Tabyeen: The Neglected Obligation

by Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei

Overview

Tabyeen: The Neglected Obligation by Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei is a compelling work that underscores the essential Islamic duty of Tabyeen —the responsibility to clarify and convey the truth, particularly in the face of distortion and misinformation. The book is a call to action for Muslims, especially scholars, intellectuals, and those engaged in the propagation of Islamic teachings, to actively resist falsehood and ensure the accurate representation of Islam. Drawing upon Quranic verses, hadith, and historical examples, Ayatollah Khamenei presents a strong case for why Tabyeen is not just a scholarly pursuit but a moral and religious duty with profound implications for society.

Content and Themes

The book is structured around the idea that Tabyeen is an obligation that has often been neglected, leading to widespread misunderstandings about Islam, both internally among Muslims and externally in the broader world. Ayatollah Khamenei highlights how misinformation and ideological distortions have historically contributed to deviations within the Muslim Ummah, using examples from Islamic history, particularly the events surrounding the early caliphate and the struggles of the Ahlulbayt (a).

A key theme of the book is the responsibility of scholars and those in positions of influence to clarify the truth, even in the face of adversity. Ayatollah Khamenei warns against complacency and the fear of societal or political backlash, arguing that silence in the face of falsehood is a betrayal of Islamic principles. He draws attention to the Quranic command to enjoin good and forbid evil (amr bil ma’ruf wa nahi anil munkar), linking it to the duty of Tabyeen.

Another important aspect of the book is its relevance to contemporary issues. Ayatollah Khamenei discusses how media, propaganda, and Western cultural hegemony have contributed to misconceptions about Islam, making Tabyeen more urgent than ever. He calls upon Muslim thinkers and leaders to use modern platforms, including digital media, to counter false narratives and educate the masses.

Strengths and Impact

One of the strongest aspects of Tabyeen: The Neglected Obligation is its clarity and directness. Ayatollah Khamenei writes with conviction, making the reader feel the urgency of the subject. His arguments are well-supported by Quranic evidence and historical analysis, making the book not just a theoretical discourse but a practical guide to action.

The book is particularly relevant for Islamic activists, scholars, and students who are engaged in the intellectual and cultural defence of Islam. It serves as both an inspiration and a warning—reminding the reader that neglecting Tabyeen allows falsehood to spread unchecked.

Conclusion

Tabyeen: The Neglected Obligation is a powerful and timely work that calls upon Muslims to reclaim their responsibility of clarifying and defending the truth. Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei masterfully ties together historical, theological, and contemporary perspectives to highlight why Tabyeen is a duty that must not be ignored. In a world rife with distortions about Islam, this book is a crucial read for those who seek to uphold and propagate the truth.