This axis gathers 1 instance of the use of this verse in Muhammad Shahrur’s books, linking it to the concepts and arguments that appear around it.

Text of the verse as cited

Say, “If there were with Him gods, as they say…”

Brief reading

The verse is used to affirm that freedom is exercised only within a reference authority that is acknowledged, and that multiple gods are impossible.

Axes

  • Faith-based
  • Political and social
  • Reference authority: 2

Its place in the conceptual network

It connects monotheism with the idea of reference authority in organizing human action.

The verse’s role in the argument

  • Support: 1

Instances of use

  • The Book and the Qur’an, p. 369: He employs it to explain that the reference authority in the exercise of freedom can only be within a party endowed with recognized authority, and that multiple gods are impossible.
    • Concept: Reference authority
    • Function of the verse here: Support
    • Textual witness: «And he said {Say, “If there were with Him gods, as they say…”} (al-Isra 42)»

This page is presented within the general method of building the atlas.