What constitutes evil speaking?

I. Definition and Scope

Evil speaking refers to words or expressions that carry malice, slander, false accusation, or any intent to harm another’s character or well-being. It includes gossip, backbiting, sowing discord, and cursing. While some might lump all negative speech under the banner of “evil,” Scripture nuances this term to highlight the spiritual condition of the speaker’s heart as well as the damaging effects on those who hear it.

Such language is not limited to secular contexts or unbelievers. The Bible addresses believers who wrestle with malicious talk, underscoring that the problem of evil speaking arises whenever the tongue is used contrary to its divinely intended purpose: to glorify God and build up others.

II. Biblical Terminology and Usage

1. Slander (Greek: “blasphēmia” or “diabolos”) – Often rendered “abusive speech,” “slander,” or “blasphemy,” depending on context. Ephesians 4:31 marks this as something to “get rid of, along with all bitterness, rage, and anger.”

2. Gossip (Greek: “psithurismos”) – A whispering or secret talk meant to undermine or harm someone’s reputation (Romans 1:29).

3. Backbiting (Greek: “katalalia”) – Speaking against someone behind their back, as echoed in James 4:11: “Brothers, do not slander one another…”

4. Reviling (Greek: “loidoria”) – Abusive remarks directed at someone, often with vehement or insulting language (1 Peter 2:23).

Throughout the New Testament, these terms appear in contexts that warn believers to guard their hearts and tongues. The Berean Standard Bible captures the essence of these admonitions with clear wording that underscores the seriousness of evil speech.

III. Heart Issues Behind Evil Speaking

At its core, evil speaking is not merely about the words themselves but about the motivations and desires that fuel them. Jesus taught: “For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). This underscores key spiritual realities:

• Pride – Elevating oneself by denigrating another through slander or insult.

• Anger – A heated temper that breaks forth in insulting or hurtful words.

• Jealousy and Envy – Tearing down the reputation of another to feel superior or more secure.

Because words mirror the condition of the heart, Scripture presents evil speech as a direct symptom of spiritual unrest or unrepentant sin within the speaker.

IV. Scriptural Admonitions Against Evil Speech

1. Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up… so that it may impart grace to those who hear.” This verse contrasts evil speaking with talk that “builds up.”

2. James 3:9–10 – Highlights the contradiction between blessing God and then cursing people made in His image: “My brothers, this should not be!”

3. Proverbs 6:16–19 – Lists things the LORD detests, including “a false witness who gives false testimony” and “one who stirs up discord among brothers.”

These passages stress that our words are neither inconsequential nor neutral. They can either encourage and testify to God’s glory or undermine and injure fellow image-bearers.

V. Examples from Scripture

1. Miriam and Aaron (Numbers 12:1–2) – They spoke against Moses, leading the LORD to judge Miriam with leprosy. This story emphasizes that speaking evil—even against a spiritual leader—brings serious consequences.

2. Job’s Friends (Job 22:5–10) – Their misguided accusations exemplify harmful discourse built on false assumptions.

3. The Accusations Against Jesus (Matthew 26:59–61) – False witnesses slandered Him before His crucifixion. This instance underscores how evil speaking can be weaponized against the innocent.

VI. Consequences of Evil Speaking

1. Fractured Relationships – Malicious words can sever friendships and bring strife within communities.

2. Personal Spiritual Harm – James 3:6 describes the tongue as “a world of wickedness,” warning how one’s speech can corrupt the entire course of life.

3. Divine Displeasure – As illustrated in Numbers 12, God takes note of speech that dishonors His name or harms His people.

VII. The Power and Responsibility of Speech

Scripture is consistent on this theme from Hebrew manuscripts, through the New Testament Greek texts preserved in numerous manuscript traditions. Archaeological discoveries, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, affirm how faithfully these warnings about speech have been transmitted over centuries. That consistent manuscript evidence highlights that admonitions against evil speaking are not a late addition; they reflect the unified biblical message across millennia.

From a broader perspective, recognizing the historical reliability of Scripture (supported by abundant manuscript witnesses and early church writings) underscores that these admonitions about speech carry divine authority. Studies in linguistics and psychology further confirm the transformative power of words—an observation consistent with biblical teachings that our speech can harm or heal.

VIII. Practical Guidance for Avoiding Evil Speaking

1. Guard the Heart – Regular prayer and self-examination: “Test me, O LORD… examine my heart and mind” (Psalm 26:2). A heart devoted to truth produces words in alignment with Scripture.

2. Slow to Speak – James 1:19 prescribes, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Pausing before responding can prevent the outburst of harmful language.

3. Encourage and Correct Gently – Ephesians 4:15 promotes speaking the truth in love. This fosters correction without descending into slander.

4. Meditate on God’s Word – Memorizing passages that highlight wholesome speech recalibrates the mind toward gracious words.

IX. Restoration After Evil Speaking

When evil speaking occurs, Scripture calls for confession and a willingness to seek forgiveness (1 John 1:9). The path to reconciliation often involves:

• Repentance to God – Recognizing words spoken against His will.

• Confession to Those Wronged – Apologizing openly to reconcile personal relationships.

• Active Steps to Prevent a Recurrence – Becoming mindful of personal triggers and renewing the mind (Romans 12:2).

X. Conclusion

Evil speaking represents a departure from the Creator’s intent for human communication. Rather than sowing discord or tearing others down, Scripture calls believers to use their tongue for truth, love, and encouragement. Supported by manuscript evidence across centuries and affirmed by studies in human behavior, the Bible’s consistent teaching underscores that words have lasting spiritual and moral significance.

Those seeking to honor the divine purpose for speech guard their hearts, considering every word a reflection of their worship to God. Upholding the unity of Scripture, the reality of an eternal God, and the life-transforming truth of the resurrected Christ, believers are reminded that their words can either hinder or affirm the very message they profess.