Lashon Hara, The Evil Tongue.

[Ellen Forradalom]

I've been learning that Judaism frowns sharply on loose talk. Smack-talk is considered dangerous because, unlike with physical or financial harm, the damage it causes cannot be undone or compensated for. (See Jewfaq on the subject.)

I'm thinking about Lashon Hara a lot these days because of the staggering amount of trash being said about Michael Schiavo. Because I don't know him, nor am I privy to reliable facts about him, I find the smack spoken of him to be distressing. I feel the same way about the parents, too.

[Behind the Aegis]

1. Very interesting

This was new to me. I do like the meaning behind it. You are just a font of information! I love to read your posts!!!

[Ellen Forradalom]

3. It's only because I'm in class right now

so I'm learning lotsa fun stuff.

[sabra]

2. Rechilut (assist to Lashon Hara)

Rechilut is sharing information about a subject which will incite or increase the listener's ill feelings against that subject. Often the information is derogatory, in which case it is Lashon Hara as well as Rechilut.

example:

Reuven tells Shimon that Levi is obnoxious (which is Lashon Hara). Then Shimon tells Levi what Reuven said about him (which could make Levi angry at Reuven, and is Rechilut).

[Ellen Forradalom]

4. Thanks for posting

That's very interesting. What's the literal meaning of Rechilut?

[usrbs]

5. Gossip. n/t