Peace and blessings. We continue our study of the laws of manslaughter regarding the descendants of Noah, as included in Sefer Brit Shalom, chapter 5. Here, we are discussing proper conduct according to halacha, from paragraph 33 onward.
I also want to talk about a halacha that, at first glance, does not seem directly related to the laws of manslaughter, but in fact has much in common: the prohibition of Lashon Hara—speaking ill of someone.
What is Lashon Hara? It is when I say harmful things about my friend. I harm him through speech.
Since Lashon Hara is not an active physical act but only an act of the mouth, it is not formally included in the laws of the children of Noah. Yet we understand how serious it is. The Talmud says that speaking Lashon Hara is even more severe than sexual immorality, bloodshed, idolatry, and blasphemy—especially when considered together. So we understand how careful one must be not to use our words to harm another.
Here, in paragraph 33, it states that one must not speak negatively about any person, even if the statement is true, and certainly not if it is false. That is, if I say something untrue about someone, it is obviously serious—but even saying something true can be harmful. Why should I say it? Why should I publicize information about my friend that could cause him harm?
However, there are exceptions. Paragraph 34 allows sharing harmful actions of a wicked person in order to prevent further harm and to guide him back to the right path. Likewise, when it is necessary to evaluate a person’s suitability for a particular role, it is permitted to inquire about him.
For example, if I want to recruit someone for an important position, I want to know whether there is anything flawed in his character that could affect his ability to perform in that role. In that case, it is permitted—and similar situations can be extended in the same way.
I recommend that anyone interested in studying this topic consult Chafetz Chaim, who addressed these questions extensively regarding what may and may not be spoken.
