Negative Consequences of Hiding the Truth in Society
Mohsen Faqihi, in his session on the Quran interpretation, discussed some points about verse 176 of Surah Baqarah, which are summarized below:
"That is because Allah has sent down the Book with the truth; those who disagree about it are in extreme dissension," reads the translation of the verse.
God has imposed severe punishments for the sin of hiding the truth. These punishments make us wonder why hiding the truth is such a grave sin. The reason for hiding can be both material and sometimes immaterial, such as gaining money, status, fame, etc.
Another question that arises is how to recognize the truth. God has stated in the Holy Quran that this book is one of the criteria and we are obliged to follow what is in accordance with the Quran's view. Therefore, the problem lies in distancing ourselves from the Quran.
Some people deny the whole truth or a part of it because they do not regard the Quran as a standard. One of the tricks of some people, especially the hypocrites, is to mix truth with falsehood, because when these two are mixed together, not everyone can discern them.
Therefore, someone who seeks the truth is one who accepts all of the Quran, and accepting some and rejecting others causes the truth to be lost. Distance from the truth has different degrees; sometimes someone is completely opposed to the truth and sometimes he is indifferent to some of it in practice.
All the disputes that occur in society, whether intentional or unintentional, stem from hiding the truth; if all those who recognize the truth did their duty to explain it to others, we would not witness many social abnormalities.
Deceivers also exploit people's differences for their own benefit; since the beginning of Islam, there have been great concealments, whose unfortunate effects will continue until the appearance of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his advent).
Telling the truth is obligatory for everyone, and hiding the truth is a great sin that cannot be forgiven, because it can sometimes destroy a society. Of course, if someone can make up for it, maybe God will accept his repentance, but it is often difficult and even impossible to compensate.
Part of today's problems is caused by this concealment of facts, because some people know about issues that could reduce troubles, but they keep silent because of their worldly and materialistic ambitions and greed.
