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    In Context

    What Does the Bible Say About Gossip — In Biblical Context

    The Bible strongly condemns gossip as destructive, comparing it to a fire that destroys relationships and communities.

    Quick Answer

    The Bible strongly condemns gossip as destructive, comparing it to a fire that destroys relationships and communities.

    "A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends." — Proverbs 16:28 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    Scripture repeatedly warns against gossip and slander. Proverbs 16:28 says 'A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.' Proverbs 26:20 teaches that without gossip, strife ceases — 'Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.' Paul lists gossip among serious sins (Romans 1:29-30) and warns about idle busybodies (1 Timothy 5:13). James compares the tongue to a small fire that sets a great forest ablaze (James 3:5-6). The remedy is speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), using words to build up rather than tear down (Ephesians 4:29), and addressing issues directly with the person involved (Matthew 18:15).

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Proverbs 16:28, sits inside Proverbs 16. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends."
    — Proverbs 16:28 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    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."

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