12 Bible Verses About Talking Bad About Others

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Bible verses about talking bad about others

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about talking bad about others:

1. Proverbs 16:28 – “A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”
2. Proverbs 20:19 – “He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.”
3. 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.”
4. 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.”
5. Proverbs 10:18 – “He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.”
6. Proverbs 25:23 – “The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.”

7. Proverbs 11:13 – “A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.”
8. Proverbs 17:9 – “He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.”
9. 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.”
10. Romans 1:30 – “Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents.”
11. 1 Peter 2:1 – “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings.”
12. Matthew 7:1-2 – “Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.”

What does the bible say about talking bad about others?

The Bible teaches that speaking negatively about others is harmful and should be avoided.

It emphasizes the importance of using our words to build others up and show love and kindness.

Gossip, slander, and malicious speech are all condemned in the Bible, as they can cause division, hurt relationships, and damage reputations.

Instead, the Bible encourages us to speak truthfully, with grace and compassion, and to treat others with respect and dignity.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that our words have the power to either bring life or death, and we should strive to use them wisely and for good.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about talking bad about others?

1. Proverbs 6 – This chapter warns against the consequences of spreading gossip and stirring up conflict among others. It emphasizes the importance of guarding our words and refraining from speaking negatively about others.

2. James 3 – This chapter discusses the power of the tongue and the importance of controlling our speech. It highlights the potential harm that can be caused by speaking negatively about others and emphasizes the need for wisdom and self-control in our communication.

3. Ephesians 4 – This chapter emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully and building others up with our words. It encourages believers to put away harmful speech such as gossip, slander, and bitterness, and instead to speak words of kindness and encouragement.

Reading these chapters can provide valuable insights and guidance on the importance of guarding our words and refraining from speaking negatively about others. They emphasize the impact of our speech on others and the importance of using our words to build up rather than tear down.

Ideas and concepts related to talking bad about others that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Gossiping: The Bible warns against gossiping, which involves spreading rumors or talking negatively about others behind their backs. Proverbs 16:28 states, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” Gossiping can harm relationships and damage reputations, just like talking bad about others.

2. Slander: Slander involves making false or damaging statements about someone with the intent to harm their reputation. The Bible condemns slander in passages such as Psalm 101:5, which says, “Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence.” Slander is a form of speaking ill of others that can have serious consequences.

3. Judging others: The Bible teaches that we should not judge others, as only God has the right to judge. Matthew 7:1-2 says, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged.” Talking bad about others often involves passing judgment on them, which goes against the teachings of the Bible.

Overall, the concepts of gossiping, slander, and judging others are related to talking bad about others in that they all involve speaking negatively about someone else. The Bible warns against engaging in these behaviors, as they can harm relationships, damage reputations, and go against the principles of love and respect for others.

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.