Rebuking for Bad Behavior Judging Favorably Avoiding Revenge and Grudges Reprimanding When Offended Including the Poor and Lonely in Our Celebrations Treatment of the Convert Sensitivity to the Orphan, Widow, and Others Who Suffer Not Hurting or Embarrassing Anyone Human Dignity Honoring the Wise, the Elderly, and Community Leaders Not Belittling People Returning Lost Objects Providing Aid The Interpersonal is the Gateway to God The Inherent Worth of a Human Being Created in the Image of God Jews and Non-Jews Defining the Prohibition to Hate Defining the Mitzva to Love
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Protest

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Protest

Even if there is no chance the person being rebuked will listen, sometimes it is still necessary to take a stand. Even if the reproach will not be accepted, one’s words may have a long-term impact – if not on the sinner, then at least on others (who heard directly or indirectly about the confrontation). Therefore, if we see someone being cheated or humiliated, we must object even if we know the offender will pay no attention. However, after objecting, we do not need to say anything more. The Sages inform us (Yevamot 65b) that “Just as it is a mitzva to say something that will be accepted, so too it is a mitzva not to say something that will not be accepted.”

The Prohibition of Excessive Flattery The Prohibition of Excessive Flattery Negative Speech, Slander, and Gossip The Severity of Negative Speech When Speaking Badly of Someone is Permitted Journalists and Lashon Ha-Ra Media as Watchdogs Dispute vs. Disagreement for the Sake of Heaven Making Amends Telling the Truth Deception Lying to Preserve the Peace Other Times When Lying Is Permissible Do Not Covet Gratitude Sharing in Joy and in Sorrow Speaking Kindly Greeting Being Sensitive Derekh Eretz Speaking Coarsely Hospitality (Hachnasat Orchim) Being a Good Neighbor Being Part of a Good Community