We’ve all been hurt by words—and sometimes we’ve used them to hurt others. Whether it’s gossip, slander, or speaking out of frustration, talking badly about others can damage relationships, reputations, and even our own spiritual peace. But what does the Bible say about it?
Scripture speaks clearly on the impact of our speech. The Bible not only warns us against harmful talk but also encourages us to use our words to uplift, heal, and speak truth in love. These verses are filled with practical wisdom and spiritual insight that can help us reflect on how we use our voices.
In this post, we’ll explore 35 powerful Bible verses about talking bad about others. Each verse is followed by a short explanation to help you understand the deeper meaning and apply it to your life.
Let’s dive into God’s Word and discover how to speak life—not harm.
35 Bible Verses About Talking Bad About Others
1. Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
Explanation: This verse reminds us that our words have real consequences. Speaking badly about others can bring emotional harm, while kind words can give life and hope.
2. Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Explanation: Paul urges believers to use their words to encourage rather than tear down. Speaking ill of others contradicts our call to reflect God’s grace.
3. James 1:26
If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.
Explanation: Our words reveal the true state of our hearts. Speaking negatively about others can undermine the faith we claim to live by.
4. Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Explanation: Responding gently—even when provoked—can prevent conflict. Talking badly escalates tension rather than diffusing it.
5. Matthew 12:36
I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.
Explanation: Jesus warns that every word matters. Careless or harmful speech is not easily forgotten by God.
6. Colossians 3:8
But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.
Explanation: Slandering others is part of our old sinful nature. As believers, we’re called to put that behind us.
7. Proverbs 11:9
With his mouth the godless man would destroy his neighbor, but by knowledge the righteous are delivered.
Explanation: Words can be a weapon. The wise choose knowledge and righteousness over destructive speech.
8. James 3:6
And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.
Explanation: James illustrates the destructive power of the tongue. Unchecked speech can cause widespread damage.
9. Titus 3:2
To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
Explanation: Christians are called to speak kindly and respectfully, avoiding slander and conflict.
10. Proverbs 26:20
For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.
Explanation: Gossip fuels division. When we stop talking badly about others, peace has a chance to flourish.
11. Matthew 15:11
It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.
Explanation: Jesus points out that our words—more than our diets—reveal our moral character.
12. Psalm 34:13
Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.
Explanation: This verse encourages self-control and honesty, guarding our speech from harm.
13. Proverbs 21:23
Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.
Explanation: Wise speech helps us avoid unnecessary conflict and regret.
14. 1 Peter 3:10
For whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit.
Explanation: A peaceful and joyful life often starts with controlled, honest speech.
15. James 4:11
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law.
Explanation: Speaking against others breaks unity and undermines God’s law of love.
16. Leviticus 19:16
You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the Lord.
Explanation: God clearly forbids slander. Respecting others is part of living righteously.
17. Romans 1:29-30
They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness… gossips, slanderers, haters of God…
Explanation: Gossip and slander are listed among serious sins, showing how seriously God views harmful talk.
18. Proverbs 10:18
The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool.
Explanation: Slandering others reveals both foolishness and internal bitterness.
19. Psalm 101:5
Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly I will destroy. Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart I will not endure.
Explanation: God detests hidden malice and arrogant talk. He values humility and integrity.
20. Exodus 23:1
You shall not spread a false report. You shall not join hands with a wicked man to be a malicious witness.
Explanation: Spreading lies or half-truths about others is condemned outright.
21. Proverbs 16:28
A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.
Explanation: Gossip often leads to broken relationships. Honesty and silence can preserve friendships.
22. Psalm 141:3
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!
Explanation: This prayer asks God for help in controlling speech. It’s a wise step for anyone struggling with their words.
23. Proverbs 20:19
Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.
Explanation: Avoid those who talk badly about others—they can’t be trusted with your own words.
24. Galatians 5:15
But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.
Explanation: Constant criticism and harsh talk can destroy a community or relationship.
25. Job 5:21
You shall be hidden from the lash of the tongue, and shall not fear destruction when it comes.
Explanation: God promises protection from harmful speech. Trust in Him when others speak against you.
26. 2 Timothy 2:16
But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.
Explanation: Idle or careless speech can quickly lead to sin. Discipline in conversation matters.
27. Proverbs 12:18
There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Explanation: Words can wound or heal. Speak thoughtfully and bring peace.
28. Ecclesiastes 5:6
Let not your mouth lead you into sin, and do not say before the messenger that it was a mistake.
Explanation: Be careful what you say; once spoken, words can’t be taken back easily.
29. Isaiah 32:7
As for the scoundrel—his devices are evil; he plans wicked schemes to ruin the poor with lying words…
Explanation: Evil speech is often intentional and hurtful. God calls us to speak truth with love.
30. James 3:8
But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
Explanation: The tongue is powerful and dangerous without God’s help. We must depend on Him to speak rightly.
31. Proverbs 17:9
Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends.
Explanation: Repeating negative things about someone—even if true—can damage relationships.
32. 1 Timothy 5:13
Besides that, they learn to be idlers, going about from house to house, and not only idlers but also gossips and busybodies…
Explanation: Gossiping is seen as a sign of idleness and lack of purpose. It’s something to avoid.
33. Jeremiah 9:8
Their tongue is a deadly arrow; it speaks deceitfully; with his mouth each speaks peace to his neighbor, but in his heart he plans an ambush.
Explanation: Hypocrisy in speech is dangerous. God sees the heart behind every word.
34. Romans 12:18
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Explanation: Part of living in peace means avoiding negative speech that stirs conflict.
35. Matthew 5:11
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
Explanation: Even when others speak badly about us, Jesus promises blessing. Our response should reflect His character.
Final Thoughts
Talking bad about others is easy—but so is causing damage with our words. These 35 Bible verses about talking bad about others challenge us to think before we speak, to build others up, and to walk in God’s love and wisdom. When we speak with grace, truth, and kindness, we not only reflect Christ but also bless those around us.
Let this be your reminder: words are powerful. Let’s use them to heal, not harm.
What about you? Do you have a favorite Bible verse about the tongue or the power of words? Have you experienced the impact of gossip—either as the speaker or the one being spoken about? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below. We’d love to hear how God is working in your life through His Word.