Calling people by nicknames

Question

Why is it frowned upon to call people by nicknames

Answer

In many instances, referring to an individual by their nickname can be considered demeaning. Such an address may imply a level of intimacy that is inappropriate, especially when the individuals are not related.

There are instances where using a nickname is expressly prohibited, particularly when the nickname is offensive or degrading. It is believed that individuals who engage in giving degrading nicknames may face severe consequences, as indicated by the saying that they will never ascend from Gehinom.


Source


  Bava Metzia  58b

‘All those who descend to Gehinom ascend from it except for three categories of people who descend and never ascend. Among them are those who give others degrading nicknames'.



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 (Please note that the comment will not be published but will be sent directly to the answering Rabbi for review and a private response)

Please sign up or log in to submit your comment

Become our patrners in supporting and spreading the Torah
Help us answer more questions faster and better
Join the mission
More questions in this category
Beis ha-Mikdash
Conversion to Judaism
Conversion to Judaism