What is considered slander in the Bible?

In its simplest form, slander is the act of making false statements about someone with the intent to damage their reputation. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word “rakil” is often translated as “slanderer” or “talebearer.” A rakil is someone who spreads rumors, gossip, or false accusations. In the New Testament, the Greek word “diabolos”—from which we get the word “devil”—is often rendered as “slanderer” or “accuser.” This powerful association underscores the seriousness with which the Bible treats slanderous speech.

Old Testament Teachings on Slander

The Old Testament contains clear prohibitions against slander. Leviticus 19:16 says, “You shall not go about as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the LORD.” This verse links slander with endangering another’s life, highlighting the significant harm that can come from false speech. Proverbs 10:18 also states, “Whoever utters slander is a fool.” Slander is consistently presented as both a moral failing and a destructive force within a community.

Furthermore, the Psalms repeatedly refer to the damage done by slanderers. Psalm 101:5 declares, “Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly I will destroy; whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart I will not endure.” The Psalmist portrays slander as an offense that God takes seriously, warranting divine judgment.

Slander in the New Testament

The New Testament continues the Old Testament’s condemnation of slander, expanding on its spiritual consequences. In Ephesians 4:31, Paul exhorts believers, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” Slander is listed among other destructive attitudes and behaviors that must be abandoned by followers of Christ.

In 1 Timothy 3:11, Paul instructs that women who serve in the church must not be slanderers, and in Titus 2:3, older women are told to avoid slander as well. This consistent admonition reflects the importance of guarding one’s speech in maintaining the integrity and unity of the Christian community.

The Seriousness of Slander: Spiritual and Social Implications

The Bible regards slander not just as a minor offense but as a grave sin with both spiritual and social consequences. Slander can destroy relationships, foster mistrust, and sow division within families, communities, and churches. James 3:5-6 describes the tongue as a small part of the body, yet capable of setting “the whole course of one’s life on fire.” This passage underscores how words, especially slanderous ones, can have far-reaching and destructive effects.

On a spiritual level, slander is associated with the devil himself, who is called “the accuser of our brothers and sisters” in Revelation 12:10. To engage in slander is, in a sense, to align oneself with the adversary, rather than with God’s character of truth, mercy, and justice.

What Speech Qualifies as Slander?

According to the Bible, slander involves more than simply telling lies. It includes any speech that unjustly harms another’s reputation. This can take the form of:

• Outright falsehoods about someone
• Spreading damaging rumors without verifying the truth
• Twisting facts to portray someone negatively
• Malicious gossip intended to hurt

It is important to note that even if a statement contains some truth, if it is shared with the intent to damage or without love and discretion, it can still be considered slanderous. The Bible calls believers not only to speak truthfully but also to do so in love (Ephesians 4:15).

Guarding Against Slander

Scripture urges believers to be vigilant in guarding their tongues. James 1:26 warns, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” The Bible teaches that it is not enough to simply avoid falsehoods; Christians are called to speak in ways that build others up and reflect the character of Christ.

Practical steps to avoid slander include:

• Verifying information before sharing
• Refusing to participate in gossip
• Speaking directly to individuals about concerns, rather than about them to others
• Practicing forgiveness and seeking reconciliation rather than revenge

Conclusion

Slander is consistently condemned throughout the Bible as a serious sin that brings harm to both individuals and communities. It is more than just telling lies; it encompasses any speech that unjustly damages another’s reputation. The biblical standard calls for truthfulness, love, and restraint in our words, urging believers to use their speech to encourage and build up rather than to destroy.