The idea
This claim states that Qur’anic exegesis experienced a decline after the thirteenth century. The point is not to deny every later effort, but to indicate a waning of interpretive vitality and a narrowing of the critical horizon. The idea thus assumes that exegesis in earlier periods was more present and effective, then entered a weaker phase in terms of renewal and the capacity to raise questions.
Concise formulation
Qur’anic exegesis: declined after the thirteenth century
Its place in the book’s argument
This judgment lies at the heart of the book’s argument, which views Islamic history as a succession of rise and decline in various fields of religious knowledge. The reference to the thirteenth century functions as a dividing marker within the narrative and helps explain the need to reopen the question of reading. It is therefore a key element in constructing the historical diagnosis.
Why it matters
The importance of the claim stems from the way it clarifies why Arkoun insists on renewing the study of the Qur’an and its exegetical history. If a decline did occur, then what is required is not the repetition of inherited formulas, but an understanding of the causes of that decline and an attempt to move beyond it. In this way, the claim becomes an entry point into his entire critical project, not merely a historical observation.
Brief evidence
This claim states that Qur’anic exegesis experienced a decline after the thirteenth century. The point is not to deny every later effort, but to indicate a weakening of interpretive vitality and a narrowing of the critical horizon. The idea thus assumes that exegesis in earlier periods was more present and effective, then entered a weaker phase in terms of renewal and the posing of questions.
Reading questions
- What is meant by the decline of exegesis: a weakening of quality or a narrowing of horizons?
- How does this diagnosis affect the book’s call for renewed reading?
Degree of documentation
High: the claim appears in a clear place in the book’s material.