Recommended Textbooks for Islamic Studies For 2027 Jamb, Complete Reading List for UTME Candidates

Candidates preparing for the 2027 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) should use textbooks that cover the Islamic Religious Studies syllabus, particularly the Qur’an, Hadith, Islamic beliefs, jurisprudence, moral teachings, the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Islamic history and the contributions of Islam to education.

JAMB’s Islamic Religious Studies syllabus contains a recommended reading list of textbooks written by established Islamic scholars and authors. These books provide explanations of the topics candidates are expected to understand before sitting for the examination. They cover different areas of the subject, including Qur’anic interpretation, Islamic law, the history of Islam, the preservation of the Qur’an and the development of Islamic civilisation in West Africa.

For the 2027 UTME, candidates can use the following 19 recommended titles as their reading guide. However, there is an important distinction: the current JAMB IBASS syllabus contains this reading list, but the document is not separately labelled as a newly revised 2027 textbook list. Candidates should therefore check the latest syllabus available through JAMB’s Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) before purchasing books, in case the Board makes an update.

Buying every recommended textbook is not necessary for effective preparation. Candidates should select books that cover the syllabus comprehensively, use specialised titles for difficult topics and practise questions regularly.

Complete List of JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Islamic Studies 2027

The following are the 19 recommended titles appearing in the Islamic Religious Studies reading list in the current JAMB syllabus.

These titles are reproduced from the recommended reading list in the current JAMB Islamic Religious Studies syllabus. Some bibliographic details, particularly the spelling of authors’ names and the publication details of older editions, may appear differently in book catalogues. Candidates should check the actual book title and author before buying.

Why JAMB Recommended Textbooks Matter for Islamic Studies

Studying Islamic Studies for JAMB requires more than memorising definitions and religious facts. Candidates must understand the teachings of the Qur’an and Hadith, recognise important historical events, interpret selected verses and apply Islamic principles to different situations.

The recommended textbooks provide additional explanations that help candidates understand these areas.

The syllabus establishes what candidates should study, while textbooks provide the background knowledge and examples needed to understand the subject.

For example, a candidate studying the preservation of the Glorious Qur’an needs to understand how the revelations were recorded, collected and standardised. A candidate studying Hadith must understand the difference between Isnad and Matn and how Hadith are classified.

Reading the appropriate books makes it easier to understand these concepts rather than memorising isolated information.

Recommended textbooks also help candidates:

• Understand the meaning and interpretation of selected Qur’anic verses.

• Learn the history and development of Islamic scholarship.

• Understand the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

• Identify the contributions of the Rightly Guided Caliphs.

• Study the principles of Islamic law and jurisprudence.

• Understand the influence of Islam on West African societies.

• Prepare for questions requiring explanations, comparisons and historical analysis.

However, candidates should avoid treating every sentence in a recommended book as a possible examination question. Their reading should remain connected to the objectives and topics in the JAMB syllabus.

The Best JAMB Islamic Studies Textbooks to Start With

Although JAMB provides several recommended titles, candidates do not need to read all 19 books from cover to cover. Some titles are more directly useful for particular syllabus areas.

A practical approach is to begin with general Islamic Studies textbooks and then consult specialised books for Qur’anic interpretation, Tajwid, Islamic law and history.

1. Studies in Islam Series Book 2 and Book 3 by M.O.A. Abdul

Recommended authors: M.O.A. Abdul | Publisher: IPB

The two books in the Studies in Islam series are among the recommended resources candidates can consider when preparing for Islamic Religious Studies.

They provide a foundation for understanding Islamic teachings and different areas of religious knowledge.

Candidates can use them to support their study of Islamic beliefs, religious practices, moral responsibilities and the relationship between Islamic teachings and everyday life.

The two titles should be checked against the topics in the examination syllabus to determine which sections are relevant to the candidate’s preparation.

Since the books were published in earlier decades, candidates should also use the current syllabus to identify any areas that require additional explanations.

2. The Classical Caliphate by M.O.A. Abdul

Publication year: 1988 | Publisher: IPB

The Classical Caliphate is a useful recommended title for candidates studying the early political and administrative development of the Muslim community.

The history of the caliphate is relevant to the JAMB syllabus, particularly the section on the Rightly Guided Caliphs, known as Al-Khulafa’ur Rashidun.

Candidates should understand the leadership of:

• Abu Bakr As-Siddiq.

• Umar ibn al-Khattab.

• Uthman ibn Affan.

• Ali ibn Abi Talib.

When studying this area, pay attention to the background of each leader, the circumstances surrounding their leadership, their major contributions and their influence on the development of Islam.

Candidates should also understand how the early Muslim community was administered and the challenges faced by the different caliphs.

3. The Holy Qur’an Text: Translation and Commentary by A.Y. Ali

Publication year: 1975 | Publisher: The Islamic Foundation

This is one of the important recommended resources for candidates preparing for the Qur’anic aspects of Islamic Studies.

The book provides the Arabic text of the Qur’an alongside translation and commentary. Its content can help candidates understand selected passages and the meanings of different Qur’anic teachings.

The JAMB syllabus requires candidates to study specific surahs and verses, translate selected passages, identify their lessons and explain their teachings.

Candidates should concentrate on the prescribed portions rather than attempting to memorise the entire Qur’an for the examination.

The book can also support the study of Qur’anic guidance on honesty, justice, respect for parents, social responsibility and other moral issues.

4. The Religion of Islam by M.M. Ali

Author: M.M. Ali | Publication details: Lahore

The Religion of Islam is another recommended title that candidates can use to develop a broader understanding of Islamic teachings.

It is relevant to the study of fundamental Islamic beliefs, religious obligations and the principles that guide Muslim life.

Candidates can use general Islamic religious texts to strengthen their understanding of concepts that appear throughout the syllabus, including Tawhid, worship, moral conduct and the relationship between religious beliefs and social responsibilities.

When reading this book, candidates should identify explanations that relate directly to the JAMB examination objectives.

5. Shariah: The Islamic Law by A.R.I. Doi

Publication year: 1997 | Publisher: Noordeen

Candidates studying Islamic jurisprudence should pay attention to this recommended textbook.

Shariah refers to the principles and guidance of Islamic law. The subject covers different aspects of religious and social life, including worship, family responsibilities, transactions and moral conduct.

The JAMB Islamic Studies syllabus includes the sources of Islamic law and the founders of the Sunni schools of jurisprudence.

Candidates should understand the four major sources of Islamic law:

1. The Glorious Qur’an.

2. The Sunnah.

3. Ijma, which means scholarly consensus.

4. Qiyas, which means analogical reasoning.

They should also study the biographies and contributions of the founders of the major Sunni schools of law.

This book can provide additional explanations for understanding Islamic jurisprudence beyond short classroom notes.

6. The Life of Muhammad (SAW) by M. Hay Lal

Publication year: 1982 | Publisher: Academic Press

The life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is a major area of the JAMB Islamic Studies syllabus.

Candidates are expected to understand his birth, early life, call to Prophethood, activities in Makkah and Madinah, migration, leadership and major historical events during his lifetime.

This recommended biography can support preparation for questions relating to the Prophet’s life and contributions.

Candidates should concentrate on the following:

• His birth and early life.

• The first revelation and the beginning of his Prophethood.

• The early spread of Islam in Makkah.

• The migration from Makkah to Madinah.

• The establishment and administration of the Muslim community in Madinah.

• The battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq.

• The Treaty of Hudaibiyyah.

• The conquest of Makkah.

• The farewell pilgrimage and sermon.

• His personal qualities and lessons from his life.

A good understanding of the sequence of these events will help candidates answer questions about their causes, effects and significance.

7. Islamic Studies for SSS by A. Lemu

Publication year: 1993 | Publisher details: IPB and IET

Islamic Studies for Senior Secondary School is another recommended resource for candidates.

Secondary school textbooks can be particularly useful because they generally present religious concepts in a structured manner suitable for students.

Candidates can use the book to revise foundational knowledge and connect classroom learning with the JAMB syllabus.

It is useful to compare the chapters with the official examination objectives before deciding which sections deserve more attention.

The recommended reading list contains an entry for Book 1 and another entry for the IET publication in Minna. Candidates should confirm the precise volume and edition when purchasing.

8. Al-Burhanu fi Tajwidil Qur’an by S.Q. Muhammad

Publication year: 2010 | Publisher: Shirkatul-Qudus

This recommended title focuses on Tajwid, the rules governing the correct recitation of the Qur’an.

The JAMB syllabus includes an introduction to Tajwid, covering its meaning and importance, as well as the study of selected surahs with correct recitation.

Candidates should understand the basic rules of pronunciation, the proper articulation of Arabic letters and the importance of observing the rules of recitation.

They should also practise the prescribed passages rather than relying entirely on reading translations.

For candidates who find Arabic recitation difficult, studying with a qualified Islamic Studies teacher can provide additional guidance.

9. A Dictionary of Peoples and Places in the Qur’an by M.O. Opeloye

Publication year: 1996 | Publisher: Academic Press

This dictionary is a useful reference for candidates who need clarification about the names of people, places and other references found in the Qur’an.

Understanding the personalities and locations mentioned in Qur’anic passages can improve comprehension of the historical and religious context of selected verses.

Candidates can use it as a supplementary reference when studying Qur’anic passages, particularly where unfamiliar names or places appear.

It should not replace a comprehensive Qur’an translation or commentary, but it can help clarify specific terms.

10. Usool at-Tafseer by A.A.B. Philips

Publication year: 1997 | Publisher: Noordeen

Tafsir refers to the explanation or interpretation of the Qur’an.

The JAMB syllabus expects candidates to understand the historical development of Tafsir, its importance, sources and different types.

Usool at-Tafseer can help candidates develop a better understanding of the principles used in interpreting Qur’anic passages.

Candidates should study the difference between reading a verse and understanding its context, meaning and intended lessons.

They should also understand why reliable interpretation is necessary when explaining Qur’anic teachings.

11. Al-Iziyyah for the English Audience by Y.A. Quadri and Others

Publication year: 1990 | Publisher: Shebiotiuom Publication

Al-Iziyyah for the English Audience is included in the recommended reading list for Islamic Religious Studies.

Candidates can use it as an additional resource when studying Islamic jurisprudence, religious obligations and related Islamic teachings.

It is particularly useful to approach this book with the relevant syllabus topics in mind. Rather than reading without a specific objective, identify the concepts that relate to Islamic law and the principles governing religious practices.

12. Islamic History by A. Rahim

Publication year: 1992 | Publisher: IPB

Islamic history is another major area of the JAMB syllabus. Candidates are expected to understand the development of Islam, the early Muslim community and the historical events that influenced the spread of the religion.

Islamic History by A. Rahim is among the recommended resources for this section.

Candidates should pay particular attention to the early development of Islam, the leadership of the caliphs, the spread of Islam beyond Arabia and the establishment of Muslim communities in different regions.

The book can also support revision of historical developments that influenced Islamic civilisation.

13. Islamic Religious Knowledge for WASC Books 1 and 3 by M.B. Sambo and Others

Publication year: 1984 | Publisher: IPB

The two Islamic Religious Knowledge textbooks are included in JAMB’s recommended reading list.

They can help candidates revise the fundamental principles of Islam and develop a stronger understanding of topics covered in secondary school.

Candidates should use the books alongside their school notes and the examination syllabus. This will help them identify relevant chapters and avoid spending unnecessary time on material outside the UTME requirements.

14. A History of Islam in West Africa by J.S. Trimingham

Publication year: 1993 | Publisher: Oxford University Press

A History of Islam in West Africa is particularly relevant to the historical and geographical aspects of the JAMB Islamic Studies syllabus.

Candidates are expected to understand how Islam spread across West Africa and influenced the political, economic, social and educational development of different communities.

The syllabus identifies several historical areas that candidates should study, including Ghana, Mali, Songhai, Borno, Timbuktu and Kano.

This book can provide additional historical background on the spread of Islam and the development of Islamic civilisation in the region.

Candidates should also study the contributions of Muslim traders, scholars, teachers, preachers and religious movements to the spread of Islam in West Africa.

Important Topics to Study for JAMB Islamic Studies 2027

Knowing the recommended textbooks is only one part of preparing for the examination. Candidates must also understand the topics and learning objectives in the JAMB Islamic Religious Studies syllabus.

The current syllabus groups its subject matter into three broad areas: the Qur’an and Hadith, Tawhid and Fiqh, and Islamic history and civilisation.

The following topics should guide candidates when selecting chapters from their recommended books.

1. The Glorious Qur’an: Revelation, Preservation and Importance

Candidates should understand how the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW), beginning with the first revelation at Cave Hira.

Important areas include:

• The Prophet’s visits to Cave Hira.

• His reaction to the first revelation.

• Different modes of revelation.

• Reasons for the piecemeal revelation of the Qur’an.

• The names and attributes of the Qur’an.

• The recording, compilation and standardisation of the Qur’an.

• Differences between Makkan and Madinan surahs.

• The role of the Companions in preserving the Qur’an.

• The importance of the Qur’an as a source of guidance.

Candidates should also understand the divine authenticity and uniqueness of the Qur’an.

2. Tafsir and Tajwid

Tafsir involves explaining and interpreting the Qur’an, while Tajwid concerns the rules of correct Qur’anic recitation.

Candidates should study the historical development of Tafsir, its sources, importance and different types.

For Tajwid, attention should be given to the correct pronunciation of Arabic letters, recitation rules and the importance of observing them.

3. Selected Surahs and Qur’anic Verses

The syllabus identifies particular surahs and verses that candidates must study in Arabic.

These include:

• Al-Fatihah.

• Al-Adiyat.

• Al-Qari’ah.

• At-Takathur.

• Al-Asr.

• Al-Humazah.

• Al-Ma’un.

• Al-Kawthar.

• Al-Kafirun.

• An-Nasr.

• Al-Masad.

• Al-Ikhlas.

• Al-Falaq.

• An-Nas.

• Al-A’ala.

• Ad-Duha.

• Al-Inshirah.

• At-Tin.

• Al-Alaq.

• Al-Qadr.

• Al-Bayyinah.

• Al-Zalzalah.

• Ayatul-Kursiyy.

• Amanar-Rasul.

• Laqad Ja’akum.

Candidates should practise reciting the selected passages, translating them and explaining their moral and religious lessons.

4. Hadith

Hadith refers to reports concerning the sayings, actions and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The syllabus covers the history of Hadith literature, authentication and the relationship between Hadith and the Qur’an.

Candidates should understand:

• The development of Hadith collection.

• Isnad, the chain of narrators.

• Matn, the actual text or content of a Hadith.

• Sahih, authentic Hadith.

• Hassan, good Hadith.

• Da’if, weak Hadith.

• The six authentic Hadith collectors.

• The biography and work of Imam Malik.

• The Muwatta.

• Selected Hadith from the collection of Imam an-Nawawi.

Candidates should also understand the differences between the Qur’an and Hadith and how both contribute to Islamic teachings.

5. Moral Lessons in the Qur’an and Hadith

This section examines how Islamic teachings guide individual behaviour and relationships within society.

Important areas include honesty, respect for parents, justice, modesty, trustworthiness and the dignity of labour.

Candidates should also study the Islamic position on bribery, corruption, stealing, fraud, alcohol, gambling, drug abuse, arrogance and extravagance.

The syllabus includes relevant Qur’anic verses and Hadith, so candidates should connect each moral teaching with its supporting religious evidence.

6. Tawhid and Articles of Faith

Tawhid refers to the oneness of Allah and is a central concept in Islamic belief.

Candidates should understand the foundations of Islamic faith, including belief in Allah, angels, revealed books, prophets, the Day of Judgement and divine decree.

They should also understand how these beliefs influence the behaviour and responsibilities of Muslims.

7. Ibadat and Islamic Worship

Ibadat concerns acts of worship and religious obligations.

Candidates should understand the major forms of Islamic worship, their conditions and their significance.

These include:

• Salat, the five daily prayers.

• Zakat, obligatory almsgiving.

• Sawm, fasting during Ramadan.

• Hajj, pilgrimage to Makkah.

Candidates should pay attention to the conditions, importance and procedures associated with these acts of worship.

8. Islamic Family Life

The syllabus also covers the Islamic family system and responsibilities within the family.

Candidates should study marriage, the rights and duties of spouses, family relationships and the responsibilities of parents and children.

They should understand how Islamic teachings promote fairness, responsibility and respect within the family.

9. Sources of Islamic Law

Candidates should understand the four major sources of Islamic law: the Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma and Qiyas.

They should also study the founders of the four Sunni schools of jurisprudence and their contributions to Islamic legal scholarship.

10. Islamic Economic and Political Systems

The economic section covers Islamic teachings on financial transactions and social welfare.

Candidates should understand Riba (interest or usury), unfair trading, hoarding and Islamic sources of revenue, including Zakat, Jizyah, Kharaj and Ghanimah.

The political section examines Allah’s sovereignty, consultation (Shurah), justice (Adalah), accountability (Mas’uliyah) and the rights of non-Muslims in an Islamic state.

11. Islamic History and Civilisation

The historical section covers pre-Islamic Arabia, the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the Rightly Guided Caliphs and the spread of Islam in Africa.

Candidates should also understand the influence of Islam on West African kingdoms and the development of Islamic education.

Important personalities include Ahmad Baba of Timbuktu, Sheikh al-Maghili, Sheikh Usman Dan Fodio, Sultan Muhammad Bello and Ibn Battuta.

The syllabus also covers the contributions of scholars such as Ibn Sina, Al-Ghazali, Ibn Rushd, ar-Razi and Ibn Khaldun.

How to Choose the Best Textbooks for JAMB Islamic Studies 2027

Candidates should consider the coverage, accuracy and relevance of a textbook before purchasing it.

The fact that a book appears on JAMB’s recommended reading list does not mean every chapter is equally important for the examination.

Use the following guidelines when choosing your study materials.

1. Check the JAMB syllabus first.

Obtain the current Islamic Religious Studies syllabus and identify the topics you need to cover. This will help you select textbooks that address the examination objectives.

2. Choose a comprehensive Islamic Studies textbook.

Start with a general textbook that explains fundamental Islamic teachings, beliefs, worship, history and moral principles.

3. Add specialised textbooks.

Use books such as Usool at-Tafseer for Qur’anic interpretation, Al-Burhanu fi Tajwidil Qur’an for recitation and Shariah: The Islamic Law for jurisprudence.

4. Check the publication and edition.

Some recommended titles are older publications. Check the author’s name, title, volume and publisher to avoid purchasing an unrelated book with a similar name.

5. Use past questions alongside textbooks.

Past questions help candidates understand how JAMB tests the subject. They also reveal areas where additional reading and revision may be necessary.

How to Prepare for JAMB Islamic Studies Using the Recommended Textbooks

A good preparation plan should combine textbook reading, syllabus revision, memorisation, practice questions and regular assessment.

The following steps can help candidates organise their preparation.

1. Download the current Islamic Studies syllabus: Identify all the topics and objectives before beginning serious revision.

2. Arrange your textbooks according to topics: Keep general Islamic Studies books together and separate specialised resources for Qur’an, Hadith, Tajwid, Islamic law and history.

3. Create a reading timetable: Allocate specific days to different syllabus areas. Avoid concentrating only on historical topics while ignoring Qur’anic studies and Islamic jurisprudence.

4. Practise selected Qur’anic passages: Read the prescribed surahs regularly, study their translations and understand the lessons they teach.

5. Make short revision notes: Record important names, dates, historical events, definitions and religious concepts.

6. Solve JAMB past questions: Attempt questions after completing each major topic. Review incorrect answers and return to the relevant textbook sections.

7. Take timed CBT practice tests: Practise answering questions within examination conditions to improve your speed and accuracy.

8. Revise difficult topics regularly: Give additional attention to areas where you consistently make mistakes.

Common Mistakes Candidates Should Avoid

Some candidates spend considerable time reading but still struggle to perform well because their preparation is not properly organised.

Avoid these mistakes:

• Reading textbooks without checking the JAMB syllabus.

• Purchasing all 19 recommended titles without considering their relevance.

• Memorising Qur’anic verses without understanding their meanings and lessons.

• Ignoring Hadith authentication and classification.

• Confusing the four major sources of Islamic law.

• Studying Islamic history without understanding the sequence of events.

• Depending entirely on past questions without consulting textbooks.

• Using unverified online notes as substitutes for the prescribed syllabus.

• Waiting until a few weeks before the examination to begin revision.

A balanced study routine is more useful than rushing through several books without understanding their contents.

Frequently Asked Questions About JAMB Islamic Studies Textbooks 2027

1. How many textbooks does JAMB recommend for Islamic Studies 2027?

The current JAMB Islamic Religious Studies reading list contains 19 recommended textbook entries. Candidates should check the latest IBASS syllabus for any changes before purchasing their study materials.

2. Do I need to buy all the recommended Islamic Studies textbooks?

No. Candidates do not need to purchase all 19 titles. They can begin with a comprehensive Islamic Studies textbook and add specialised books that cover areas such as Qur’anic interpretation, Tajwid, Islamic law and history.

3. Which textbook is best for JAMB Islamic Studies?

There is no single textbook that covers every area of the syllabus equally. Candidates can use the Studies in Islam series by M.O.A. Abdul and Islamic Studies for SSS by A. Lemu for general preparation, alongside specialised recommended titles.

4. Does JAMB ask questions directly from recommended textbooks?

The recommended textbooks provide background information and explanations for the syllabus. Candidates should not assume that JAMB will reproduce questions word for word from a particular book. Preparation should focus on understanding the syllabus objectives.

5. Is the Qur’an part of the JAMB Islamic Studies examination?

Yes. The syllabus includes the revelation, preservation and importance of the Qur’an, Tafsir, Tajwid and selected surahs and verses. Candidates are expected to understand their meanings and teachings and practise the prescribed Arabic passages.

6. Should I study Hadith for JAMB Islamic Studies 2027?

Yes. Hadith is an important part of the syllabus. Candidates should study its history, authentication, classification, relationship with the Qur’an, major collectors and selected Hadith from Imam an-Nawawi’s collection.

7. Are Islamic Studies and Islamic Religious Studies the same JAMB subject?

JAMB’s subject listing and syllabus use the name Islamic Religious Studies. Many candidates and educational publications also refer to the subject as Islamic Studies. When selecting the subject during UTME registration, candidates should use the official JAMB subject name.

8. Where can I confirm the JAMB Islamic Studies recommended textbooks?

Candidates can consult the Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) accessible through the official JAMB website. The current syllabus includes the recommended reading list and the examination objectives.

Final Advice for JAMB Islamic Studies Candidates

The recommended JAMB Islamic Studies textbooks provide a useful foundation for preparing for the 2027 UTME. The 19 titles cover different areas of Islamic knowledge, including the Qur’an, Hadith, Tajwid, Islamic jurisprudence, moral teachings, the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Islamic history in West Africa.

Candidates should begin with the current JAMB syllabus, select textbooks that cover the examination topics and use specialised resources to understand difficult areas. Regular revision, Qur’anic recitation practice and past-question exercises should form part of their preparation.

Before buying any book, confirm its title and edition against the recommended reading list. Also check the latest IBASS syllabus for any changes to the 2027 examination requirements.