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Questions and Answers
What are the three main types of evil speech? Give the Hebrew names and what they mean.
What are the three main types of evil speech? Give the Hebrew names and what they mean.
The three main types of evil speech are Lashon Hara (true derogatory speech), Motzei Shem Ra (untrue derogatory speech), and Rechilut (peddling gossip).
What does the Torah say about gossiping?
What does the Torah say about gossiping?
According to the Torah, the prohibition regarding gossiping among one's people is stated as 'You shall not go around gossiping among your people. You shall not stand by [the shedding of] your fellow's blood. I am the Lord.'
What are the three sins for which retribution is exacted from a person in this world and, [for which] he is [nonetheless,] denied a portion in the world to come? What sin is compared to them?
What are the three sins for which retribution is exacted from a person in this world and, [for which] he is [nonetheless,] denied a portion in the world to come? What sin is compared to them?
The three sins for which retribution is exacted from a person in this world and, [for which] he is [nonetheless,] denied a portion in the world to come are idol worship, forbidden sexual relations, and murder. Lashon Hara is equivalent to all of them.
What is the meaning of Lashon Hara?
What is the meaning of Lashon Hara?
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According to Rambam, who does Lashon Hara harm?
According to Rambam, who does Lashon Hara harm?
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Under what conditions is it permissible to speak negatively about a person?
Under what conditions is it permissible to speak negatively about a person?
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When is it acceptable for a teacher to ask students to report wrongdoings?
When is it acceptable for a teacher to ask students to report wrongdoings?
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Study Notes
Types of Evil Speech
- Lashon Hara: Gossip or slanderous speech that harms another's reputation.
- Rechilut: Tale-bearing or reporting on others’ negative actions to instigate conflict.
- Motzi Shem Ra: False accusation, spreading lies about someone that tarnishes their image.
Gossiping in the Torah
- Gossiping is prohibited as it can lead to damaging reputations and inciting hatred among people.
- The Torah emphasizes the importance of community harmony and warns against divisive speech.
Three Major Sins with Retribution
- The three sins are: idol worship, adultery, and murder. Retribution for these is exacted in this world.
- Those committing these sins are denied a portion in the world to come.
- Lashon Hara is compared to these sins due to its severe moral implications and consequences on social relations.
Meaning of Lashon Hara
- Translated literally as "evil tongue," it signifies the act of speaking negatively about another person without just cause.
Impact of Lashon Hara According to Rambam
- Lashon Hara harms not only the subject of the gossip but also the speaker and the listener, creating a toxic environment.
Conditions for Negative Speech
- It is permissible to speak negatively about a person if it is for genuine constructive purposes, such as warning someone about potential harm.
- Context matters; if the information is necessary for protection or preventing harm, it may be allowed.
Acceptable Reporting by Teachers
- Teachers may request students to report wrongdoings when the action threatens the safety or well-being of individuals or the community.
- Reporting must be aimed at promoting safety and ethical behavior rather than gossip or malice.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Lashon Hara, Motzei Shem Ra, and Rechilut with this insightful quiz. Learn about the different types of evil speech and the Torah's teachings on gossiping. How well do you understand the importance of guarding your words? Find out now!
