Lesson 1 - Faulty Character Traits - cont’d.
We said that its considered lashon hora to talk about someone elses negative character traits (i.e. anger, laziness). This is because its very likely that the person IS NOT aware of the seriousness of their actions. The proper approach to deal with this is to speak to the person directly and sensitively explain what is wrong with that trait. This way you can be helping out the person instead of harming them.
Lesson 2 -Relating Faults in Order to Prevent Imitation
If a person sees faulty characteristics in someone (i.e. a bad temper) and worries that their children or students might learn and imitate those traits, it is proper to warn them to keep away. If your intention is to make others aware and warn them to not follow someone with negative traits - you are permitted and it is considered it is a positive thing.The prohibition is about words being said to belittle and discrace the person being spoken about. (to be continued).
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Lashon Hora = Saying a derogatory/negative statement about someone else that is TRUE
Motzi Shaim Ra (Defamation of Character) = Saying a derogatory statement that is FALSE
For Wednesday May 21, 2008
Important Numbers
