Topical Encyclopedia
Defamation of character, understood as the act of making false statements about a person that injure their reputation, is addressed in various ways throughout the Bible. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of truthfulness and the severe consequences of bearing false witness against others.
Biblical Injunctions Against DefamationThe Ninth Commandment explicitly prohibits false testimony: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (
Exodus 20:16). This command underscores the value God places on truth and the protection of one's reputation. Defamation, as a form of false witness, is thus directly opposed to God's law.
Consequences of DefamationThe Bible provides several examples and teachings on the consequences of defamation. In
Deuteronomy 19:16-19, the law prescribes a specific punishment for false witnesses: "If a false witness testifies against someone, accusing him of a crime, both parties to the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD, before the priests and judges who are in office at that time. The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother, you must do to him as he intended to do to his brother. You must purge the evil from among you" . This passage highlights the principle of retributive justice, where the false accuser faces the same penalty they sought for the accused.
Examples of Defamation and Its Punishment1.
Naboth's Vineyard: In
1 Kings 21, Queen Jezebel orchestrates a plot to defame Naboth by hiring false witnesses to accuse him of blasphemy, leading to his unjust execution. This act of defamation results in severe divine judgment upon Ahab's household, demonstrating God's disapproval of such deceitful actions.
2.
Jesus Before the Sanhedrin: In the New Testament, Jesus Himself is subjected to false accusations.
Mark 14:56-59 recounts how false witnesses were brought against Him, yet their testimonies did not agree. Despite the false charges, Jesus' resurrection and ultimate vindication serve as a testament to God's justice.
Teachings of Wisdom LiteratureThe Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the issue of defamation and the use of the tongue.
Proverbs 6:16-19 lists "a false witness who pours out lies" among the things the Lord detests.
Proverbs 19:5 warns, "A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape" . These verses reflect the moral order established by God, where truth is upheld, and deceit is condemned.
New Testament AdmonitionsThe New Testament continues to uphold the principles against defamation.
Ephesians 4:25 instructs believers: "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body" .
James 4:11 further admonishes, "Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it" . These teachings emphasize the unity and integrity expected within the Christian community.
In summary, the Bible consistently condemns defamation of character, prescribing both divine and communal consequences for such actions. The Scriptures call for truthfulness and integrity, reflecting God's own nature and His desire for justice among His people.
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Deuteronomy 22:13-19If any man take a wife, and go in to her, and hate her,
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Resources
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