Lashon hara
Question
What are the obligations of a Jew to a non-Jew regarding lashon harah?
Answer
Shalom!
Thank you for your question.
According to the letter of the law, the prohibition of lashon hara does not apply to speaking lashon hara about gentiles. This is based on the wording of the verse against lashon hara which says “do not spread slander among your nation” which clearly refers to lashon hara being forbidden among Jews.
Nevertheless, the sages teach us that one should not speak lashon hara even when technically permitted so as not to accustom ourselves to this very bad habit.
See Azamroh Lishmech issue #290
Source
Midrash, Ki Teitzei, 6
Comments
Have an additional question on this topic or need clarification? Leave your comment below. (Please note that the comment will not be published but will be sent directly to the answering Rabbi for review and a private response)
Become our patrners in supporting and spreading the Torah
Help us answer more questions faster and better
Join the mission

Your Weekly Torah Connection
Add meaning to your week with:
- Top halachic Q&A
- Practical festival halachot