Formulation of the Claim
The Qur’an is understood as the word of God, not merely as a historical document.
Explanation
The text emphasizes that the Qur’an is not reduced to being historical material. At the same time, it calls for a comparative and methodologically evenhanded reading of the sacred books.
Its Place in the Book’s Argument
This idea falls within Arkoun’s tendency to keep the faith dimension of the text present, without abandoning the critical reading that places religious texts within a horizon of comparison and analysis.
What the Atom Does Not Say
It does not say that the Qur’an is only a historical document, nor does it deny its status as revelation. Nor does it extend the judgment into a comprehensive position on all religious texts outside this context.
Brief Evidence
Reading the Qur’an as the word of God as well, not merely as a historical document
He calls for reading the Qur’an as the word of God as well, not merely as a historical document