Kashf al-Asrar (Unveiling of Secrets) is a significant theological and political work written by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini
in 1943. Originally written in Persian, it was later translated into
by Maulana Syed Zafar Hassan Naqvi to reach a wider audience in South Asia. Book Overview
The book was written as a direct point-by-point refutation of a pamphlet titled Asrar-e Hezar Sale
(Secrets of a Thousand Years) by Ali Akbar Hakimzadeh, which criticized traditional Shia practices and clerical authority. It is widely recognized as the first work where Khomeini explicitly outlined his political views, including his early thoughts on Islamic government. Core Content & Themes
The work is structured to address specific criticisms across six primary chapters: Tawhid (Oneness of God):
Refutes criticisms of Shia Islam and addresses Baháʼí perspectives. Imamah (Leadership): kashf ul asrar khomeini urdu pdf 20
Provides evidence for the concept of Imamate using Quranic verses and Hadiths, such as the Hadith of Position The Clergy and Government:
Defends the role of the Ulama (scholars) and argues that the only legitimate government is the "Government of God". Law and Hadith:
Addresses jurisprudence and the validity of recorded traditions. Defense of Shia Practices: Justifies practices like mourning during Muharram, (pilgrimage), and seeking the intercession of the Imams. Critique of Secularism:
Denounces the secular reforms of the Pahlavi dynasty, such as the banning of the hijab and Westernized bureaucracy. Summary of Urdu Edition Specifications Translator: Maulana Syed Zafar Hassan Naqvi.
Typically available in single-volume PDF versions ranging from 334 to 430 pages depending on the edition and commentary included. Availability: Digital versions are hosted on platforms like Archive.org Controversies
The book is highly controversial due to its strong language and critical stance toward certain historical figures. Khomeini critiques the first three Caliphs of Islam, questioning their motivations and leadership. These sections are often cited in sectarian debates and have led to both strong defense and criticism of the work within the Muslim community. Kashf al-Asrar (Unveiling of Secrets) is a significant
For those unable to find the PDF immediately, here is a summary of Fasl 20 from the Urdu translation:
| Topic (Urdu) | Persian Original | English Rendering | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | حکومت کی ضرورت (Hukumat ki Zaroorat) | ضرورت حکومت | The necessity of a state to enforce justice. | | فقہ کی ولایت (Fiqh ki Wilayat) | ولایت فقہ | The jurist has authority over orphans, absentees, and also the nation. | | احکام کا نفاذ (Ahkam ka Nifaz) | اجرای احکام | If a jurist does not enforce hudud (penal laws), sin spreads. | | شاہ کے خلاف جہاد (Shah ke Khilaf Jihad) | جهاد با شاه | Passive obedience to a tyrant is haram (forbidden). |
Urdu excerpt (simulated): "اگر کوئی فقیہ قیام کرے اور حکومت قائم کرے تو اس کی اطاعت واجب ہے، خواہ وہ مشہور ہو یا غیر مشہور"
Translation: "If a jurist rises and establishes a government, obeying him is obligatory, whether he is famous or unknown."
This was radical in 1943. Today, it is the constitution of Iran.
When searching for kashf ul asrar khomeini urdu pdf 20, beware of corrupted files or fake translations. Look for these markers:
Online Libraries and Archives: Websites like the Internet Archive (archive.org), Google Books, and online libraries may have the Urdu version of "Kashf ul Asrar" available for download or reading. This was radical in 1943
Islamic Websites and Forums: Many Islamic websites, forums, and digital libraries host and share religious texts. You might find a direct link to download the PDF or a request section where you can ask for the specific book.
Book Sharing Platforms: Platforms like Kitab.pk or Urdu Bazaar might have the book available for free download or at a cost.
If the PDF merges Kashf ul Asrar with Wilayat al-Faqih, page 20 often contains the Excommunication of the Tyrant. Khomeini declares that a secular ruler who enforces non-Islamic laws is not just unjust, but akin to a disbeliever (Kafir).
If you are reading this for research or religious study, be aware that Kashf ul Asrar is considered a "revolutionary" text. Unlike Khomeini's later works which are highly philosophical (like Misbah al-Hidayah), this book is written in a passionate, accessible style intended to awaken the general Muslim public to their political and spiritual duties.
Tip for searching: Try searching specifically for the translator's name if you are having trouble finding the Urdu PDF.
"Agar hum Quran ko samajhna chahte hain, toh humein siyasat samajhni hogi. Rasool Allah (SAWW) ne hukumat bhi qaim ki thi. Masharti adalat bhi qaim ki thi. Fauj bhi qaim ki thi. Kya hum yeh keh sakte hain ke Rasool ka kaam sirf waez o naseehat tha? Hargiz nahi. Aur yehi raaz hai jo mein is kitaab mein khol raha hoon."
(Translation: If we want to understand the Quran, we must understand politics. The Prophet (PBUH) established a government, social courts, and an army. Can we say the Prophet's job was only to preach? Never. And this is the secret I am revealing in this book.)