Topical Bible: Slander: Jews

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Slander, as a concept, is addressed multiple times in the Bible, often highlighting the moral and ethical implications of false accusations and malicious speech. Within the context of the Jewish people, slander has played a significant role throughout biblical history, affecting both individuals and the nation as a whole.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Jewish people, as God's chosen nation, often faced slander from surrounding nations. This is evident in the account of Nehemiah, where adversaries attempted to undermine the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls through false accusations. Nehemiah 6:6-7 records a letter accusing the Jews of rebellion: "It is reported among the nations—and Geshem agrees—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and therefore you are rebuilding the wall. According to these reports, you are about to become their king."

The Psalms also reflect the anguish of slander against the righteous, often attributed to the enemies of Israel. Psalm 31:13 states, "For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side. They conspire against me and plot to take my life." This verse captures the personal and communal distress caused by slanderous attacks.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, slander against the Jewish people continues, particularly in the context of early Christian communities. The Apostle Paul, a Jew himself, frequently faced slander from both Jewish and Gentile opponents. In Acts 24:5 , Paul is accused before Felix: "We have found this man to be a pestilence, stirring up dissension among Jews all over the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes."

The early Christians, many of whom were Jewish, were often slandered by those who opposed the spread of the Gospel. Revelation 2:9 addresses the church in Smyrna, acknowledging the slander they faced: "I know your afflictions and your poverty—though you are rich! And I am aware of the slander of those who falsely claim to be Jews but are in fact a synagogue of Satan."

Moral and Ethical Implications

The Bible consistently condemns slander as a sin, emphasizing the importance of truth and integrity. Proverbs 10:18 warns, "The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool." The Jewish people, as recipients of God's covenant, were called to uphold these values, serving as a light to the nations.

The Ninth Commandment, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16), underscores the prohibition against slander. This commandment is foundational to the ethical teachings of both Judaism and Christianity, highlighting the destructive power of false testimony.

Historical and Theological Significance

Throughout history, the Jewish people have often been targets of slander, leading to persecution and suffering. This pattern is seen in biblical narratives and has continued into modern times. Theologically, slander against the Jews can be understood as part of the broader spiritual battle against God's purposes and His chosen people.

The Bible calls believers to reject slander and to speak truth in love, reflecting the character of God. Ephesians 4:31 instructs, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice." This directive applies to all, emphasizing the call to live in righteousness and peace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 11:18,19
For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He has a devil.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

In the Next Place, as it is his Object to Slander Our Scriptures.. ...
... In the next place, as it is his object to slander our Scriptures ... allegorically, although
he says afterwards, that "the more modest among Jews and Christians are ...
/.../origen/origen against celsus/chapter xxxviii in the next.htm

And I Remember on one Occasion, at a Disputation Held with Certain ...
... And I remember on one occasion, at a disputation held with certain Jews who were ...
is to be believed as speaking the truth, although the Egyptians slander him as ...
/.../origen/origen against celsus/chapter xlv and i remember.htm

The Folly of Slander. Part 2.
... man, to design or procure any mischief to our neighbour, whom even Jews were commanded ...
opinion will stick in the minds of those who have given ear to slander. ...
/.../barrow/sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/the folly of slander part 2.htm

The Folly of Slander. Part 1.
... 9. Another kind of slander is, imputing to our neighbour's practice, judgment, or ...
of piety, Elias: "Art thou he that troubleth Israel?" The Jews by provocation ...
/.../barrow/sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/the folly of slander part.htm

Concerning the Pharisees and Scribes who came and Inquired, Why do ...
... in appearance against the disciples, but in reality purposing to slander their Teacher ...
according to the tradition of the elders among the Jews, but according to ...
/.../origens commentary on the gospel of matthew/8 concerning the pharisees and.htm

In the Next Place, as if it were the Christians whom He was ...
... who gave inspiration [4435] to their prophets; and, again, you slander Him! ... Celsus
distinctly slanders the Christians, asserting that, when the Jews press them ...
/.../origen/origen against celsus/chapter xxix in the next.htm

History of the Septuagint.
... we should give occasion to those who wish to slander us to charge us with fraud,
we demand that they be produced from the synagogue of the Jews, that from the ...
/.../chapter xiii history of the septuagint.htm

John ix. 6, 7
... Because the slander was now become great, and the Jews had said, "Behold what work
Jesus doth on the Sabbath day, he anointeth with clay!" But observe, I pray ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily lvii john ix 6.htm

The World Turned Upside Down
... We believe that what these Jews said of the Apostles, was just a downright wilful
lie ... touched, if a harsh word be spoken against him, or one slander uttered he ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 4 1858/the world turned upside down.htm

General Index
... Sabbath of the Jews . . . . . 88 Sacramental grace . . . . . ... 321 Slander . . . . . ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kinkead/baltimore catechism no 4/general index.htm