Arth Is Increase and Gain
Editorial verification status: This atom has been extracted from an explanatory audiovisual source, and has now been linked to the closest books within Shahrur’s project at the book level. For precise academic citation, consult the original book and the original episode together.
Formulation of the Claim
Shahrur interprets “arth” as the act of increase, production, and gain, not merely literal tilling or sowing.
Explanation
He explains arth through the agricultural example: someone who plants a quantity of wheat expects an increase in the yield. From this, he makes arth a symbol for any activity that increases returns or achieves benefit. In this way, he expands the meaning from agriculture to all forms of human investment. Thus, “arth” becomes, in his view, a general concept for productive action.
Its Place in the Episode’s Argument
This atom serves his reading of the verse “Your women are a tilth for you” as a relationship of production and benefit, not of moral blame.
It also connects the text to the principle of work and addition.
Scope of the Claim
It does not restrict arth to the economic sense alone, nor does it negate its original agricultural meaning.
Brief Witness
“Arth is increase; it is gain”
Related Links
- Shahrur - Righteous Deeds
- Shahrur - The Qur’an
- Shahrur - The Decisive/Revelatory Text