Slander about an Employee
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Question
Hello, I teach in a Talmud Torah, and the principal decided to organize a Shabbat gathering for all the teaching staff. One of the teachers, who is very charismatic and influential, is angry with the principal and told me personally that he plans to come to the Shabbat to ruin it. In his words, "to take the principal's soul out with a spoon." Should I inform the principal? Also, there is someone working in the secretariat who passes all information about the principal to this teacher, and he uses it maliciously. Should I inform the principal to be cautious of the secretary? How should I act?
Answer
Hello
The general rule is that it is permissible to speak negatively about another person if there is a benefit to doing so.
However, it is important to pay attention to all the conditions to permit it. For example: A. It must be clear to you that what the teacher is doing is wrong. B. You must have witnessed the story you are telling. C. Do not exaggerate or add interpretation to the event. D. No more harm should be caused to your friend than he deserves. E. You should first try to convince the teacher that he is acting improperly. [Or you should clearly assess that your words will not help]. F. It is impossible to achieve the same benefit without the story. [For example, to prevent him from attending this Shabbat, etc.]. G. All your intentions should be for the benefit, not for revenge against your friend or flattery to the principal, etc.
Source
Chafetz Chaim, Laws of Lashon Hara, Chapter 10