This axis gathers 2 instances of Muhammad Shahrur’s use of this verse in his books, linking them to the concepts and arguments that appear around it.

The verse as cited

His command, when He wills a thing, is only to say to it, “Be,” and it is.

Brief reading

For Shahrur, the verse supports the idea that some gifts fall within the domain of contingent command, and it is also used as an example of will becoming reality.

Axes

  • Faith-based
  • Methodological
  • Circumstantial command: 2
  • Bringing-into-being: 2

Its place in the conceptual network

It connects circumstantial command and bringing-into-being within a conception that distinguishes between determination and occurrence.

The verse’s role in the argument

  • Support: 1
  • Foundation: 1

Instances of use

  • The Book and the Qur’an, p. 64: He uses it together with Maryam 35 to clarify that the granting of sons and daughters, rain, and provision falls within the domain of possible, mutable command.
    • Concept: circumstantial command
    • Function of the verse here: support
    • Textual citation: «{His command, when He wills a thing, is only to say to it, “Be,” and it is} (Ya-Sin 82)»
  • Drying Up the Sources of Terrorism, p. 286: He presents it as an example of God’s will becoming tangible reality through the word of creation.
    • Concept: bringing-into-being
    • Function of the verse here: foundation
    • Textual citation: «as in His, Exalted be He, saying: {His command … “Be,” and it is} (Ya-Sin 82),»

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