Gossip

Idle talk which foolishly or maliciously spreads rumours or facts. The effects of gossiping are divisive and destructive.

Examples of gossiping

Nehemiah 6:5–8 False rumours were used to intimidate Nehemiah; Psalm 41:5–8; John 7:12–13; 3 John 1:9–10

Dangers of talking too much

Proverbs 10:19 See also Proverbs 18:6–7, Proverbs 21:23, Proverbs 29:11; Ecclesiastes 5:2–3; Matthew 12:36–37

When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.

Gossip can result from idleness

1 Timothy 5:13

At the same time they will also learn to be idle, going from house to house and being not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies, discussing things they should not mention.

Gossip has disastrous effects

Proverbs 16:28 See also Proverbs 11:13, Proverbs 17:9, Proverbs 25:9–10, Proverbs 26:20

A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip divides close friends.

Gossiping condemned and forbidden

Leviticus 19:16 See also Exodus 23:1; Psalm 101:5; Proverbs 10:18; Romans 1:29–30; 2 Corinthians 12:20

You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD.

Advice on avoiding gossip

Psalm 141:3 See also Proverbs 20:19

Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.