LaShon HaRa = The Evil Tongue
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“LaShon HaRa kills three people:
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- the speaker,
- the listener, and
- the person spoken about.”
LaShon HaRa (also spelled Lashon Hara) is a Hebrew term that refers to the prohibition against spreading harmful or derogatory information about others, whether true or false.
LaShon HaRa (לשון הרע) is a Hebrew term that means “the evil tongue” or “gossip.” (slander, backbiting, whispering, implacable, divisive).
In Jewish tradition, LaShon HaRa is considered a serious sin, as it can cause harm to individuals, damage relationships, and destroy communities.
Torah teachings:
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Leviticus 19:16 – “You shall not go about as a talebearer among your people.”
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Exodus 23:1 – “Do not spread false reports.”
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Deuteronomy 19:16-19 – Punishment for false witnesses.
Talmudic teachings:
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Talmud, Arachin 15b – “One who speaks LaShon HaRa is considered as if he denied the existence of God.”
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Talmud, Yoma 4b – “The tongue is a small organ, but it can kill.”
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Talmud, Bava Batra 164b –
“LaShon HaRa kills three people:
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- the speaker,
- the listener, and
- the person spoken about.”
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Prohibitions:
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Speaking negatively about others, even if true.
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Spreading rumors or unsubstantiated information.
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Sharing confidential information.
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Engaging in gossip or slander.
Consequences:
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Damages relationships and reputations.
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Causes emotional pain and distress.
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Leads to conflict and strife.
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Erodes trust and unity.
Repentance and prevention:
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Guard your tongue and thoughts.
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Speak positively and kindly.
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Refrain from gossip and rumors.
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Seek forgiveness from those harmed.
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Cultivate empathy and understanding.
Related concepts:
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Motzi Shem Ra (spreading false information).
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Rechilut (talebearing).
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Avak Lashon HaRa (hinting at negative information).
Sources:
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Chofetz Chaim (Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan).
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Sefer Chofetz Chaim (The Book of the Wise Tongue).
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Jewish Ethics and Law.
Source: Meta.ai