an online book by David Gurteen
Lashon hara (or loshon horo, or loshon hora) (Hebrew: לשון הרע; "evil tongue") is the halakhic term for speech about a person or persons that is negative or harmful to them, even if it is true. It is speech that damages the person(s) who is talked about either emotionally or financially, or lowers them in the estimation of others.
Credit: Wikipedia - lashon haraOne man spread a rumor about another. He later felt regret and went to the rabbi to ask how to make amends. “Go to the store and buy a bag of seeds,” said the rabbi, “then go to a big open field and scatter the seeds into the wind. Do so and report back to Continue reading How to Make Amends for Derogatory Speech Unknown
Avoid speaking badly of others, even when the information is true. Truth does not justify harm. Words can damage trust, dignity, and relationships. Before speaking, ask whether it is necessary, fair, and constructive. Choosing restraint over criticism is not weakness—it is a practice of responsibility, respect, and thoughtful communication. Don't Speak Badly of Others, Even When It Is … Continue reading Don’t Speak Badly of Others, Even When It Is True Change Insight
Lashon Hara, or harmful speech, is a longstanding Jewish prohibition with deep ethical roots. While many cultures condemn lies, this law goes further—truthful but damaging words are also forbidden. The challenge today is how to honour that principle while still addressing wrongdoing, injustice, and difficult truths responsibly. Continue reading Lashon Hara Jewish religious term for derogatory speech
An interesting conundrum arises when considering the Jewish religious law forbidding Lashon Hara (speaking derogatorily about someone) and building social trust through gossip. Why would Jewish religious law consider gossip bad while anthropologists consider it good? Continue reading Gossip and Lashon Hara Conversation about other people
Show respect: We often show disrespect for people with whom we disagree. This is damaging to the relationship and society. However, we do not need to respect someone or their ideas to show them respect. Continue reading Show Respect Failing to respect one another negatively impacts the future for all of us
