The Hebrew word translated “gossip,” lashon ha-ra, in the Old Testament is defined as “one who reveals secrets, a familiar trader, one who goes about as a talebearer or scandal-monger.” A gossiper is a person who has privileged information about people and proceeds to reveal that information to those who have no business knowing it. In fact, studies show that gossipers typically gossip to those who gossip.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drstephenphinney.substack.com/subscribe