Insult - Curse?
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Question
Hello, Honorable Rabbi! Is saying an insulting word that defines a certain developmental level considered a curse that one would be punished for? (Shavuot 35, Makkot 8)? Thank you very much!
Answer
Hello,
one is not punished for a curse unless one curses their fellow using the name of God. However, one who curses their fellow even without mentioning the name of God transgresses a Torah prohibition.
In the case you mentioned, there is no prohibition of a curse. Because the prohibition of a curse is to wish something bad upon someone. But to tell them they are bad, or foolish, etc., is not a curse.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Choshen Mishpat, Siman 27, סעיף 1
One who curses a fellow Jew (and even curses oneself) (Tur), using a name or nickname or one of the names by which the nations call the Almighty, if it was in the presence of witnesses and warning, receives lashes.