Facilitators of Taghut in the Qur'anic Thought of Ayatollah al-Uzma Khamenei (May His Shadow Extend)

This study explores the role of the facilitators of Taghut (tyrannical power) in the Qur'anic thought of Grand Ayatollah Khamenei (may his shadow be prolonged). According to his perspective, the struggle against Taghut is a fundamental pillar of monotheism and a prerequisite for the establishment of justice in society. Within this framework, Taghut cannot consolidate its dominance without the support of certain groups such as the Malaʼ (aristocrats and political elites), the Mutrafeen (those immersed in luxury and hedonism), and the Ahbar and Ruhban (deviant and innovation-prone religious scholars). These groups pave the way for societal deviation by means such as distorting the truth, promoting corruption, legitimizing oppression, and manipulating public opinion.
Adopting an interpretive-analytical approach, this article examines the position and function of these groups within the power structure of Taghut. The findings indicate that intermediary groups—including mercenary thugs, deceived masses, passive elites, and dependent media—also play a central role in sustaining oppression and suppressing justice-seeking movements. This analysis reveals that, in the view of Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, recognizing the synergistic network of Taghut-affiliated actors is essential for effectively confronting injustice and achieving social justice in the contemporary era.