In the end of Parshat Beha'alotcha we learn how Miriam-the-prophetess was punished for discussing her brother Moshe's life with her other brother; Aaron.
Miriam was punished with Tzara'at (something similar to leprosy), and she had to remain outside the Israelite camp for a week until she was cured.
The next Parsha - Shelach - starts with the sin of the spies who spoke evil about the Holy Land.
The Torah prohibits us from talebearing; telling one person what another person did, or what they said, or where they went.
Talebearing is forbidden even if the all the information is 100% true; the entire truth and nothing but the truth.
Talebearing is forbidden even if nothing derogatory is said.
An extreme example of the destructive power of talebearing is found in Shmuel-1 (Ch. 21 and 22).
Do'eg told King Saul that Achimelech had given [future King] David supplies and a sword.
Even though it was the truth - later Achimelech himself told King Saul about it - nevertheless King Saul ordered the city of Nov to be destroyed along with eighty five Cohanim and their families.
One can never know the consequences of passing along seemingly innocent information.
Source: Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 30:1
- Danny
Monday, 16 Sivan 5769
Please daven for a complete recovery for Tamar bat Naama - תמר בת נעמה
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