For candidates preparing for the Provincial Management Services (PMS) exams in Pakistan, Islamiat remains one of the most important compulsory subjects. It is not only highly scoring but also helps showcase a candidate’s understanding of Islamic teachings and their relevance to modern issues. However, those who have studied PMS Islamiat papers from 2015 to 2022 would notice that this paper follows a distinct style of questioning, very different from the CSS Islamiat exam.
In PMS Islamiat, most questions revolve around Qur’anic references, asking candidates to explain verses or discuss a concept based on Islamic teachings. While the topics themselves are often repeated, the focus in PMS is more on explanation, interpretation, and verse-based structure rather than critical essay writing.
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This article focuses on the most expected themes for PMS Islamiat, especially based on PMS 2022 Questions 1 to 6, and provides insight into how candidates should prepare for upcoming papers.
The Purpose of Prophets and the Importance of Muhammad’s (PBUH) Prophethood
One of the most frequently asked questions in PMS Islamiat is about the purpose of sending prophets and how the prophethood of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) differs and is universal.
- Main Purpose: To guide humanity, purify beliefs, and build ethical societies.
- Significance of Muhammad (PBUH): He is the last messenger and a model for all humanity (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:21).
- Universality: Unlike earlier prophets, his message is not limited to a tribe or region but is global (Surah Saba 34:28).
Why it’s expected: PMS 2022 included a full-length question on this theme, and it has been appearing in papers every few years.
Social System in Islam with Examples from the Rightly Guided Caliphs
Islam promotes a strong social structure built on equality, justice, and mutual responsibility. PMS often tests knowledge of Islamic social principles with reference to the era of Khulafa-e-Rashideen.
Key Features
- Equality among believers (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:13).
- Care for orphans, widows, and the needy.
- Rights of neighbours, family, and community members.
Examples
- Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA): Supported the poor during crises.
- Hazrat Umar (RA): Introduced a structured welfare system.
- Hazrat Uthman (RA): Spent generously on public services.
- Hazrat Ali (RA) emphasised justice and public welfare.
Why it’s expected: PMS 2022 Question 2 asked this directly. Similar versions have appeared in previous years.
Ijtihad: Meaning, Types, and Its Modern Importance
Ijtihad, or independent reasoning, is one of the most frequently tested subjects in PMS Islamiat. Its relevance to contemporary times makes it a favorite.
Definition
The effort of a qualified scholar to derive Islamic rulings in matters where direct guidance is not found.
Types
- Qiyas (analogy)
- Istihsan (juristic preference)
- Maslahah (public interest)
- Ijma (consensus)
Modern Need
- Issues like organ donation, online business, digital banking, or artificial intelligence need fresh Islamic rulings.
Why it’s expected: PMS 2020 and 2019 both had questions on Ijtihad. Given today’s changing world, it remains highly relevant.
Islamic Justice System and Its Global Relevance
In today’s world, where justice systems are often criticized for being slow, unfair, or discriminatory, Islamic justice presents a distinct alternative. PMS papers often highlight this subject.
Qur’anic Principles
- Justice is a divine command (Surah An-Nisa 4:135).
- Equality before the law.
- No discrimination based on status or religion.
Historical Models
- The Prophet’s (PBUH) fair treatment of both Muslims and non-Muslims.
- Hazrat Umar (RA) removed corrupt governors in response to public complaints.
- Why it’s universal: Islamic justice is based on moral accountability, not just legal obligation.
Why it’s expected: Several past papers have touched on the judicial system of Islam. The 2021 and 2018 papers covered this from different angles.
Islamic Principles for Foreign Policy
With global tensions rising and Islamic countries facing diplomatic crises, the idea of an Islamic foreign policy has become more significant.
Foundations
- Preference for peace (Surah Al-Anfal 8:61).
- Fulfilling treaties (Surah At-Tawbah 9:4).
- Avoiding aggression (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:190).
Prophetic Practice
- Sending letters of peace to rulers.
- Treaties like Hudaybiyyah.
- Protection for diplomats and minorities.
Why it’s expected: PMS 2022 Q5 asked this in direct words. Given the current global events, this theme is likely to resurface.
Causes and Solutions for the Intellectual Decline of Muslims
Another frequently asked topic is the decline in intellectual and scientific achievements in the Muslim world.
Main Causes
- Blind imitation of the West.
- Lack of research culture.
- Weak education systems.
- Neglect of Ijtihad and critical thinking.
Solutions
- Revive Islamic education with modern subjects.
- Encourage original research and innovation.
- Promote unity and knowledge exchange among Muslim countries.
Why it’s expected: PMS 2022 directly addressed this issue, and it has also been observed in the 2015 and 2016 papers.
Other Likely Topics Based on Trends
Rights of Non-Muslims in Islam
This is one of the most consistent themes. Questions often compare Islamic protections to those in modern constitutions, especially Pakistan’s.
- Refer to the Constitution of Madinah, Treaty of Najran, and Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8).
Women’s Rights in Islam
Especially in PMS 2021, questions on the economic rights of women were directly asked. Focus on:
- Qur’anic verses from Surah An-Nisa,
- Women’s access to education, property, and employment,
- Reforms by the Prophet (PBUH) and Khulafa-e-Rashideen.
Amr Bil Maroof Wa Nahi Anil Munkar
This moral and social principle is frequently discussed in both classical and contemporary contexts.
- Explain its definition.
- Practical implementation challenges in today’s pluralistic societies,
- Its importance in reforming communities.
The Prophet’s (PBUH) Administrative, Military, and Political Roles
Prepare from the Prophet’s Madinah era:
- Charter of Madinah,
- Battles like Badr and Hudaybiyyah
- The justice system he implemented.
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A Balanced Strategy Is the Key
To succeed in PMS Islamiat, candidates must master both classical Islamic knowledge and modern applications. Since PMS examiners often require explanations of Qur’anic verses, it is essential to memorise the translation and theme of key Ayahs, understand their historical background, and relate them to the topic.
Study Tip: Always back your answers with Qur’anic evidence, Hadith references, and examples from the life of the Prophet (PBUH) and the Pious Caliphs. Prepare in a way that combines authentic Islamic sources with current relevance.
By focusing on these expected topics and aligning your preparation with PMS-specific questioning patterns, you can tackle the Islamiat paper with both confidence and competence.
