12 Bible Verses About Gossip

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
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Bible verses about gossip

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about gossip:

1. Proverbs 16:28 – “A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”
2. Proverbs 11:13 – “A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.”
3. Proverbs 20:19 – “He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.”
4. Leviticus 19:16 – “Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the Lord.”
5. Proverbs 18:8 – “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.”
6. Proverbs 26:20 – “Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.”

7. James 4:11 – “Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.”

8. Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”

9. Proverbs 10:18 – “He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.”

10. Proverbs 17:9 – “He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.”

11. Proverbs 26:22 – “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.”

12. 1 Timothy 5:13 – “And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.”

What does the bible say about gossip?

The Bible warns against gossip, emphasizing the harm it can cause to relationships and reputations.

It teaches that gossip can be destructive and hurtful, spreading falsehoods and causing division among people.

The Bible encourages believers to speak truthfully, with love and kindness, and to avoid spreading rumors or speaking ill of others.

It emphasizes the importance of guarding one’s words and using them to build others up rather than tear them down.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that gossip is a sin and should be avoided in order to maintain healthy and loving relationships with others.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about gossip?

1. Proverbs 11 – This chapter discusses the importance of integrity and honesty in our words and actions. It also warns against spreading gossip and the harm it can cause to others.

2. Proverbs 16 – This chapter emphasizes the importance of controlling our tongues and speaking words of wisdom and kindness. It also warns against spreading rumors and gossip.

3. James 3 – This chapter talks about the power of the tongue and the importance of controlling our speech. It warns against the destructive nature of gossip and the harm it can cause to relationships.

Reading these chapters can provide valuable insights into the negative effects of gossip and the importance of speaking words of truth and kindness. It can also serve as a reminder to be mindful of the impact our words can have on others.

Ideas and concepts related to gossip that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Slander: Slander is making false and damaging statements about someone. The Bible warns against slander in multiple verses, such as Proverbs 10:18 which states, “Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.” Slander is closely related to gossip as both involve spreading harmful information about others.

2. Bearing False Witness: Bearing false witness is giving false testimony or spreading lies about someone. This concept is mentioned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:16) and is also condemned in Proverbs 19:5, “A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free.” Gossip often involves bearing false witness by spreading rumors or lies about others.

3. Taming the Tongue: The Bible frequently emphasizes the power of words and the importance of controlling one’s speech. James 3:5-6 states, “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.” Gossip can be harmful and destructive, highlighting the need to tame the tongue and speak words of kindness and truth.

4. Love Your Neighbor: The Bible teaches the importance of loving others and treating them with kindness and respect. Gossip goes against this principle by spreading harmful information about others and causing division. In Matthew 22:39, Jesus commands his followers to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Gossiping about others is not showing love or respect for them.

Overall, the Bible condemns gossip and related concepts such as slander, bearing false witness, and uncontrolled speech. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully, loving others, and treating them with kindness and respect.


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Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.