When Neutrality Is Out of the Question

Not everybody “has the right to remain silent” or be publicly neutral about certain issues. Out of the sheer nature of their rank in the ummah, some people are obliged to publicly speak out and take stances on some issues.

Silence by those in religious authority could be interpreted in several ways by the masses. It could be interpreted as a particular ordeal not being a big deal worthy of speaking out about (while in reality, it is), and thus, those masses would similarly view the matter as not being a big deal in emulation of those religious authorities.

It could also be interpreted as a particular viewpoint being acceptable or valid to the one who is silent about it (when in fact it is not), and thus, the masses similarly strive to feel the same way in imitation of them.

It could be interpreted in different ways. This is especially the case when silence is chosen by those who do not outwardly have any legitimate excuses for doing so (e.g., real fear of harm, etc.)

So as you can see, silence has the realistic potential of deceiving the masses about religious matters. Some who choose to be silent sometimes falsely assume that the masses are mind-readers and could “figure out” the inner workings of the decision-making in their minds. However, people are not mind readers.

Religious authorities are meant to guide and provide direction and must understand that they will be accountable for what they say and choose not to say.