 5 AH

4. What was the primary reason for the Battle of the Trench (Khandaq)?

  • A) To conquer Makkah
  • B) To defend Madinah from a confederacy of tribes (Correct)
  • C) To regain lost territory in Uhud
  • D) To stop a trade caravan

5. Which Caliph is known for establishing the first Islamic Navy?

  • A) Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA)
  • B) Hazrat Umar (RA)
  • C) Hazrat Usman (RA) (Correct)
  • D) Hazrat Ali (RA)

6. A "Musnad" Hadith collection is categorized based on:

  • A) The theme or topic (e.g., Prayer, Fasting)
  • B) The geographical location of the narrator
  • C) The name of the companion who narrated it (Correct)
  • D) The length of the Hadith

7. How much Zakat is compulsory on a Muslim’s annual savings?

  • A) 5%
  • B) 10%
  • C) 2.5% (Correct)
  • D) 1%

8. Who were the "Ansar"?

  • A) The migrants from Makkah
  • B) The "Helpers" or residents of Madinah (Correct)
  • C) The enemies of the Prophet (PBUH)
  • D) The scribes of the Quran

9. The Treaty of Hudaibiya was signed for a period of how many years of peace?

  • A) 5 years
  • B) 10 years (Correct)
  • C) 2 years
  • D) 15 years

10. Which pillar of Islam is described as a "shield" against sins?

  • A) Hajj
  • B) Shahadah
  • C) Sawm (Fasting) (Correct)
  • D) Zakat

6. Resource Hub (Downloads & Links)
 

Don't walk into the exam hall unprepared. Use these resources to sharpen your skills:

Islamiyat 2058 Past Papers (June-2025)

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