Slander and Gossip

Slander is speaking falsely or maliciously about another person, and gossip is the spreading of private information to harm someone's reputation. Scripture condemns both as destructive to relationships and community.

Proverbs 11:13 warns, "A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter." Proverbs 16:28 adds, "A perverse man sows strife, and a whisperer separates the best of friends." James 4:11 instructs, "Do not speak evil of one another, brethren." Proverbs 18:8 observes, "The words of a talebearer are like tasty trifles, and they go down into the inmost body." Ephesians 4:29 commands, "Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers."

Gossip and slander damage reputations, destroy trust, and divide communities — often irreparably. Believers are called to use their words to build others up rather than tear them down. A faithful spirit conceals a matter rather than spreading it, choosing to protect rather than expose.