Every generation has obligations that define its role in history. Some are obvious, such as prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage. Others are less visible but equally important. One such duty, emphasized by many contemporary Islamic scholars, is Jihād al-Tabyīn—the struggle to clarify the truth and remove misconceptions.
It is often described as “The Neglected Obligation.”
What is Jihad al-Tabyeen?
Jihad al-Tabyeen is an Islamic doctrine popularized by former Supreme Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei. It is an intellectual and cultural “jihad” requiring scholars, elites, and citizens to actively counter enemy propaganda, correct misinformation, and clearly explain the values of Islam and the revolution using wisdom and logic.
Why is Jihād al-Tabyīn Important Today?
In today’s world, information travels faster than ever before. News spreads within seconds. Social media shapes opinions before facts are verified. False narratives, misinformation, and propaganda can influence millions of people overnight.
In such an environment, remaining silent is no longer a neutral choice. If truth is not explained, falsehood often fills the silence.
The Quranic Foundation
The Holy Quran repeatedly commands believers to stand for truth and not conceal it:
“Do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know it.”
(Quran 2:42)
Jihād al-Tabyīn is fought with knowledge, wisdom, evidence, good character, and sincere dialogue. It is the effort to explain Islam correctly, defend the oppressed through truthful speech, answer doubts, and present reality with honesty and justice.
The Greatest Historical Example
This responsibility did not begin in modern times.
The greatest example is the aftermath of Karbala.
After the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.), the enemies believed that the message of Ashura had ended. But Lady Zainab (S.A.) and Imam Zain al-Abidin (A.S.) carried the mission of clarification. Through their speeches in Kufa and Damascus, they exposed oppression and preserved the true story of Karbala for future generations.
Without their efforts, the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (A.S.) could have been misunderstood or forgotten.
Their struggle was the first great example of Jihād al-Tabyīn.
The Modern Battlefield
Today, the battlefield has changed. Instead of swords and spears, the struggle often takes place through:
- Television
- Newspapers
- Websites
- Social media
Ideas compete for attention, and narratives shape how people understand the world.
The Responsibility of Every Believer
This places a responsibility upon every believer.
- Scholars must teach.
- Writers must write.
- Teachers must educate.
- Parents must guide.
- Students must seek knowledge.
- Content creators must use their platforms responsibly.
Every person has a role in ensuring that truth is presented with wisdom and integrity.
What Jihād al-Tabyīn is Not
Jihād al-Tabyīn is not about creating division or spreading hatred.
It is about:
- Explaining truth with justice.
- Correcting misinformation with evidence.
- Inviting people toward understanding through respectful dialogue.
Arbaeen as a Living Example
The Arbaeen pilgrimage itself is a powerful form of clarification. Every year, millions of people from different nations witness the values of Imam Hussain (A.S.)—service, generosity, sacrifice, and unity.
Through their actions, pilgrims communicate a message more powerful than words.
The Neglected Obligation
The neglected obligation is therefore not reserved for scholars alone. It belongs to every person who values truth.
In every age, falsehood seeks to spread confusion.
In every age, Allah raises people who clarify the truth.
The question is not whether Jihād al-Tabyīn is needed.
The question is whether we will fulfill this obligation.
Because truth survives only when there are people willing to explain it, defend it, and live by it.