Cambridge O Level Islamiyat: Major Themes of the Qur'an — Revision Notes (2058)

These revision notes cover Paper 1 Question 1 of Cambridge O Level Islamiyat 2058, Major Themes of the Qur’an. Fifteen passages are set in three groups: Allah in Himself, Allah’s relationship with the created world, and Allah’s Messengers. Three are printed in the exam in Arabic and English and you write on two (8 marks), explaining each passage’s theme and its importance for Muslims today. These notes use quick self-test questions so you can check recall passage by passage.

Syllabus coverage

2058 Paper 1, Topic 1 (syllabus for examination in 2026 and 2027)

• The major theme or themes in each passage
• The importance of these themes in Muslims’ lives today
• Study in a recognised English translation with reference to the Arabic
• Exam: three passages set, choose two

Group 1: Allah in Himself

Sura 2.255 (Ayat al-Kursi) — Which attributes of Allah does it list? Living, self-subsisting, never tired or asleep, owner of all things, all-knowing; none intercedes except by His permission; His Throne extends over the heavens and earth. Why does it matter? Muslims recite it for protection and after prayers, trusting that Allah is always watching over them.

Sura 6.101–103 — What does it deny about Allah? That He has a son or consort. What does it affirm? He originated the heavens and earth, created and knows all things, and no vision can grasp Him. Why does it matter? It rules out shirk and any attempt to picture Allah.

Sura 41.37 — What are the “signs” mentioned? Night, day, sun and moon. What instruction is given? Do not prostrate to the sun or moon but to Allah, their Creator. Why does it matter? Nature points to Allah but must never be worshipped.

Sura 42.4–5 — What picture of Allah’s greatness is given? The heavens almost split apart from above; angels glorify Him and seek forgiveness for those on earth. Which names end the passage? Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. Why does it matter? It balances awe with hope of forgiveness.

Sura 112 (al-Ikhlas) — What four statements does it make? Allah is One; eternal and absolute; neither begets nor is begotten; nothing is comparable to Him. Why does it matter? It is a complete statement of tawhid, recited often in salat.

Group 2: Allah’s relationship with the created world

Sura 1 (al-Fatiha) — What are its three movements? Praise of Allah as Lord, Merciful and Master of the Day of Judgement; a pledge to worship and seek help from Him alone; a request for guidance on the straight path. Why does it matter? It is recited in every rak’a, renewing the relationship between worshipper and Lord.

Sura 2.21–22 — What blessings are named? Creation of people, the earth as a resting place, the sky as a canopy, rain and fruits. What follows from them? Worship Allah and do not set up rivals. Why does it matter? Gratitude and care for the environment.

Sura 96.1–5 — What is special about these verses? They were the first revelation, at the cave of Hira. What do they say? Read in the name of your Lord who created humans from a clinging clot and taught by the pen. Why does it matter? Islam values reading, learning and knowledge.

Sura 99 (al-Zalzala) — What happens to the earth? It quakes, throws out its burdens and reports what was done on it. What is the lesson? Every atom’s weight of good or evil will be seen. Why does it matter? Muslims take small deeds seriously.

Sura 114 (al-Nas) — Whom does the believer seek refuge with? The Lord, King and God of mankind. From what? The whisperer who withdraws, among jinn and people. Why does it matter? It is a prayer for protection from temptation and evil suggestions.

Group 3: Allah’s Messengers

Sura 2.30–37 — What role is Adam given? Khalifa (vicegerent) on earth. How is his knowledge shown? Allah teaches him the names, which the angels did not know. Who refuses to bow and why? Iblis, out of pride. How does the story end? Adam repents and Allah accepts his repentance. Why does it matter? Human responsibility, the danger of pride and the mercy of Allah.

Sura 6.75–79 — What does Ibrahim observe? A star, the moon and the sun, each of which sets. What does he conclude? Only the Creator of the heavens and earth deserves worship. Why does it matter? Reflection on creation leads to tawhid; idols are rejected.

Sura 5.110 — Which favours to Isa are listed? Support of the holy spirit, speaking in the cradle, knowledge of the Book, wisdom, Torah and Gospel, and miracles by Allah’s permission (the clay bird, healing the blind and lepers, raising the dead). Why does it matter? Muslims honour Isa as a prophet, and every miracle depends on Allah’s will.

Sura 93 (al-Duha) — What reassurance is given to the Prophet (pbuh)? His Lord has not left him; the hereafter will be better. Which past favours are recalled? Shelter as an orphan, guidance and provision. What duties follow? Do not oppress orphans or turn away those who ask; speak of Allah’s blessings. Why does it matter? Comfort in hard times and care for the vulnerable.

Sura 108 (al-Kawthar) — What has been given? Abundance. What response is asked? Prayer and sacrifice. What happens to the Prophet’s enemy? He is cut off. Why does it matter? Allah supports His Messenger; links to sacrifice at Eid al-Adha.

Links between passages

• Tawhid: 2.255, 6.101–103, 112, 6.75–79.
• Signs in nature: 41.37, 2.21–22, 6.75–79.
• Mercy and forgiveness: 42.4–5, 2.30–37, al-Fatiha.
• Judgement: 99, al-Fatiha (“Master of the Day of Judgement”).
• Protection: 2.255, 114.
• Care for the Prophet (pbuh): 93, 108.

Using a linked passage in part (b) shows wider understanding.

Common mistakes and exam traps

• Writing everything you know about a prophet. Stay with what the passage says.
• No clear theme sentence. Begin part (a) with “The main theme is…”.
• Generic importance. Tie the application to the passage’s own teaching.

Frequently asked questions

Which passage was the first revelation? Sura 96.1–5.

Which passages are recited in every prayer or very often? Al-Fatiha in every rak’a; al-Ikhlas, al-Nas and Ayat al-Kursi are recited frequently in prayer and supplication.

Related pages

• Major Themes of the Qur’an study guide
• Paper 1 revision notes
• Paper 1 practice questions

Source: Cambridge International, Cambridge O Level Islamiyat 2058 syllabus for examination in 2026 and 2027, Paper 1 Topic 1 and Appendix 1.